Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lancaster, CA
Considering a move to Lancaster, CA? With a population of over 173,000, Lancaster offers affordable housing—median home prices are around $420,000 and average rent is $1,650. Residents enjoy 75% sunny days annually and a commute time of about 35 minutes. While crime rates are higher than the national average, the city features diverse schools, nearby colleges, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Explore Lancaster’s desert climate, lower cost of living compared to much of California, and vibrant community life as you plan your move.
Demographics - Lancaster, CA
Demographics - Lancaster, CA
Lancaster, CA is home to over 173,000 residents with a median age of 33, reflecting a relatively young and diverse population. The city features a balanced gender ratio and a strong multicultural presence, with over one-third of residents speaking a language other than English. This diversity fosters a vibrant community atmosphere attractive to newcomers.
Population:
173,516
Density:
1,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.1
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
34.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
41.5%
Black:
22.6%
Asian:
4.2%
Others:
31.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lancaster, CA?
Lancaster offers a cost of living slightly above the national average but remains more affordable than many parts of California, with a median home value of $420,000 and average rent at $1,650. Residents benefit from reasonable utilities and transportation costs, making it an appealing choice for families and individuals seeking value in Southern California. State income taxes and a moderate cost of groceries and healthcare are important considerations for budgeting.
Median House Value:
$420,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$150
Auto Insurance:
$1,920
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,200
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$570
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
113.5
Grocery:
108.7
Housing:
109.2
Utilities:
121.0
Transportation:
120.5
Health Care:
108.4
Miscellaneous:
104.0
Crime
Is Lancaster, CA a safe place to live?
Lancaster experiences crime rates above the national average, with a 1 in 190 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 46 chance of property crime. While safety should be a consideration, many neighborhoods remain family-friendly with active community involvement. Prospective residents are encouraged to research specific areas for up-to-date crime trends.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
527
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,151
Crime Index:
2,678
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 190
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in Lancaster, CA year-round?
Lancaster features a classic high desert climate with hot summers reaching up to 98°F and mild winters with lows around 32°F. The city enjoys 75% sunny days annually, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Rainfall is modest, averaging just 7.5 inches per year, contributing to the area's dry and sunny appeal.
Winter
Min:
32°F
Max:
61°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
98°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
7.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
75%
Neighbors
Lancaster neighborhoods reflect a range of incomes, with a median household income of about $62,000 and a poverty rate near 19%. Most residents are employed locally or commute an average of 35 minutes, and over 80% have completed high school. The community is diverse, with one-third speaking a non-English language at home, enriching local culture and experiences.
Median Income:
$27,250
Household Income:
$61,943
Family Income:
$68,700
Per Capita Income:
$22,079
Income Male:
$45,800
Income Female:
$39,300
Poverty Rate:
18.8%
Non English Speakers:
34.0%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
7.5%
Public Transport Usage:
2.3%
Commute Time:
34.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
80.9%
Bachelors or More:
17.5%
Education
How are the schools in Lancaster, CA?
Lancaster boasts a variety of educational options, including public schools like Eastside and Lancaster High Schools, which serve large student bodies, and private institutions such as Paraclete High School. The city is also home to Antelope Valley College and a local campus of California State University, Bakersfield, making higher education accessible without leaving town. These resources support lifelong learning and development for residents of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Eastside High School
Street:
3200 E Ave J-8
Phone:
661-946-3800
Students:
2,750
Student Teacher Ratio:
24.2
Name:
Lancaster High School
Street:
44701 N. 32nd West
Phone:
661-726-7649
Students:
2,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.1
Private Schools
Name:
Paraclete High School
Street:
42145 30th St W
Phone:
661-943-3255
Students:
800
Colleges
Name:
Antelope Valley College
City:
Lancaster
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
13,000
Name:
California State University, Bakersfield (Lancaster Campus)
City:
Lancaster
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to comprehensive healthcare with facilities like Antelope Valley Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente, and nearly 90% of locals have health insurance coverage. The city offers 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents, supporting a broad range of medical needs. Overall, Lancaster provides reliable medical services for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Antelope Valley Medical Center
Address:
1600 W Avenue J, Lancaster, CA 93534
Phone:
(661) 949-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Kaiser Permanente Lancaster Medical Offices
Address:
43112 15th St W, Lancaster, CA 93534
Phone:
(661) 726-2200
Type:
General Outpatient
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.8%
Health Care Index:
70.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lancaster, CA?
Lancaster's housing market is characterized by a median home price of $420,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 55%, offering a mix of buying and renting options. The rental vacancy rate is moderate at 6.2%, and home values have appreciated by over 4% in the past year. This stability makes Lancaster an appealing destination for both homeowners and renters.
Median Home Price:
$420,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Lancaster residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles at 721 W Ave L6, providing all standard driver and vehicle services. The local DMV is accessible for new registrations, licensing, and other essential tasks. Information and appointments can be found on the official California DMV website.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
721 W Ave L6, Lancaster, CA 93534
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.