Everything You Should Know Before Moving to China Lake, CA
Thinking of moving to China Lake, CA? This small desert community of about 1,735 offers affordable home prices around $275,000 and rents near $1,150. Residents enjoy very sunny weather, quick 13-minute commutes, and a laid-back atmosphere. Crime rates are low, with a violent crime rate of 250 per 100K, and local schools are served by neighboring Ridgecrest. Great for those seeking a quieter lifestyle with the perks of the California desert climate.
Demographics - China Lake, CA
Demographics - China Lake, CA
China Lake is a small desert community with a population of about 1,735, featuring a median age of 36 and a slightly higher proportion of males. The area is predominantly White, with notable diversity and 12% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its low population density offers a quiet and spacious environment for newcomers.
Population:
1,735
Density:
45 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.2
Gender Ratio:
106 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
12.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
72.5%
Black:
6.2%
Asian:
5.1%
Others:
16.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in China Lake, CA?
The cost of living in China Lake is just above the national average, with a median home value of $275,000 and average rent around $1,150. Housing is relatively affordable compared to much of California, though utilities and healthcare costs are slightly higher. Residents benefit from moderate state taxes and reasonable monthly homeowner expenses.
Median House Value:
$275,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$165
Auto Insurance:
$1,650
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,475
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
102.5
Grocery:
101.2
Housing:
90.8
Utilities:
112.2
Transportation:
99.5
Health Care:
107.0
Miscellaneous:
104.5
Crime
Is China Lake, CA a safe place to live?
China Lake experiences low crime, with a violent crime rate of 250 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 1,200 per 100,000. This means residents have a 1 in 400 chance of being affected by violent crime, contributing to a sense of safety in the area. The community’s tranquil setting is ideal for those seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
250
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,200
Crime Index:
1,450
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 400
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 83
Weather
What is the weather like in China Lake, CA year-round?
Residents of China Lake enjoy an arid desert climate with over 86% sunny days each year, mild winters averaging 32–60°F, and hot summers reaching up to 103°F. The area receives minimal rainfall, just 4.6 inches annually, making it perfect for those who appreciate plenty of sunshine. Seasonal temperature shifts offer distinct changes without the extremes of coastal California.
Winter
Min:
32°F
Max:
60°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
103°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
4.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
86%
Neighbors
China Lake households have a median income of $87,500 and a per capita income near $39,800, with an 11.5% poverty rate. Most residents have at least a high school education, and commute times are short, averaging just 13.5 minutes. The community is primarily English-speaking, with only a small fraction using public transportation.
Median Income:
$49,000
Household Income:
$87,500
Family Income:
$99,000
Per Capita Income:
$39,800
Income Male:
$54,600
Income Female:
$44,700
Poverty Rate:
11.5%
Non English Speakers:
12.0%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
5.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
13.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.8%
Bachelors or More:
38.5%
Education
How are the schools in China Lake, CA?
Education in China Lake is supported by nearby Ridgecrest schools, including Gateway Elementary and James Monroe Middle School, both offering a strong student-teacher environment. Families have access to private options like Immanuel Christian School, and higher education is available just 2 miles away at Cerro Coso Community College. The area provides quality educational opportunities for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Gateway Elementary School
Street:
501 S. Gateway Blvd, Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Phone:
760-499-1850
Students:
550
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.1
Name:
James Monroe Middle School
Street:
340 W Church Ave, Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Phone:
760-499-1830
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.5
Private Schools
Name:
Immanuel Christian School
Street:
1201 N China Lake Blvd, Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Phone:
760-446-6114
Students:
180
Colleges
Name:
Cerro Coso Community College
City:
Ridgecrest
State:
CA
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
4,500
Healthcare
Local healthcare is anchored by Ridgecrest Regional Hospital, providing general and emergency services nearby. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 92% health insurance coverage, medical care is accessible for most. The healthcare index indicates a solid standard of care for a small community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Ridgecrest Regional Hospital
Address:
1081 N China Lake Blvd, Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Phone:
(760) 446-3551
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.7%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in China Lake, CA?
The median home price in China Lake is $275,000, and about 60% of homes are owner-occupied, reflecting stable homeownership. Rental options remain affordable with average two-bedroom rents at $1,150, and the community sees low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Modest home appreciation and limited new construction contribute to a steady housing market.
Median Home Price:
$275,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
China Lake residents are served by the California DMV office located on China Lake Blvd in nearby Ridgecrest. Services include licensing, registration, and vehicle-related needs, with convenient access for locals. The office provides a comprehensive resource for all motor vehicle requirements.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1030 China Lake Blvd, Ridgecrest, CA 93555
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.