Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Potter Valley, CA
Considering a move to Potter Valley, CA? This small, rural community of about 650 offers scenic tranquility, affordable home prices near $410,000, and median rents around $1,150. Residents enjoy a sunny climate with 71% sunny days each year and mild winters. Average commute times are manageable at 25 minutes, and local schools provide a close-knit educational setting. While the cost of living is slightly above the national average, the area’s relaxed pace and natural beauty appeal to those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Demographics - Potter Valley, CA
Demographics - Potter Valley, CA
Potter Valley is a small, close-knit community of around 650 residents, with a median age of 46.8 and a balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White (73%), with about a quarter identifying as Hispanic or Latino, reflecting modest diversity and a rural character.
Population:
650
Density:
49 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.8
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
16.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
73.0%
Black:
0.2%
Asian:
0.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Potter Valley, CA?
Living in Potter Valley comes with a cost of living index of 126.2, slightly higher than the national average. Median home values are around $410,000, and renters typically pay about $1,150 per month, making the area relatively affordable for Northern California.
Median House Value:
$410,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$180
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$670
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
126.2
Grocery:
113.5
Housing:
130.7
Utilities:
121.4
Transportation:
120.2
Health Care:
115.3
Miscellaneous:
109.5
Crime
Is Potter Valley, CA a safe place to live?
Potter Valley experiences low violent crime, with a rate of 271 per 100,000 people, but property crime is more common, giving residents a 1 in 52 chance of being affected. Overall, the area offers a generally safe environment, especially compared to urban centers.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
271
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,935
Crime Index:
2,206
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 369
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 52
Weather
What is the weather like in Potter Valley, CA year-round?
Residents of Potter Valley enjoy a mild Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers reaching up to 93°F and cool, wet winters with lows around 34°F. The area boasts 71% sunny days annually and receives nearly 40 inches of rainfall each year, perfect for those who appreciate four distinct seasons.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
56°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
93°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
71%
Neighbors
The community enjoys a median household income of $56,000 and a family income of $62,000, with about 14% living below the poverty line. Most adults have completed high school, and commute times average under 26 minutes, contributing to the area's relaxed, rural feel.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$56,000
Family Income:
$62,000
Per Capita Income:
$26,400
Income Male:
$32,100
Income Female:
$25,200
Poverty Rate:
14.2%
Non English Speakers:
16.5%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
5.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
25.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.7%
Bachelors or More:
22.1%
Education
How are the schools in Potter Valley, CA?
Potter Valley offers public elementary and junior high/high schools with small class sizes, fostering a personalized learning environment. Higher education is accessible at Mendocino College in Ukiah, just 17 miles away, providing local options for both K-12 and college-bound students.
Public Schools
Name:
Potter Valley Elementary School
Street:
10401 Main St
Phone:
707-743-1115
Students:
130
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.0
Name:
Potter Valley Junior High/High School
Street:
10401 Main St
Phone:
707-743-1142
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Colleges
Name:
Mendocino College
City:
Ukiah
State:
CA
Distance:
17 miles
Students:
3,100
Healthcare
Healthcare access is solid, with 92.7% of residents insured and the nearest major hospital, Adventist Health Ukiah Valley, just a short drive away. There are about 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring residents have essential medical services within reach.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Adventist Health Ukiah Valley
Address:
275 Hospital Dr, Ukiah, CA 95482
Phone:
(707) 462-3111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.7%
Health Care Index:
77.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Potter Valley, CA?
Potter Valley's housing market features a median home price of $410,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 69%. Home values have seen modest appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancies remain low, reflecting steady demand for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$410,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
69.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the California DMV office in nearby Ukiah, located at 2550 N State St. The office provides standard services for drivers and vehicle owners, with resources available both in person and online.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2550 N State St, Ukiah, CA 95482
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.