Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Mountain Ranch, CA
Considering a move to Mountain Ranch, CA? This peaceful rural community of about 1,650 residents offers affordable housing, with median home prices around $340,000 and average rents near $1,250. Residents enjoy plenty of sunshine (69% sunny days), a relaxed pace, and easy access to outdoor recreation. While the cost of living is moderate and violent crime rates are relatively low, amenities and schools are a drive away. Commute times average 32 minutes, so plan on some travel for work or shopping, but you’ll love the serene foothill lifestyle and friendly, close-knit vibe.
Demographics - Mountain Ranch, CA
Demographics - Mountain Ranch, CA
Mountain Ranch is a small, close-knit community of about 1,650 residents, with a median age of 54.2, reflecting a mature population. The area is predominantly White (88.5%) and has a low population density, offering a peaceful rural environment. A modest percentage of residents speak a language other than English, contributing to the town’s subtle cultural diversity.
Population:
1,650
Density:
38 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.2
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
9.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Mountain Ranch, CA?
The cost of living in Mountain Ranch is slightly above the U.S. average, with a Cost of Living Index of 107. Median home values are around $340,000, and typical rents are about $1,250, making housing relatively affordable by California standards. Utilities and transportation costs run a bit higher than average, but the overall expense remains reasonable for the region.
Median House Value:
$340,000
Gross Rent:
$1,250
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$180
Auto Insurance:
$1,950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,580
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$540
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
107
Grocery:
103
Housing:
98
Utilities:
115
Transportation:
110
Health Care:
105
Miscellaneous:
102
Crime
Is Mountain Ranch, CA a safe place to live?
Mountain Ranch experiences relatively low violent crime, with a rate of 265 incidents per 100,000 residents, but property crime is somewhat higher. Residents have a 1 in 377 chance of being a victim of violent crime, indicating a generally safe community. However, it's wise to take precautions against property theft.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
265
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,380
Crime Index:
1,645
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 377
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 72
Weather
What is the weather like in Mountain Ranch, CA year-round?
The area enjoys a mild climate with warm, dry summers reaching up to 93°F, and cool winters averaging lows of 34°F. With 69% of days being sunny and about 35 inches of annual rainfall, residents can expect plenty of sunshine and pleasant weather year-round. Seasonal changes are noticeable but not extreme, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
54°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
74°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
93°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
35 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
69%
Neighbors
Local households in Mountain Ranch have a median income of $54,000, with a poverty rate of 13.6%. Most residents commute about 32 minutes to work, and public transport use is minimal, reflecting the rural setting. Educational attainment is solid, with over 87% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$28,500
Household Income:
$54,000
Family Income:
$61,000
Per Capita Income:
$29,200
Income Male:
$35,000
Income Female:
$27,000
Poverty Rate:
13.6%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$1,250
Unemployment Rate:
5.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
32.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.2%
Bachelors or More:
20.6%
Education
How are the schools in Mountain Ranch, CA?
Education in Mountain Ranch is served by local public schools such as Toyon Middle School and Calaveras High School, offering reasonable class sizes and community involvement. Higher education is accessible at Columbia College, about 30 miles away. While options are somewhat limited locally, essential educational needs are met within a supportive environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Toyon Middle School
Street:
3412 Double Springs Rd
Phone:
(209) 754-2137
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.5
Name:
Calaveras High School
Street:
350 High School St
Phone:
(209) 754-1811
Students:
740
Student Teacher Ratio:
21.0
Colleges
Name:
Columbia College
City:
Sonora
State:
CA
Distance:
30 miles
Students:
3,300
Healthcare
Residents have access to healthcare services at nearby Mark Twain Medical Center, which provides general and emergency care. The area offers about 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 90% of the population has health insurance. Healthcare quality is considered good for a rural community, with essential services readily available.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mark Twain Medical Center
Address:
768 Mountain Ranch Rd, San Andreas, CA 95249
Phone:
(209) 754-3521
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.5%
Health Care Index:
69.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Mountain Ranch, CA?
Mountain Ranch features a stable housing market with a median home price of $340,000 and most homes being owner-occupied. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents around $1,250 and a low vacancy rate of 6.8%. Home values have appreciated modestly, suggesting a steady investment environment.
Median Home Price:
$340,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,250
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
All motor vehicle services in Mountain Ranch are provided by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the closest office located in San Andreas. Residents can access standard DMV services including licensing, registration, and title services. Appointments and online resources are available for added convenience.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
526 N. Hwy 49, Suite 1, San Andreas, CA 95249
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.