Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lee Vining, CA
Considering a move to Lee Vining, CA? This charming mountain town has a population of around 610 and offers affordable housing with a median home price of $356,000 and average rents near $1,100. With a low violent crime rate (155 per 100K), short 15-minute commutes, and 80% sunny days, Lee Vining is perfect for those who love small-town living and outdoor adventure. The local schools provide close-knit learning environments, while the area's scenic beauty and mild summers make it a unique spot for both families and retirees.
Demographics - Lee Vining, CA
Demographics - Lee Vining, CA
Lee Vining is a small, close-knit community with a population of about 610 residents and a median age of 41. Its diverse makeup includes a majority White population alongside significant Hispanic or Latino representation, and about 14% of residents primarily speak a language other than English at home. The town's low population density and balanced gender ratio create a quiet, welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
610
Density:
67 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
108 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
14.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
67.0%
Asian:
2.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lee Vining, CA?
Living in Lee Vining comes with a higher-than-average cost of living index at 124.5, driven largely by housing costs and utilities. The median home value is $356,000, while average rents are around $1,100 per month, making it relatively affordable compared to many parts of California. Residents benefit from reasonable transportation and healthcare expenses, although state income taxes can range considerably.
Median House Value:
$356,000
Gross Rent:
$1,100
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$490
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
124.5
Grocery:
115.0
Housing:
137.2
Utilities:
110.1
Transportation:
121.8
Health Care:
106.7
Miscellaneous:
108.3
Crime
Is Lee Vining, CA a safe place to live?
Lee Vining enjoys a notably low violent crime rate of just 155 incidents per 100,000 people, making it a safe place for families and individuals. Property crime is present but remains manageable, with a 1 in 93 chance annually. Overall, the town offers a secure environment compared to many urban areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
155
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,080
Crime Index:
1,235
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 645
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 93
Weather
What is the weather like in Lee Vining, CA year-round?
The weather in Lee Vining features mild, sunny summers with highs around 82°F and cold, snowy winters dropping to 18°F. Residents enjoy about 80% sunny days annually and moderate rainfall, making it ideal for those who appreciate clear skies and outdoor activities. Seasonal changes bring a full range of temperatures, perfect for experiencing all four seasons.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
31°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
41°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
27°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
80%
Neighbors
Lee Vining offers a community atmosphere where median household income is $69,200 and most residents have at least a high school diploma. The poverty rate is moderate at 12.7%, and unemployment is relatively low at just over 5%. Commute times are short, typically under 15 minutes, supporting a laid-back lifestyle.
Median Income:
$39,800
Household Income:
$69,200
Family Income:
$78,500
Per Capita Income:
$29,300
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$34,000
Poverty Rate:
12.7%
Non English Speakers:
14.2%
Rent:
$1,100
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
14.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.6%
Bachelors or More:
27.3%
Education
How are the schools in Lee Vining, CA?
Education in Lee Vining features small class sizes and personalized learning, with public schools like Lee Vining Elementary and High School serving fewer than 100 students each. The area is also supported by Cerro Coso Community College’s Eastern Sierra campus, just 27 miles away in Bishop. These options provide strong educational opportunities in a close-knit environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Lee Vining Elementary School
Street:
132 Lee Vining Ave
Phone:
760-647-6540
Students:
42
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Name:
Lee Vining High School
Street:
51710 US-395
Phone:
760-647-6460
Students:
55
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.5
Colleges
Name:
Cerro Coso Community College (Eastern Sierra Campus)
City:
Bishop
State:
CA
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Lee Vining includes nearby Northern Inyo Hospital in Bishop, offering general and emergency services. The town has about 1.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high health insurance coverage rate of 90%. Overall, residents benefit from reliable medical care within a short drive.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Northern Inyo Hospital
Address:
150 Pioneer Ln, Bishop, CA 93514
Phone:
(760) 873-5811
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.2%
Health Care Index:
72.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lee Vining, CA?
The housing market in Lee Vining is stable, with a median home price of $356,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of 61%. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $1,100 and a low foreclosure rate of just 0.4%. Slow but steady home appreciation makes it appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$356,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,100
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Lee Vining residents can access DMV services through the California Department of Motor Vehicles office in nearby Bishop, located at 1100 N Main St. The office handles vehicle registration, licensing, and related needs and can be reached at 1-800-777-0133 or online. Proximity to Bishop makes essential DMV tasks convenient.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1100 N Main St, Bishop, CA 93514
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.