Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cottonwood, CA
Considering a move to Cottonwood, CA? This small town of about 6,300 residents offers affordable living with a median home price of $355,000 and rents averaging $1,275. Enjoy over 70% sunny days, short 27-minute commutes, and a relaxed rural vibe. While crime rates are moderate for the region, local schools and access to healthcare in nearby Redding add to Cottonwood's appeal. Cottonwood is a great fit if you’re seeking friendly neighborhoods, warm weather, and a slower pace of life.
Demographics - Cottonwood, CA
Demographics - Cottonwood, CA
Cottonwood is a small community of about 6,300 people, with a median age of nearly 40 and a balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White, with a modest mix of other backgrounds and around 8.5% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density gives the town a comfortable, close-knit feel.
Population:
6,300
Density:
1,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.8
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
82.5%
Black:
1.1%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
14.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cottonwood, CA?
Living in Cottonwood is relatively affordable, with the median home value at $355,000 and average rents around $1,275 per month. While utility costs are slightly above national averages, overall expenses are in line with the U.S. average, making this an appealing option for those seeking value in Northern California. State taxes vary widely, but day-to-day costs like groceries and healthcare remain reasonable.
Median House Value:
$355,000
Gross Rent:
$1,275
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$185
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,825
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$525
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
100.7
Grocery:
103.0
Housing:
98.5
Utilities:
112.0
Transportation:
99.0
Health Care:
105.0
Miscellaneous:
101.0
Crime
Is Cottonwood, CA a safe place to live?
Cottonwood experiences moderate crime rates for the region, with a 1 in 345 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 48 chance of property crime. While these figures are important to consider, the community maintains a generally safe and welcoming atmosphere. Residents typically enjoy a sense of security in everyday life.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
290
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,390
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 345
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Cottonwood, CA year-round?
Cottonwood enjoys a classic Northern California climate, featuring warm, dry summers with highs near 97°F and mild winters averaging 56°F. The area receives about 29 inches of rain annually and boasts roughly 71% sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate abundant sunshine and outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
35°F
Max:
56°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
97°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
29 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
71%
Neighbors
Residents of Cottonwood have a median household income of about $54,700, and the area has a poverty rate of 15.2%. Most neighbors commute less than 30 minutes to work, and the community is characterized by a high rate of homeownership and strong local ties. Educational attainment is solid, with over 85% holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$32,100
Household Income:
$54,700
Family Income:
$62,200
Per Capita Income:
$23,800
Income Male:
$39,200
Income Female:
$30,700
Poverty Rate:
15.2%
Non English Speakers:
8.5%
Rent:
$1,275
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
26.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.4%
Bachelors or More:
17.6%
Education
How are the schools in Cottonwood, CA?
Cottonwood offers a selection of public and private schools, with local options like West Cottonwood Junior High and North Cottonwood School providing education in a community-focused environment. Class sizes are moderate, and families also benefit from proximity to Shasta College, just 17 miles away in Redding. The area’s educational resources support learners from kindergarten through higher education.
Public Schools
Name:
West Cottonwood Junior High School
Street:
20512 1st St
Phone:
530-347-3123
Students:
310
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.5
Name:
North Cottonwood School
Street:
19920 Gas Point Rd
Phone:
530-347-1698
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.8
Private Schools
Name:
Cottonwood Creek Charter School
Street:
3425 Brush St
Phone:
530-347-7200
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
Shasta College
City:
Redding
State:
CA
Distance:
17 miles
Students:
8,400
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is convenient, with major hospitals like Mercy Medical Center and Shasta Regional Medical Center located in nearby Redding. The community benefits from 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, ensuring residents are well-supported for medical needs. Overall healthcare quality is dependable for a town of Cottonwood’s size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mercy Medical Center Redding
Address:
2175 Rosaline Ave, Redding, CA 96001
Phone:
(530) 225-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Shasta Regional Medical Center
Address:
1100 Butte St, Redding, CA 96001
Phone:
(530) 244-5400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.9%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cottonwood, CA?
Cottonwood's housing market is stable, with a median home price of $355,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of over 70%. Rental options are available, with two-bedroom units averaging $1,275, and the market has seen a modest appreciation rate of 3.1% in the past year. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates suggest a healthy, balanced real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$355,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,275
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Cottonwood residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles office in Redding, located at 2135 Civic Center Dr. The DMV provides all standard vehicle and licensing services, with easy access for local drivers. More information and online services can be found on the state DMV website.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2135 Civic Center Dr, Redding, CA 96001
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.