Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Mckinleyville, CA
Thinking of moving to Mckinleyville, CA? This coastal community of 17,242 offers a relaxed lifestyle with affordable rents (around $1,350) and a median home price of $451,000. Residents enjoy short commutes (average 19.7 minutes), mild Pacific weather, and access to strong local schools. While property crime is slightly above average, the area boasts beautiful scenery, a friendly atmosphere, and proximity to Cal Poly Humboldt. Discover if Mckinleyville’s unique coastal charm is right for you!
Demographics - Mckinleyville, CA
Demographics - Mckinleyville, CA
McKinleyville is home to about 17,200 residents, with a median age of nearly 40, offering a balanced mix of families and working professionals. The population is predominantly White, with a modest representation of other groups, and about 7% speak a language other than English at home. The area features a near-equal gender ratio and a comfortable suburban density.
Population:
17,242
Density:
890 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.7
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.4%

Ethnic Composition
White:
82.5%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
2.1%
Others:
14.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Mckinleyville, CA?
Living in McKinleyville is moderately more expensive than the national average, particularly for housing, with a median home value of $451,000 and typical rents around $1,350 per month. Utilities and groceries are also slightly above average, but residents benefit from reasonable transportation and healthcare costs. California’s state income tax applies, making it important for newcomers to budget accordingly.
Median House Value:
$451,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,600
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$620
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
118.5
Grocery:
110.2
Housing:
124.8
Utilities:
105.6
Transportation:
111.3
Health Care:
108.4
Miscellaneous:
106.0
Crime
Is Mckinleyville, CA a safe place to live?
McKinleyville experiences a slightly higher property crime rate compared to national figures, with a 1 in 55 chance, while violent crime remains relatively low at a 1 in 406 chance. The community is generally safe, but residents should take standard precautions, especially regarding property security. Overall, the area maintains a small-town feel with a watchful community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
246
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,821
Crime Index:
2,067
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 406
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 55
Weather
What is the weather like in Mckinleyville, CA year-round?
Residents enjoy mild Pacific coastal weather year-round, with summer highs rarely above 65°F and winter lows around 39°F. The area receives ample rainfall, averaging over 48 inches annually, and enjoys sunshine about 54% of the year. This climate supports lush landscapes and outdoor activities throughout all seasons.

Winter
Min:
39°F
Max:
56°F

Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
61°F

Summer
Min:
50°F
Max:
65°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The typical household in McKinleyville earns about $63,200, with a poverty rate near 14% and an unemployment rate just under 6%. Most residents have completed high school, and nearly a third hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Short commutes averaging 20 minutes and low public transit usage reflect the town’s suburban character.
Median Income:
$30,700
Household Income:
$63,200
Family Income:
$76,400
Per Capita Income:
$31,700
Income Male:
$40,200
Income Female:
$32,400
Poverty Rate:
13.9%
Non English Speakers:
7.4%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
5.9%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
19.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.8%
Bachelors or More:
27.3%
Education
How are the schools in Mckinleyville, CA?
McKinleyville offers strong educational options, including well-regarded public schools and access to private education. The town is located just six miles from Cal Poly Humboldt, a major university in Arcata, providing ample higher education opportunities. Local schools offer manageable class sizes and a supportive learning environment.

Public Schools
Name:
McKinleyville High School
Street:
1300 Murray Rd
Phone:
707-839-6400
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.5
Name:
Dow's Prairie Elementary
Street:
3940 Dow's Prairie Rd
Phone:
707-839-1529
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.2

Private Schools
Name:
Pacific Union School (Private PK-8)
Street:
3001 Janes Rd, Arcata
Phone:
707-822-4619
Students:
270

Colleges
Name:
Cal Poly Humboldt
City:
Arcata
State:
CA
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
5,800
Healthcare
McKinleyville residents have access to quality healthcare, with two major hospitals nearby and over 91% of the population insured. The area supports 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring timely medical care. Emergency services are readily available through local hospitals in Arcata and Eureka.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Mad River Community Hospital
Address:
3800 Janes Rd, Arcata, CA 95521
Phone:
(707) 822-3621
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Joseph Hospital
Address:
2700 Dolbeer St, Eureka, CA 95501
Phone:
(707) 445-8121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.1%
Health Care Index:
71.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Mckinleyville, CA?
The housing market features a median home price of $451,000 and average rents around $1,350 for a two-bedroom, making it relatively affordable for Northern California. About two-thirds of homes are owner-occupied, and the area sees steady home appreciation with low foreclosure rates. Rental vacancies are limited, reflecting steady demand.
Median Home Price:
$451,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
65.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are handled by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Eureka. Residents can access licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services either in person or online. The DMV is easily reachable by phone or through its official website.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
322 W 15th St, Eureka, CA 95501
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.