Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Nipomo, CA
Considering a move to Nipomo, CA? This friendly Central Coast town of 18,500 offers beautiful weather with 70% sunny days and mild temperatures year-round. Housing is on the pricier side (median home value $735,000; average rent $2,150), but residents enjoy low crime rates and a relaxed, suburban feel. Commute times are reasonable at just over 26 minutes, and families will find reputable local schools and colleges nearby. If you value coastal living, safety, and a slower pace, Nipomo could be your perfect fit.
Demographics - Nipomo, CA
Demographics - Nipomo, CA
Nipomo is a diverse community of around 18,500 people, with a median age of nearly 40 and a balanced gender ratio. The population is primarily White and Hispanic or Latino, and nearly a quarter of residents speak a language other than English at home. The town features a moderate population density, offering a blend of suburban space and neighborly atmosphere.
Population:
18,500
Density:
1,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.7
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
24.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
61.0%
Black:
1.1%
Asian:
2.8%
Others:
2.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Nipomo, CA?
The cost of living in Nipomo is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 143. Housing is the largest expense, as the median home value is $735,000 and average rent is $2,150, while everyday essentials like groceries and utilities also trend above national averages. Residents should budget accordingly for local expenses, especially if planning to buy a home.
Median House Value:
$735,000
Gross Rent:
$2,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$760
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
143.0
Grocery:
119.5
Housing:
178.0
Utilities:
114.0
Transportation:
128.0
Health Care:
109.0
Miscellaneous:
106.0
Crime
Is Nipomo, CA a safe place to live?
Nipomo is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 160 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 1,350 per 100,000. The chances of being a victim of violent crime are about 1 in 625, making it a reassuring choice for families and retirees. Overall, crime rates are below state and national averages, contributing to the town’s peaceful feel.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
160
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,350
Crime Index:
1,510
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 625
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 74
Weather
What is the weather like in Nipomo, CA year-round?
Nipomo enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with average winter highs reaching 65°F and summer highs around 77°F. The area receives about 15.7 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 70% sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. Residents can expect comfortable temperatures and plenty of sunshine throughout the seasons.

Winter
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F

Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
73°F

Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
77°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
15.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
70%
Neighbors
Nipomo neighbors typically have a household income of $89,500 and a poverty rate of just over 8%, reflecting a stable local economy. Most residents commute about 26 minutes to work, and the community is well-educated, with nearly 87% holding a high school diploma or higher. The area maintains a low unemployment rate and a welcoming, family-oriented environment.
Median Income:
$39,500
Household Income:
$89,500
Family Income:
$95,000
Per Capita Income:
$37,800
Income Male:
$49,000
Income Female:
$39,200
Poverty Rate:
8.1%
Non English Speakers:
24.0%
Rent:
$2,150
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
26.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
87.1%
Bachelors or More:
26.8%
Education
How are the schools in Nipomo, CA?
The town features reputable public schools like Nipomo High School and Dana Elementary, with reasonable student-teacher ratios and supportive learning environments. For higher education, students have access to nearby community colleges such as Cuesta College and Allan Hancock College, located within a short drive. Nipomo’s educational offerings cater to families and individuals seeking quality schooling options.

Public Schools
Name:
Nipomo High School
Street:
525 N Thompson Ave
Phone:
805-474-3300
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.5
Name:
Dana Elementary School
Street:
920 W Tefft St
Phone:
805-474-3740
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.0

Private Schools
Name:
Central Coast New Tech High School (Charter)
Street:
525 N Thompson Ave
Phone:
805-474-3350
Students:
300

Colleges
Name:
Cuesta College
City:
San Luis Obispo
State:
CA
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
10,100
Name:
Allan Hancock College
City:
Santa Maria
State:
CA
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
11,500
Healthcare
Residents of Nipomo have access to quality healthcare facilities, including Marian Regional Medical Center and Arroyo Grande Community Hospital, both offering comprehensive emergency services nearby. The area supports about 2.3 physicians per 1,000 people, and nearly 90% of residents have health insurance coverage. Healthcare services are accessible and reliable for both families and seniors.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Marian Regional Medical Center
Address:
1400 E Church St, Santa Maria, CA 93454
Phone:
(805) 739-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Arroyo Grande Community Hospital
Address:
345 S Halcyon Rd, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Phone:
(805) 489-4261
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.6%
Health Care Index:
80.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Nipomo, CA?
Nipomo's housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $735,000 and a strong owner-occupied rate of over 72%. Home values have appreciated by 5.2% over the past year, and the rental vacancy rate remains low at 4.6%. The community offers a stable investment for homebuyers and a range of options for renters.
Median Home Price:
$735,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Nipomo residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in San Luis Obispo. Essential DMV services, such as licensing and vehicle registration, are easily accessible both in person and online via the state’s official website. The DMV provides convenient support for new arrivals and long-term residents alike.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3190 S Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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.