Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Mountain Center, CA
Thinking about moving to Mountain Center, CA? This quiet rural community of about 560 residents offers scenic mountain living, with median home prices around $395,000 and average rents near $1,400. Enjoy a sunny climate with 75% sunny days a year and mild seasonal temperatures. Commute times average 32.5 minutes, and the area is known for its peaceful pace, low density, and access to outdoor recreation. While public schools serve nearby areas and crime rates are moderate, Mountain Center provides a tranquil lifestyle for those seeking space and natural beauty.
Demographics - Mountain Center, CA
Demographics - Mountain Center, CA
Mountain Center is a small, rural community with a population of about 560 residents and a low density of 15 people per square mile. The median age is 51, indicating a mature population, and the area is predominantly White with a modest percentage of non-English speakers. This close-knit setting offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for those seeking quiet mountain living.
Population:
560
Density:
15 per sq mi
Median Age:
51.0
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
16.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
79.5%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
18.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Mountain Center, CA?
Living in Mountain Center comes with a cost of living index of 119, slightly above the national average, reflecting higher housing expenses. Median home values are around $395,000 and average rents are about $1,400 per month, making it relatively affordable compared to many California locales. Utilities and daily expenses are moderate, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without excessive costs.
Median House Value:
$395,000
Gross Rent:
$1,400
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,650
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,880
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$650
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
119.0
Grocery:
112.0
Housing:
118.5
Utilities:
104.0
Transportation:
113.0
Health Care:
108.0
Miscellaneous:
110.0
Crime
Is Mountain Center, CA a safe place to live?
Mountain Center experiences a moderate crime rate, with 230 violent crimes and 1,480 property crimes per 100,000 residents, which is typical for a small, rural area. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 435, while property crime is 1 in 68. Most residents find the community to be quiet and generally safe, especially compared to larger urban areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
230
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,480
Crime Index:
1,710
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 435
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 68
Weather
What is the weather like in Mountain Center, CA year-round?
Residents enjoy a sunny climate, with around 75% of days being sunny each year. Seasonal temperatures are mild, ranging from winter lows of 32°F to summer highs near 88°F, and the area receives about 19 inches of annual rainfall. This weather supports an active outdoor lifestyle and contributes to the area's scenic appeal.
Winter
Min:
32°F
Max:
55°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
19.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
75%
Neighbors
Mountain Center's households have a median income of $68,200, with a poverty rate of 10.4% and an unemployment rate of 5.6%. Most adults have completed high school, and nearly 30% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The community is diverse and welcoming, with a small-town feel and average commute times of around 32 minutes.
Median Income:
$41,250
Household Income:
$68,200
Family Income:
$74,300
Per Capita Income:
$36,900
Income Male:
$44,500
Income Female:
$36,400
Poverty Rate:
10.4%
Non English Speakers:
16.5%
Rent:
$1,400
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
32.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.0%
Bachelors or More:
29.5%
Education
How are the schools in Mountain Center, CA?
Public school options are available in nearby communities, including Hemet High School and Hamilton School, both offering comprehensive K-12 education. Class sizes are moderate, and Mt. San Jacinto College provides higher education opportunities within a 30-mile drive. Families benefit from solid educational resources in a supportive, close-knit environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Hemet High School
Street:
41701 E Stetson Ave
Phone:
951-765-5150
Students:
2,400
Student Teacher Ratio:
25.7
Name:
Hamilton School (K-12)
Street:
57430 Mitchell Rd, Anza, CA 92539
Phone:
951-763-1865
Students:
750
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.5
Colleges
Name:
Mt. San Jacinto College
City:
San Jacinto
State:
CA
Distance:
29 miles
Students:
15,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, with two major hospitals nearby and about 2.5 physicians per 1,000 people. Nearly 90% of locals have health insurance, and the area scores reasonably well on healthcare accessibility. Emergency and general medical services are within a short drive, ensuring peace of mind for families and retirees.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Hemet Global Medical Center
Address:
1117 E Devonshire Ave, Hemet, CA 92543
Phone:
(951) 652-2811
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Desert Regional Medical Center
Address:
1150 N Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone:
(760) 323-6511
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.8%
Health Care Index:
71.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Mountain Center, CA?
Mountain Center's housing market features a median home price of $395,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 70%. Rents average $1,400 for a two-bedroom, and the market has seen a modest appreciation of 4.7% over the past year. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates reflect a stable, desirable place to live.
Median Home Price:
$395,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,400
Owner Occupied Rate:
69.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Mountain Center residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Hemet. DMV services, including licensing and registration, are accessible both in person and online through the state website. This ensures residents can easily manage their vehicle needs without traveling far.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1450 S. State St, Hemet, CA 92543
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.