Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Guatay, CA
Considering a move to Guatay, CA? This quiet rural community of about 640 residents offers affordable living compared to coastal San Diego, with median home prices around $590,000 and average rents near $2,100. Residents enjoy a mild, sunny climate (72% sunny days), low crime rates, and a relaxed lifestyle ideal for commuters seeking peace outside the city. Guatay is close to nature, with local schools nearby and major healthcare options within a short drive, making it an appealing spot for those seeking small-town charm and access to Southern California amenities.
Demographics - Guatay, CA
Demographics - Guatay, CA
Guatay is a small, close-knit rural community with about 640 residents and a median age of 47.5 years, reflecting a mature population. The town has a predominantly White demographic at 76%, with Hispanic or Latino residents making up 18.5%. Its low population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to a peaceful, community-oriented atmosphere.
Population:
640
Density:
175 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.5
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
76.0%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
3.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Guatay, CA?
Living in Guatay comes with a higher cost of living index of 151.7, largely due to housing, where the median home value is around $590,000 and average rent is $2,100 per month. Utilities and groceries are moderately priced, and state income tax rates range from 1% to 13.3%. Residents benefit from relatively low homeowner costs without a mortgage, making it attractive for retirees and long-term owners.
Median House Value:
$590,000
Gross Rent:
$2,100
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,980
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,630
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$810
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
151.7
Grocery:
119.2
Housing:
210.5
Utilities:
112.1
Transportation:
133.0
Health Care:
109.5
Miscellaneous:
107.0
Crime
Is Guatay, CA a safe place to live?
Guatay boasts a low crime rate, with only 110 violent crimes and 850 property crimes per 100,000 residents, making it a safe choice for families and individuals. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is just 1 in 909, reflecting the area's secure, small-town environment. Residents can enjoy peace of mind thanks to these favorable safety statistics.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
110
Property Crimes Per 100k:
850
Crime Index:
960
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 909
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 118
Weather
What is the weather like in Guatay, CA year-round?
The climate in Guatay is mild and pleasant, featuring 72% sunny days each year and average annual rainfall of about 22.5 inches. Seasonal temperatures range from cool winters with lows around 36°F to warm summers peaking near 89°F. This weather supports an active, outdoor lifestyle and makes the area appealing year-round.

Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F

Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
71°F

Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
22.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
72%
Neighbors
Guatay residents enjoy a median household income of $86,400 and a family income of $94,000, with a poverty rate of 9.6%. The community is well-educated, with 90% holding at least a high school diploma, and most people commute about 39 minutes for work. Public transportation usage is minimal, reflecting the area’s rural nature and reliance on cars.
Median Income:
$39,000
Household Income:
$86,400
Family Income:
$94,000
Per Capita Income:
$38,200
Income Male:
$46,000
Income Female:
$38,800
Poverty Rate:
9.6%
Non English Speakers:
15.5%
Rent:
$2,100
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
39.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.0%
Bachelors or More:
27.3%
Education
How are the schools in Guatay, CA?
Families in Guatay have access to local public and private schools, including Descanso Elementary and Mountain Empire Christian Academy, both offering small class sizes for personalized attention. For higher education, Cuyamaca College and San Diego State University are within commuting distance, providing a range of academic opportunities. The area’s educational environment supports both young learners and adults seeking further study.

Public Schools
Name:
Descanso Elementary School
Street:
25059 Viejas Blvd, Descanso, CA 91916
Phone:
619-445-1454
Students:
90
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5

Private Schools
Name:
Mountain Empire Christian Academy
Street:
25116 Viejas Blvd, Descanso, CA 91916
Phone:
619-473-9022
Students:
40

Colleges
Name:
Cuyamaca College
City:
El Cajon
State:
CA
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
9,000
Name:
San Diego State University
City:
San Diego
State:
CA
Distance:
38 miles
Students:
35,500
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong in Guatay, with major hospitals like Sharp Grossmont Hospital and Alvarado Hospital Medical Center located within a short drive. The area has 2.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high health insurance coverage rate of 92.4%. Residents benefit from comprehensive services and emergency care nearby.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Sharp Grossmont Hospital
Address:
5555 Grossmont Center Dr, La Mesa, CA 91942
Phone:
(619) 740-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Alvarado Hospital Medical Center
Address:
6655 Alvarado Rd, San Diego, CA 92120
Phone:
(619) 287-3270
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.4%
Health Care Index:
77.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Guatay, CA?
Guatay’s housing market is dominated by owner-occupied homes, with a rate of 79.3% and a median home price of $590,000. The area has a low rental vacancy rate of 4.1% and property values have appreciated by 6.2% in the past year. These factors make Guatay a stable and appealing market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$590,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,100
Owner Occupied Rate:
79.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Guatay is served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in El Cajon. Residents can access full DMV services, including licensing and vehicle registration, at this conveniently located facility. More information and online services are available at the official California DMV website.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1450 Graves Ave, El Cajon, CA 92021
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.