Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Needles, CA
Considering a move to Needles, CA? This sunny desert community of about 5,000 residents boasts affordable living, with median home prices around $170,000 and average rents near $900. Enjoy over 86% sunny days each year, quick commutes averaging 16 minutes, and the charm of small-town life along the Colorado River. While crime rates are higher than average and educational attainment is modest, Needles offers a relaxed pace, lower housing costs, and easy access to outdoor recreation.
Demographics - Needles, CA
Demographics - Needles, CA
Needles is a small city of just under 5,000 people, featuring a median age of 45 and a slightly higher male-to-female ratio. The population is primarily White, with a significant mix of other ethnicities, and about 12% speak a language other than English at home. Residents enjoy a low population density, contributing to a relaxed, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
4,959
Density:
244 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
107 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
12.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
65.2%
Black:
4.7%
Asian:
1.9%
Others:
28.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Needles, CA?
Living in Needles is affordable, with a median house value of $170,000 and average rents around $900 per month. Utility costs are slightly above the national average, but overall living expenses are lower than many California cities. Residents benefit from lower housing costs, making it a budget-friendly option for families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$170,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$180
Auto Insurance:
$1,520
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
92.0
Grocery:
97.1
Housing:
73.4
Utilities:
112.3
Transportation:
109.2
Health Care:
99.8
Miscellaneous:
95.0
Crime
Is Needles, CA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Needles are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 208 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 35 chance of property crime. While the overall crime index is elevated, it's important for newcomers to consider neighborhood safety and take typical precautions. Many residents enjoy a peaceful lifestyle but remain vigilant about local security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
480
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,850
Crime Index:
3,330
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 208
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 35
Weather
What is the weather like in Needles, CA year-round?
Needles boasts a desert climate with hot, dry summers reaching up to 110°F and mild winters averaging lows in the low 40s. The city enjoys about 86% sunny days each year and receives minimal rainfall, making it ideal for those who love warm, sun-filled weather. Outdoor activities can be enjoyed nearly year-round, thanks to its consistently dry and sunny conditions.
Winter
Min:
42°F
Max:
65°F
Spring
Min:
57°F
Max:
85°F
Summer
Min:
81°F
Max:
110°F
Fall
Min:
58°F
Max:
89°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
4.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
86%
Neighbors
The typical household in Needles earns about $38,400 annually, with a per capita income of roughly $20,800, and about a quarter of residents live below the poverty line. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, though college attainment is modest. Low unemployment and short commute times make daily life convenient for most residents.
Median Income:
$34,200
Household Income:
$38,400
Family Income:
$47,500
Per Capita Income:
$20,800
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
25.1%
Non English Speakers:
12.5%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
7.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
16.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
78.5%
Bachelors or More:
10.8%
Education
How are the schools in Needles, CA?
Needles offers public education through schools like Needles High School and Vista Colorado Elementary, with student-teacher ratios around 19 to 20. Higher education opportunities are available nearby at Mohave Community College, just 26 miles away. While there are no local private schools, public institutions support the community’s educational needs.
Public Schools
Name:
Needles High School
Street:
1600 Washington St
Phone:
760-326-2191
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.2
Name:
Vista Colorado Elementary School
Street:
700 Bailey Ave
Phone:
760-326-2851
Students:
360
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.1
Colleges
Name:
Mohave Community College
City:
Bullhead City
State:
AZ
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
4,500
Healthcare
Needles is served by the Colorado River Medical Center, offering general and emergency care to the community. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 86% of people insured, basic healthcare needs are generally met locally. For specialized services, residents may need to travel to larger nearby cities.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Colorado River Medical Center
Address:
1401 Bailey Ave, Needles, CA 92363
Phone:
(760) 326-7100
Type:
General & Emergency
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.2%
Health Care Index:
70.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Needles, CA?
The housing market in Needles is accessible, with a median home price of $170,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $900. Most residents own their homes, and the area has a relatively high rental vacancy rate, making it easier to find available properties. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates reflect a stable, affordable market.
Median Home Price:
$170,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services through the local California Department of Motor Vehicles office, conveniently located on Needles Highway. The DMV provides a full range of services, including licensing and registration. For more information, locals can visit the official California DMV website or call the listed number.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1900 Needles Hwy, Needles, CA 92363
Phone:
(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.