Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Grass Valley, CA
Thinking of moving to Grass Valley, CA? This charming foothill city of 13,250 offers a scenic climate with 68% sunny days, moderate commutes averaging 19 minutes, and a small-town feel. Median home prices are around $443,000 with average rents at $1,340. While property crime rates are higher than average, the city stands out for its vibrant community, easy access to outdoor recreation, and solid local schools. Explore cost of living, healthcare, and more below to see if Grass Valley is your next home.
Demographics - Grass Valley, CA
Demographics - Grass Valley, CA
Grass Valley is a close-knit community of about 13,250 residents, with a median age nearing 48, reflecting a mature population. The city is predominantly White, with 84% of the population, and a moderate mix of other ethnicities, while around 7.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its population density of 2,100 people per square mile gives the town a lively yet comfortable small-city atmosphere.
Population:
13,250
Density:
2,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.7
Gender Ratio:
87 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
84.1%
Black:
0.9%
Asian:
2.1%
Others:
12.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Grass Valley, CA?
The cost of living in Grass Valley is higher than the national average, with a cost index of 129.5. Median home values stand at $443,000 and average rent is $1,340, reflecting the city’s desirable location and amenities. Residents should also factor in higher housing and utility costs compared to national norms.
Median House Value:
$443,000
Gross Rent:
$1,340
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,620
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$680
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
129.5
Grocery:
111.9
Housing:
144.3
Utilities:
115.2
Transportation:
123.5
Health Care:
105.9
Miscellaneous:
107.8
Crime
Is Grass Valley, CA a safe place to live?
Grass Valley experiences a higher-than-average property crime rate, with about 2,600 property crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 38 chance of being affected. Violent crime is less common, with a rate of 320 incidents per 100,000 and a 1 in 312 chance. Prospective residents should consider these safety factors when choosing neighborhoods.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
320
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,600
Crime Index:
2,920
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 312
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 38
Weather
What is the weather like in Grass Valley, CA year-round?
Grass Valley enjoys a pleasant foothill climate with mild winters in the 30s and 50s, warm summers reaching up to 88°F, and abundant sunshine 68% of the year. The area receives generous rainfall at 58 inches annually, helping to support lush local scenery. Seasonal changes are distinct, offering comfortable year-round outdoor opportunities.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
52°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
74°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
58.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
68%
Neighbors
Residents of Grass Valley typically have a household income of around $54,200, with a poverty rate of 16.8% and an unemployment rate just below 5%. The community is well-educated, as over 91% have completed high school and more than a quarter hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Most people commute about 19 minutes to work, and public transportation use is very limited.
Median Income:
$32,900
Household Income:
$54,200
Family Income:
$67,850
Per Capita Income:
$28,950
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
16.8%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$1,340
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
19.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.4%
Bachelors or More:
26.2%
Education
How are the schools in Grass Valley, CA?
Grass Valley offers a variety of educational options, including well-regarded public schools like Grass Valley Charter and Scotten Elementary, each serving over 500 students. The city is also home to the Nevada County campus of Sierra College, providing local access to higher education for around 3,000 students. Private school options are available, supporting diverse educational needs for families.
Public Schools
Name:
Grass Valley Charter School
Street:
225 S Auburn St
Phone:
530-273-8723
Students:
550
Student Teacher Ratio:
22:1
Name:
Scotten Elementary School
Street:
10821 Squirrel Creek Rd
Phone:
530-273-6472
Students:
590
Student Teacher Ratio:
21:1
Private Schools
Name:
Catholic Schoolhouse of the Gold Country
Street:
235 S Church St
Phone:
530-273-2347
Students:
95
Colleges
Name:
Sierra College (Nevada County Campus)
City:
Grass Valley
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Grass Valley is served by Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital, offering comprehensive general and emergency care within the city. The area has 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% of people have health insurance coverage, supporting strong access to healthcare services. The local healthcare index suggests good availability and quality of medical care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital
Address:
155 Glasson Way, Grass Valley, CA 95945
Phone:
(530) 274-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.3%
Health Care Index:
70.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Grass Valley, CA?
Grass Valley’s median home price is $443,000, with about half of residents owning their homes and the rest renting, reflecting a balanced market. Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,340, and the city has a low foreclosure rate and modest home appreciation. New construction is limited, helping to maintain the area’s established charm.
Median Home Price:
$443,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,340
Owner Occupied Rate:
48.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Department of Motor Vehicles services for Grass Valley residents are provided by the California DMV, with the nearest office in Lincoln. Residents can handle licensing, vehicle registration, and other motor vehicle needs through this location or the DMV’s online portal. Efficient access to DMV services supports local transportation convenience.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
841 Sterling Pkwy, Lincoln, CA 95648
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.