Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Madera, CA
Considering a move to Madera, CA? Home to about 67,000 residents, Madera offers affordable living with median home prices around $325,000 and average rents near $1,150. Enjoy the sunny Central Valley climate with 78% sunny days and hot summers, while average commutes are a manageable 25 minutes. While the city offers friendly neighborhoods and access to local schools and healthcare, be aware that crime rates and poverty are higher than average. Madera’s family-friendly vibe and proximity to Fresno make it an appealing option for those seeking value and sunshine.
Demographics - Madera, CA
Demographics - Madera, CA
Madera is home to about 67,300 residents, with a youthful median age of 30 and a near-even gender balance. The city is notably diverse, with a large proportion of non-English speakers (44.5%) and a strong presence of Hispanic and other ethnic groups. Its moderate population density creates a lively yet approachable community atmosphere.
Population:
67,304
Density:
3,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
30.1
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
44.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
19.3%
Black:
3.5%
Asian:
2.7%
Others:
74.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Madera, CA?
Madera offers a cost of living slightly above the national average, with median home values around $325,000 and typical rents at $1,150. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are comparable to other Central Valley cities, making it an affordable choice for many families. California state taxes do apply, but overall expenses remain reasonable for the region.
Median House Value:
$325,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,500
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
108.5
Grocery:
111.0
Housing:
104.7
Utilities:
110.2
Transportation:
110.5
Health Care:
108.0
Miscellaneous:
104.0
Crime
Is Madera, CA a safe place to live?
Madera experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a 1 in 210 chance of being a victim of violent crime and property crime occurring at a rate of 1 in 48. While these figures are notable, many residents find that living in safe neighborhoods and staying vigilant can help mitigate risks. Community safety initiatives continue to address these concerns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
477
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,078
Crime Index:
2,555
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 210
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Madera, CA year-round?
Madera enjoys a classic Central Valley climate, featuring hot, dry summers reaching up to 97°F and mild winters with lows around 37°F. Residents benefit from approximately 78% sunny days each year and modest annual rainfall of 13.2 inches, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The seasonal changes are distinct but generally comfortable.
Winter
Min:
37°F
Max:
56°F
Spring
Min:
47°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
97°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
81°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
78%
Neighbors
The typical household in Madera earns around $55,000 annually, though the area faces a higher poverty rate at 23.8%. Most residents drive to work, with an average commute of 25 minutes, and public transit usage is minimal. Educational attainment is moderate, with about 69% of adults holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$23,000
Household Income:
$55,000
Family Income:
$60,800
Per Capita Income:
$19,900
Income Male:
$28,000
Income Female:
$20,500
Poverty Rate:
23.8%
Non English Speakers:
44.5%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
7.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
25.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
69.2%
Bachelors or More:
12.5%
Education
How are the schools in Madera, CA?
Madera offers a range of educational opportunities, including public schools like Madera High School and Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School, as well as private options such as St. Joachim School. Higher education is accessible through Madera Community College within city limits, and California State University, Fresno is just 26 miles away. Class sizes are moderate, supporting personalized learning environments.
Public Schools
Name:
Madera High School
Street:
200 S L St
Phone:
559-675-4444
Students:
2,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.5
Name:
Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School
Street:
601 Lily St
Phone:
559-674-4681
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
24.1
Private Schools
Name:
St. Joachim School
Street:
310 N D St
Phone:
559-674-7628
Students:
250
Colleges
Name:
Madera Community College
City:
Madera
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
6,200
Name:
California State University, Fresno
City:
Fresno
State:
CA
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
25,000
Healthcare
Madera provides solid healthcare access through facilities like Madera Community Hospital, offering emergency and general services. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and 85% health insurance coverage, residents have reasonable access to medical care. The city’s healthcare index reflects accessible services for most families.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Madera Community Hospital
Address:
1250 E Almond Ave, Madera, CA 93637
Phone:
(559) 675-5555
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.4%
Health Care Index:
72.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Madera, CA?
Madera’s housing market is affordable, featuring a median home price of $325,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $1,150. Over half the homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen steady appreciation with a 4.3% increase in home values over the past year. Rental vacancy rates are moderate, offering options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$325,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services at the California Department of Motor Vehicles office located on Maple Street in Madera. The DMV provides a full range of licensing and registration services, with appointments and information available online or by phone. Being centrally located, it’s convenient for most city residents.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1206 Maple St, Madera, CA 93637
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.