Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cuyama, CA
Thinking of moving to Cuyama, CA? With a small, close-knit population of about 710 and affordable median home prices around $255,000, Cuyama offers rural charm and abundant sunshine—83% of days are sunny each year. The cost of living is below the California average, and residents enjoy short commute times and a peaceful pace. While amenities are limited and the high school graduation rate is lower than the state average, you'll find a welcoming agricultural community surrounded by scenic vistas, with basic shopping and healthcare services a short drive away.
Demographics - Cuyama, CA
Demographics - Cuyama, CA
Cuyama is a small, rural town with a population of 710 and a median age of 34.6 years. The community is diverse, with nearly half of residents speaking a language other than English at home and a significant portion identifying with ethnicities other than white. The area features a fairly balanced gender ratio and a low population density, offering a quiet, close-knit atmosphere.
Population:
710
Density:
40 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.6
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
48.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
38.0%
Black:
0.8%
Asian:
2.2%
Others:
59.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cuyama, CA?
The cost of living in Cuyama is slightly below the national average, with a median home value of $255,000 and average rent around $1,050 per month. Utilities and transportation costs are modest, making it an affordable choice for those seeking a rural lifestyle. State income taxes range widely, but overall expenses remain manageable compared to other California locations.
Median House Value:
$255,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,530
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.0
Grocery:
101.0
Housing:
92.0
Utilities:
108.0
Transportation:
110.0
Health Care:
104.0
Miscellaneous:
102.0
Crime
Is Cuyama, CA a safe place to live?
Cuyama experiences relatively low crime rates compared to urban centers, with a violent crime rate of 290 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,420 per 100,000. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 345, contributing to a generally safe and tranquil environment. Residents enjoy a sense of security in this small community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
290
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,420
Crime Index:
1,710
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 345
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Cuyama, CA year-round?
Residents of Cuyama enjoy a sunny climate with 83% of days filled with sunshine each year and mild seasonal changes. Summers are warm, with highs reaching the mid-90s, while winters remain cool but rarely freezing. The area receives about 8 inches of rainfall annually, making it ideal for those who appreciate dry, bright weather.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
62°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
73°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
94°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
8.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
83%
Neighbors
Cuyama is home to a tight-knit, hardworking community with a median household income of $44,200 and a poverty rate of 21.5%. Most residents commute about 28 minutes for work, and nearly half speak a language other than English at home. The area has a modest educational attainment rate and low public transportation usage, reflecting its rural character.
Median Income:
$32,000
Household Income:
$44,200
Family Income:
$48,000
Per Capita Income:
$18,500
Income Male:
$28,000
Income Female:
$24,000
Poverty Rate:
21.5%
Non English Speakers:
48.0%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
7.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
28.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
65.0%
Bachelors or More:
7.0%
Education
How are the schools in Cuyama, CA?
Education in Cuyama is provided by local public schools offering smaller class sizes, such as Cuyama Elementary and Cuyama Valley High School. While higher education options are limited locally, Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria is available about 42 miles away. The community values education but has a lower rate of college degree attainment compared to statewide averages.
Public Schools
Name:
Cuyama Elementary School
Street:
2300 Hwy 166
Phone:
661-766-2293
Students:
105
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.0
Name:
Cuyama Valley High School
Street:
4500 Hwy 166
Phone:
661-766-2293
Students:
110
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Colleges
Name:
Allan Hancock College
City:
Santa Maria
State:
CA
Distance:
42 miles
Students:
12,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Cuyama is supported by nearby facilities such as Marian Regional Medical Center, located in Santa Maria. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and 87% health insurance coverage, basic medical needs are met, though specialized care may require travel. The healthcare index indicates services are available but limited within the immediate area.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Marian Regional Medical Center
Address:
1400 E Church St, Santa Maria, CA 93454
Phone:
(805) 739-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.0%
Health Care Index:
66.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cuyama, CA?
Cuyama’s housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $255,000 and a 4.1% appreciation rate over the past year. About 56% of homes are owner-occupied, and rental options are available, with an average two-bedroom rent of $1,050. The area features low foreclosure and vacancy rates, making it stable for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$255,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Cuyama residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in San Luis Obispo. DMV services, including licensing and registration, are accessible via the state website or by phone. While the office is not in town, it is reachable within a reasonable drive for most local needs.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3520 S. Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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.