Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Penn Valley, CA
Thinking of relocating to Penn Valley, CA? With a friendly small-town feel and a population of about 1,620, Penn Valley offers affordable living with a median home price around $480,000 and rents near $1,400. Residents enjoy mild weather with over 70% sunny days, low violent crime rates (185 per 100k), and a relaxed rural lifestyle. Commutes average under 30 minutes, schools are well-rated, and nature lovers will appreciate the beautiful Sierra foothill surroundings.
Demographics - Penn Valley, CA
Demographics - Penn Valley, CA
Penn Valley is a small, close-knit community of around 1,620 residents, with a median age of 55.6 years, reflecting a mature population. The area is predominantly White, and most residents speak English at home, fostering a welcoming, familiar atmosphere. With a balanced gender ratio and moderate population density, it's an ideal setting for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Population:
1,620
Density:
230 per sq mi
Median Age:
55.6
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.7%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
5.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Penn Valley, CA?
Living in Penn Valley comes with a cost of living index of 118, which is above the national average, largely due to housing and utilities. The median home value is about $480,000 and typical rents are near $1,400, while monthly homeowner costs for those with a mortgage are roughly $2,350. State taxes and everyday expenses are moderate for California, making the area accessible for many families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$480,000
Gross Rent:
$1,400
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,650
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$670
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
118.0
Grocery:
113.4
Housing:
121.7
Utilities:
120.2
Transportation:
109.8
Health Care:
108.5
Miscellaneous:
106.7
Crime
Is Penn Valley, CA a safe place to live?
Penn Valley enjoys a low violent crime rate of 185 per 100,000 residents, meaning a relatively safe environment for families and retirees. Property crime is more common, with a 1 in 57 chance, but overall the community maintains a reputation for safety. Residents can feel comfortable enjoying local amenities and the outdoors.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
185
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,750
Crime Index:
1,935
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 540
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 57
Weather
What is the weather like in Penn Valley, CA year-round?
Penn Valley boasts a mild climate with warm summers reaching highs near 91°F and cool winters dipping to around 33°F. The area receives about 54.7 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 72% of the year, perfect for those who appreciate outdoor activities and scenic Sierra foothill views. Seasonal changes are distinct yet moderate, offering year-round comfort.
Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
55°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
91°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
72%
Neighbors
Residents of Penn Valley typically have a household income around $64,500, with a poverty rate below 14% and an unemployment rate of just over 5%. Most neighbors drive to work, facing average commutes of about 29 minutes, while public transportation usage is minimal. The community values education, with over 93% holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$34,200
Household Income:
$64,500
Family Income:
$74,000
Per Capita Income:
$36,400
Income Male:
$41,500
Income Female:
$34,900
Poverty Rate:
13.8%
Non English Speakers:
5.8%
Rent:
$1,400
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
29.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.2%
Bachelors or More:
22.1%
Education
How are the schools in Penn Valley, CA?
Penn Valley offers a range of educational options, including well-rated public and private schools with manageable student-to-teacher ratios. Local schools like Ready Springs Elementary and Vantage Point Charter provide quality K-8 education, while Sierra College's Grass Valley Center is just 10 miles away for higher education. The community places a strong emphasis on learning and academic achievement.
Public Schools
Name:
Ready Springs Elementary
Street:
10862 Spenceville Rd
Phone:
530-432-1118
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Vantage Point Charter School
Street:
10862 Spenceville Rd
Phone:
530-432-5312
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.0
Private Schools
Name:
Clear Creek School
Street:
17700 McCourtney Rd
Phone:
530-273-3664
Students:
90
Colleges
Name:
Sierra College - Grass Valley Center
City:
Grass Valley
State:
CA
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Healthcare in Penn Valley is well-supported, with the nearby Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital providing general and emergency services. The area offers about 2 physicians per 1,000 residents and 90.7% of locals have health insurance, ensuring access to care. Overall, health services are convenient and reliable for residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital
Address:
155 Glasson Way, Grass Valley, CA 95945
Phone:
(530) 274-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.7%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Penn Valley, CA?
The Penn Valley housing market features a median home price of $480,000, and most residents (nearly 74%) own their homes. Rental vacancies are moderate at 6.2%, and the market has experienced a healthy 4.9% appreciation in the past year. With steady new construction and low foreclosure rates, the area offers stable housing options for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$480,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,400
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.9%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Penn Valley are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles office in nearby Grass Valley. Services such as licensing, registration, and vehicle-related needs are conveniently handled at this location. For more information or to schedule appointments, residents can visit the DMV website or call the local office.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
11363 McCourtney Rd, Grass Valley, CA 95949
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.