Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Potrero, CA
Considering a move to Potrero, CA? This rural community of about 700 residents offers affordable median home prices around $475,000 and average rents near $1,650, with a relaxed pace and beautiful sunny weather—over 70% sunny days yearly! Commutes average 36 minutes, and while amenities are limited, larger hospitals and colleges are within a 30–40 mile drive. Crime rates are low, and the area appeals to those seeking a peaceful, small-town lifestyle with access to nearby San Diego County attractions.
Demographics - Potrero, CA
Demographics - Potrero, CA
Potrero is a small rural community with a population of about 700, marked by a median age of 41.5 and a relatively even gender balance. The area is predominantly White, with a notable 32% of residents speaking a language other than English at home, reflecting some cultural diversity. Residents enjoy a low-density setting, ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Population:
700
Density:
46 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.5
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
32.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
70.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
2.0%
Others:
27.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Potrero, CA?
The cost of living in Potrero is moderately above the national average, with a cost of living index of 128. Median home values are around $475,000 and average rents are about $1,650, making housing relatively affordable for the region. Utilities and transportation costs are also slightly higher, but overall expenses remain manageable for many families.
Median House Value:
$475,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$185
Auto Insurance:
$1,550
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,300
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$780
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
128.0
Grocery:
114.0
Housing:
140.0
Utilities:
120.0
Transportation:
130.0
Health Care:
112.0
Miscellaneous:
108.0
Crime
Is Potrero, CA a safe place to live?
Potrero experiences low crime, with a violent crime rate of 215 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 1,340 per 100,000. Residents face a 1 in 465 chance of violent crime, making it a safe choice for families and individuals. The community’s peaceful atmosphere is a major draw for those seeking security and tranquility.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
215
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,340
Crime Index:
1,555
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 465
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 75
Weather
What is the weather like in Potrero, CA year-round?
Potrero enjoys a mild climate, with winter lows averaging 36°F and summer highs reaching up to 91°F. The area receives about 15.7 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 73% sunny days, offering residents plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes are gentle, contributing to a comfortable year-round environment.

Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
67°F

Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
76°F

Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
91°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
15.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Local households in Potrero typically earn a median income of $68,000, with family incomes averaging $76,000. The community has a modest poverty rate of 13.5% and an unemployment rate around 5%, while most residents commute about 36 minutes for work. Public transportation use is very low, reflecting the rural character of the area.
Median Income:
$36,000
Household Income:
$68,000
Family Income:
$76,000
Per Capita Income:
$29,500
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
13.5%
Non English Speakers:
32.0%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
36.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
81.0%
Bachelors or More:
16.5%
Education
How are the schools in Potrero, CA?
Potrero offers local elementary education at Potrero Elementary School, known for its small class sizes and community feel. For higher education, residents are within reach of Cuyamaca College (28 miles away) and San Diego State University (37 miles), providing ample opportunities for post-secondary studies. The educational environment is supportive, with most adults holding at least a high school diploma.

Public Schools
Name:
Potrero Elementary School
Street:
24875 Potrero Valley Road
Phone:
619-478-2312
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.0

Colleges
Name:
Cuyamaca College
City:
El Cajon
State:
CA
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
8,600
Name:
San Diego State University
City:
San Diego
State:
CA
Distance:
37 miles
Students:
36,000
Healthcare
Residents of Potrero have access to major hospitals such as Sharp Grossmont Hospital and Scripps Mercy Hospital Chula Vista within a comfortable driving distance. The area enjoys a strong healthcare network with 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 89%. Healthcare services are reliable, making Potrero suitable for families and retirees.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Sharp Grossmont Hospital
Address:
5555 Grossmont Center Dr, La Mesa, CA 91942
Phone:
(619) 740-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Scripps Mercy Hospital Chula Vista
Address:
435 H St, Chula Vista, CA 91910
Phone:
(619) 691-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.0%
Health Care Index:
79.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Potrero, CA?
Potrero’s housing market offers a median home price of $475,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $1,650. With a homeownership rate of 56% and a low foreclosure rate of 0.6%, the area remains stable and attractive for buyers. Home values have appreciated by nearly 5% over the past year, reflecting steady demand.
Median Home Price:
$475,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.8%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Potrero residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles located in nearby El Cajon. The DMV provides full services for driver licensing, vehicle registration, and more, with convenient access by phone or online. This makes managing vehicle and licensing needs straightforward for local residents.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1450 Graves Ave, El Cajon, CA 92021
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.