Washington / Cowlitz County

Moving to Kalama, WA

Thinking of making a move to Kalama, WA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

  • 100% Free Moving Quotes
  • No Obligation
  • Vetted & Licensed Movers
  • Secure & Private
Plan smarter before requesting quotes. Use local costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, and DMV details below to compare Kalama before you move.

Moving Help for Your Kalama, WA Relocation

After you review the local facts on this page, use the service links below to compare quote options for the type of Kalama move you are planning, including local, long-distance, apartment, piano, small, and budget-conscious moves.

Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kalama, WA

Considering a move to Kalama, WA? This welcoming community of 2,950 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $382,000 and average rents near $1,350. Commute times average 28 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (42% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Kalama's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Kalama, WA

Kalama has a population of 2,950 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 40 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 91% White, 1% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 6% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
2,950
Density
630 per sq mi
Median Age
40.2
Gender Ratio
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
5.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
90.5%
Black
0.5%
Asian
1.2%
Others
7.8%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Kalama, WA?

The cost of living in Kalama is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 105.8. Median home values are around $382,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,350. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$382,000
Gross Rent
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges
$125
Auto Insurance
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$550
State Taxes
Low: 0%| High: 0% (No state income tax)
Cost Of Living Index
105.8
Grocery
102.0
Housing
110.5
Utilities
98.2
Transportation
104.7
Health Care
101.3
Miscellaneous
97.5

Crime

Is Kalama, WA a safe place to live?

Kalama is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 115 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 80. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Washington.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
115
Property Crimes Per 100k
1,250
Crime Index
1,365
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 870
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 80

Weather

What is the weather like in Kalama, WA year-round?

Kalama experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 81°F and cold winters dipping to 34°F. The area receives about 49 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 42% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
34°F
Max
46°F

Summer

Min
56°F
Max
81°F

Spring

Min
43°F
Max
65°F

Fall

Min
44°F
Max
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches
49.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
42%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $72,500 and a low poverty rate of 10.1%. Over 91% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 21% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 28 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$35,000
Household Income
$72,500
Family Income
$84,000
Per Capita Income
$33,500
Income Male
$46,500
Income Female
$39,000
Poverty Rate
10.1%
Non English Speakers
5.5%
Rent
$1,350
Unemployment Rate
4.7%
Public Transport Usage
0.7%
Commute Time
27.8 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
91.4%
Bachelors or More
20.6%

Education

How are the schools in Kalama, WA?

Kalama offers quality education options, with public schools like Kalama High School and Kalama Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Lower Columbia College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Kalama High School
Street
548 China Garden Rd
Phone
360-673-5212
Students
350
Student Teacher Ratio
18:1
Name
Kalama Elementary School
Street
548 China Garden Rd
Phone
360-673-5207
Students
480
Student Teacher Ratio
17:1

Colleges

Name
Lower Columbia College
City
Longview
State
WA
Distance
11 miles
Students
3,400

Healthcare

Kalama residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.2 per 1,000 people and 91.8% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center
Address
1615 Delaware St, Longview, WA 98632
Phone
(360) 414-2000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage
91.8%
Health Care Index
77.2

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Kalama, WA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $382,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 71%. The market has seen a 4.7% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 7.1%. Kalama offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$382,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate
71.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
4.7%
New Construction Rate
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate
0.4%

DMV Information

Residents of Kalama handle vehicle services through the Washington State Department of Licensing, conveniently located in Vancouver. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Washington
Department
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address
11018 NE 51st Cir, Vancouver, WA 98682
Phone
(360) 902-3900

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.

FAQs About Moving to Kalama, WA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Kalama, review the core fields on this page: population 2,950, median home value $382,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,350, commute time 27.8 minutes, and sunny days percentage 42%.

Ready to Move to Kalama, WA?

When your relocation research is done, request quote options and plan your move with confidence.

Get Free Moving Quotes