Everything You Should Know Before Moving to La Mesa, CA
Thinking of moving to La Mesa, CA? With a population of about 61,000, La Mesa offers a sunny, mild climate and a lively suburban feel close to San Diego. Expect median home prices around $805,000 and average 2-bedroom rents near $2,320, reflecting Southern California’s higher cost of living. Residents enjoy short 27-minute commutes, reputable local schools, and convenient healthcare, all in a community with a moderate crime rate and abundant sunshine—perfect for enjoying the outdoors year-round.
Demographics - La Mesa, CA
Demographics - La Mesa, CA
La Mesa is home to about 61,000 residents, featuring a diverse community with a median age of 38 and a balanced gender ratio. The city’s population density gives it a lively, suburban vibe, and over a quarter of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting cultural richness.
Population:
61,121
Density:
6,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
25.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
58.7%
Black:
8.0%
Asian:
6.8%
Others:
26.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in La Mesa, CA?
Living in La Mesa comes with a higher cost of living, with median home values around $805,000 and average rents at $2,320 for a two-bedroom apartment. Utilities and everyday expenses are above the national average, but residents enjoy quality amenities and access to Southern California’s attractions.
Median House Value:
$805,000
Gross Rent:
$2,320
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,850
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,420
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$790
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
154.6
Grocery:
112.4
Housing:
210.2
Utilities:
110.7
Transportation:
132.1
Health Care:
118.4
Miscellaneous:
109.8
Crime
Is La Mesa, CA a safe place to live?
La Mesa experiences a moderate crime rate, with a 1 in 432 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 45 chance of property crime. Most incidents involve property offenses, which is typical for an active suburban community near a major metro area.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
231
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,220
Crime Index:
2,451
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 432
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in La Mesa, CA year-round?
La Mesa boasts a mild Mediterranean climate, with pleasant year-round temperatures ranging from winter lows in the mid-40s to summer highs in the mid-80s. With nearly 70% of days being sunny and about 14 inches of annual rainfall, the city is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter
Min:
46°F
Max:
68°F
Spring
Min:
53°F
Max:
73°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
57°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
69%
Neighbors
Residents of La Mesa enjoy a median household income of $84,700 and a relatively low poverty rate of 9%. The community is well-educated, with over 92% of adults holding a high school diploma and nearly 40% earning a bachelor’s degree or higher, contributing to a vibrant and connected neighborhood.
Median Income:
$51,400
Household Income:
$84,700
Family Income:
$97,800
Per Capita Income:
$41,600
Income Male:
$54,400
Income Female:
$46,100
Poverty Rate:
9.0%
Non English Speakers:
25.4%
Rent:
$2,320
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
4.1%
Commute Time:
26.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.2%
Bachelors or More:
39.8%
Education
How are the schools in La Mesa, CA?
La Mesa is served by reputable public and private schools, such as Helix Charter High School and La Mesa Arts Academy, with nearby colleges like San Diego State University and Grossmont College just a few miles away. The area’s schools and higher education options provide strong opportunities for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Helix Charter High School
Street:
7323 University Ave
Phone:
619-644-1940
Students:
2,400
Student Teacher Ratio:
24.1
Name:
La Mesa Arts Academy
Street:
4200 Parks Ave
Phone:
619-668-5730
Students:
1,180
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.5
Private Schools
Name:
St. Martin of Tours Academy
Street:
7708 El Cajon Blvd
Phone:
619-466-3241
Students:
250
Colleges
Name:
San Diego State University
City:
San Diego
State:
CA
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
36,000
Name:
Grossmont College
City:
El Cajon
State:
CA
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
16,000
Healthcare
La Mesa offers convenient access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Sharp Grossmont Hospital nearby and a high rate of health insurance coverage among residents. The city’s 2.5 physicians per 1,000 people ensures accessible care for families and individuals alike.
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:
92.9%
Health Care Index:
78.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in La Mesa, CA?
The housing market in La Mesa is competitive, with median home prices at $805,000 and a healthy mix of owner-occupied and rental properties. Home values have appreciated by over 6% in the past year, making it an attractive option for both buyers and investors.
Median Home Price:
$805,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,320
Owner Occupied Rate:
45.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
The California Department of Motor Vehicles in La Mesa is conveniently located on La Mesa Blvd, offering full DMV services for residents. Appointments and more information can be accessed online through the state DMV website.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
8253 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942
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.