Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Palmdale, CA
Considering a move to Palmdale, CA? Home to over 165,000 residents, Palmdale offers affordable housing with a median home price of $427,000 and average rents around $1,850. The city enjoys 72% sunny days and mild winters, though commutes average a lengthy 43 minutes. Crime rates are moderate for the region, and while educational attainment is below the state average, families have access to large public schools and nearby colleges. Check out the cost of living, schools, and more to see if Palmdale is right for you.
Demographics - Palmdale, CA
Demographics - Palmdale, CA
Palmdale is home to about 166,000 residents with a youthful median age of 32. The city boasts a diverse community, with significant Hispanic, Black, and Asian populations, and nearly 38% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its population density of 2,600 per square mile offers a balanced urban-suburban feel.
Population:
165,761
Density:
2,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
32.2
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
37.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
23.8%
Black:
14.5%
Asian:
4.1%
Others:
57.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Palmdale, CA?
Palmdale’s cost of living is slightly above the national average, with a median home value of $427,000 and typical rents around $1,850 per month. Utilities and transportation costs are higher than the U.S. norm, but housing remains more affordable than many Southern California cities. State income taxes in California are tiered, ranging from 1% to 13.3%.
Median House Value:
$427,000
Gross Rent:
$1,850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,820
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,310
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$725
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
114.5
Grocery:
108.2
Housing:
113.7
Utilities:
120.4
Transportation:
121.1
Health Care:
110.8
Miscellaneous:
108.0
Crime
Is Palmdale, CA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Palmdale are moderate, with residents facing a 1 in 249 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 65 chance for property crime annually. While these rates are generally in line with other cities in the region, it's wise for newcomers to stay informed about local safety. The city maintains a proactive approach to community policing.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
402
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,540
Crime Index:
1,942
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 249
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 65
Weather
What is the weather like in Palmdale, CA year-round?
Palmdale enjoys a sunny high desert climate, with about 72% sunny days each year and mild winters dipping to the low 30s. Summers are warm, often reaching the upper 90s, while annual rainfall is low at just under 8 inches. This weather appeals to those seeking plenty of sunshine and comfortable outdoor living.
Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
74°F
Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
97°F
Fall
Min:
49°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
7.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
72%
Neighbors
The typical Palmdale household earns about $69,000 annually, though the city has a higher-than-average poverty rate at 18%. Commutes are lengthy at an average of 43 minutes, and a small percentage of residents use public transportation. Educational attainment is moderate, with nearly 80% holding a high school diploma and about 18% earning a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Median Income:
$32,100
Household Income:
$69,000
Family Income:
$72,900
Per Capita Income:
$22,900
Income Male:
$40,100
Income Female:
$32,300
Poverty Rate:
17.9%
Non English Speakers:
37.5%
Rent:
$1,850
Unemployment Rate:
6.6%
Public Transport Usage:
2.6%
Commute Time:
42.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
79.3%
Bachelors or More:
17.7%
Education
How are the schools in Palmdale, CA?
Palmdale serves families with several large public high schools, such as Highland and Palmdale High, each enrolling over 2,500 students. Private school options and nearby Antelope Valley College provide diverse educational opportunities. While student-teacher ratios are higher than average, families benefit from a range of choices for K-12 and higher education.
Public Schools
Name:
Highland High School
Street:
39055 25th St W
Phone:
661-538-0304
Students:
2,900
Student Teacher Ratio:
24.3
Name:
Palmdale High School
Street:
2137 E Avenue R
Phone:
661-273-3181
Students:
2,600
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.7
Private Schools
Name:
Sacred Heart School
Street:
625 W Kettering St
Phone:
661-948-3613
Students:
270
Colleges
Name:
Antelope Valley College
City:
Lancaster
State:
CA
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
13,000
Healthcare
Palmdale provides access to quality healthcare through local hospitals such as Palmdale Regional Medical Center. The city has about 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents, and 88% of the population is insured, ensuring most families have access to essential medical services. Emergency care and general surgery are readily available within city limits.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Palmdale Regional Medical Center
Address:
38600 Medical Center Dr, Palmdale, CA 93551
Phone:
(661) 382-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Antelope Valley Hospital
Address:
1600 W Ave J, Lancaster, CA 93534
Phone:
(661) 949-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.1%
Health Care Index:
71.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Palmdale, CA?
The local housing market features a median home price of $427,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,850. About 59% of residents own their homes, and the area sees steady appreciation, with prices rising 3.4% over the past year. Vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, making Palmdale a stable option for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$427,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,850
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Palmdale handle vehicle and licensing needs through the California Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in nearby Lancaster. The DMV offers a full range of services, including registrations, licenses, and permits. Online resources are available at the official California DMV website for added convenience.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
45211 23rd St W, Lancaster, CA 93536
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.