Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Carlsbad, CA
Thinking about moving to Carlsbad, CA? With a population of around 116,000, Carlsbad offers beautiful weather year-round (72% sunny days), top-rated schools, and a highly educated, affluent community. The median home price is $1.14M and rents average $2,900, reflecting the city’s premium coastal location. Crime rates are low (101 violent crimes per 100K), and most residents enjoy short 28-minute commutes. Explore Carlsbad’s excellent healthcare, vibrant neighborhoods, and laid-back beach lifestyle below to plan your move with confidence.
Demographics - Carlsbad, CA
Demographics - Carlsbad, CA
Carlsbad is home to approximately 116,000 residents, with a median age of 42.1, reflecting a mature and established community. The city is predominantly White (74%), but also includes Asian, Black, and other minority groups, contributing to a diverse and welcoming environment. Around one in five residents speak a language other than English at home, adding to the city's rich cultural fabric.
Population:
115,834
Density:
3,110 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
19.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
74.2%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
10.1%
Others:
14.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Carlsbad, CA?
Living in Carlsbad comes with a higher price tag, as the cost of living index is 64% above the national average. The median home value is $1,140,000 and average rent is $2,900, underscoring the city's desirable coastal setting. Everyday expenses, including groceries and utilities, tend to be above average, making Carlsbad ideal for those seeking an upscale lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$1,140,000
Gross Rent:
$2,900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,980
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,880
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$880
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
164.2
Grocery:
126.7
Housing:
263.1
Utilities:
102.9
Transportation:
136.0
Health Care:
110.3
Miscellaneous:
112.7
Crime
Is Carlsbad, CA a safe place to live?
Carlsbad boasts a low crime rate, with only 101 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 990 chance of being a victim, making it one of the safer cities in Southern California. Property crime rates are also relatively low compared to urban areas, providing peace of mind for families and newcomers. This safe environment is a key attraction for those considering a move to the area.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
101
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,475
Crime Index:
1,576
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 990
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 68
Weather
What is the weather like in Carlsbad, CA year-round?
Carlsbad enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with summer highs averaging 76°F and winter lows rarely dipping below 44°F. The city experiences about 72% sunny days each year and receives around 11.5 inches of rainfall annually, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents benefit from comfortable weather year-round, ideal for beachside living and recreation.
Winter
Min:
44°F
Max:
64°F
Spring
Min:
53°F
Max:
71°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
76°F
Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
11.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
72%
Neighbors
Carlsbad's residents enjoy a high quality of life, with a median household income of $126,200 and a low poverty rate of 5.2%. Most adults hold at least a high school diploma, and over half have a bachelor's degree or higher, reflecting a well-educated population. The city maintains low unemployment, short average commute times, and a strong sense of community.
Median Income:
$54,200
Household Income:
$126,200
Family Income:
$142,100
Per Capita Income:
$65,400
Income Male:
$72,500
Income Female:
$59,300
Poverty Rate:
5.2%
Non English Speakers:
19.4%
Rent:
$2,900
Unemployment Rate:
3.4%
Public Transport Usage:
1.5%
Commute Time:
28.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.7%
Bachelors or More:
57.4%
Education
How are the schools in Carlsbad, CA?
Carlsbad offers strong educational opportunities, with highly rated public schools like Carlsbad High School and Aviara Oaks Middle School. Several private schools and access to nearby colleges, such as MiraCosta College and California State University San Marcos, provide options for continued learning. The city's schools are known for high graduation rates and a commitment to academic excellence.
Public Schools
Name:
Carlsbad High School
Street:
3557 Monroe St
Phone:
760-331-5100
Students:
2,300
Student Teacher Ratio:
24:1
Name:
Aviara Oaks Middle School
Street:
6880 Ambrosia Ln
Phone:
760-331-6000
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
25:1
Private Schools
Name:
Pacific Ridge School
Street:
6269 El Fuerte St
Phone:
760-448-9820
Students:
650
Colleges
Name:
MiraCosta College
City:
Oceanside
State:
CA
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
13,000
Name:
California State University San Marcos
City:
San Marcos
State:
CA
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
16,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Carlsbad is excellent, with major hospitals nearby and 93.8% of residents having health insurance coverage. There are 3.2 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring timely access to medical care. The area's healthcare index is strong, providing peace of mind for individuals and families.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas
Address:
354 Santa Fe Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024
Phone:
(760) 633-6501
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Tri-City Medical Center
Address:
4002 Vista Way, Oceanside, CA 92056
Phone:
(760) 724-8411
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
76.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Carlsbad, CA?
Carlsbad's housing market is robust, with a median home price of $1,140,000 and most residents owning their homes. Rental vacancy rates are low at 3.1%, and home values have appreciated by over 7% in the past year, indicating a competitive and desirable real estate market. The area is attractive for both buyers and renters seeking long-term investment and stability.
Median Home Price:
$1,140,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,900
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Carlsbad residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles branch in nearby San Marcos, which provides comprehensive vehicle registration and licensing services. The office is conveniently located and accessible for all standard DMV needs. For more information or to schedule appointments, residents can visit the official California DMV website.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
590 Rancheros Dr, San Marcos, CA 92069
Phone:
1-800-777-0133
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.