Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lake Isabella, CA
Considering a move to Lake Isabella, CA? This close-knit community of 3,466 residents offers affordable living with median home prices around $178,000 and average rents at $850. Enjoy a sunny climate with 78% sunny days, mild winters, and hot, dry summers. Commutes are short—just under 20 minutes—and while crime rates are higher than average, the area provides small-town charm and proximity to outdoor recreation. Local schools serve the community, and a regional hospital is nearby, making Lake Isabella an attractive choice for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle and access to nature.
Demographics - Lake Isabella, CA
Demographics - Lake Isabella, CA
Lake Isabella is a small, close-knit community with a population of 3,466 and a median age of 51.2, reflecting a mature and settled population. The area is predominantly White, with a balanced gender ratio and a modest proportion of non-English speakers. Its moderate population density offers a relaxed, small-town feel.
Population:
3,466
Density:
345 per sq mi
Median Age:
51.2
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
85.4%
Black:
0.9%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
12.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lake Isabella, CA?
Lake Isabella offers a cost of living below the national average, with median home values around $178,000 and average rents at $850. Utilities are slightly higher than average, but affordable housing and low owner costs make it attractive for budget-conscious residents. State taxes vary, but overall expenses remain manageable compared to larger California cities.
Median House Value:
$178,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,080
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$365
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
92.1
Grocery:
97.0
Housing:
67.0
Utilities:
112.0
Transportation:
95.0
Health Care:
101.0
Miscellaneous:
98.0
Crime
Is Lake Isabella, CA a safe place to live?
While Lake Isabella boasts a friendly atmosphere, crime rates are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 267 chance of violent crime and 1 in 46 chance of property crime. Residents should stay mindful of safety, but many appreciate the small-town environment and community ties. Local law enforcement works to maintain security and support for residents.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
375
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,150
Crime Index:
2,525
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 267
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in Lake Isabella, CA year-round?
Lake Isabella enjoys a predominantly sunny climate, with about 78% of days filled with sunshine each year. Winters are mild with lows near 32°F, while summers can get quite hot, reaching up to 97°F, and the area receives about 13 inches of rainfall annually. This weather is ideal for those who love outdoor activities and a generally dry, warm environment.
Winter
Min:
32°F
Max:
55°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
74°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
97°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
78%
Neighbors
Residents of Lake Isabella tend to have modest incomes, with a median household income of $34,200 and a poverty rate of 28.2%. Most adults have at least a high school education, and commutes are relatively short at just under 20 minutes. The community is welcoming, though employment opportunities and public transportation options are limited.
Median Income:
$25,600
Household Income:
$34,200
Family Income:
$42,300
Per Capita Income:
$17,900
Income Male:
$28,100
Income Female:
$25,000
Poverty Rate:
28.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
9.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
19.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
79.8%
Bachelors or More:
12.4%
Education
How are the schools in Lake Isabella, CA?
Lake Isabella offers quality local education through its elementary schools, which have student-teacher ratios around 20:1, fostering a supportive learning environment. Higher education is accessible with Bakersfield College’s local campus and CSU Bakersfield just 43 miles away. While private school options are limited, public and community college opportunities serve residents well.
Public Schools
Name:
Lake Isabella Elementary School
Street:
2200 Hiller Ave
Phone:
760-379-2181
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.5
Name:
Wallace Elementary School
Street:
3240 Erskine Creek Rd
Phone:
760-379-2185
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
21.2
Colleges
Name:
Bakersfield College - Kern River Valley Campus
City:
Lake Isabella
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
300
Name:
California State University, Bakersfield
City:
Bakersfield
State:
CA
Distance:
43 miles
Students:
11,500
Healthcare
Healthcare needs in Lake Isabella are served by Kern Valley Hospital, offering general and emergency services nearby. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and 85% health insurance coverage, access to care is reasonable for a town of this size. The area provides essential medical support for day-to-day and urgent needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Kern Valley Hospital
Address:
6412 Laurel Ave, Mountain Mesa, CA 93240
Phone:
(760) 379-2681
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.0%
Health Care Index:
72.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lake Isabella, CA?
Housing in Lake Isabella is notably affordable, with a median home price of $178,000 and around two-thirds of residents owning their homes. The housing market is stable, showing modest appreciation and a relatively high rental vacancy rate of 10.5%. This environment supports both buyers and renters seeking value in a scenic setting.
Median Home Price:
$178,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Lake Isabella residents can access vehicle services through the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Bakersfield. Services and information are available via the DMV's official website or by phone, making vehicle registration and licensing convenient. California DMV ensures residents have access to all standard motor vehicle services.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3120 F Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301
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.