California / Kern County

Moving to Ridgecrest, CA

Thinking of making a move to Ridgecrest, CA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ridgecrest, CA

Considering a move to Ridgecrest, CA? This welcoming community of 27,959 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $257,000 and average rents near $1,180. Commute times average 16 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (85% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Ridgecrest's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Ridgecrest, CA

Ridgecrest has a population of 27,959 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 35 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 68% White, 6% Black, and 6% Asian residents, and over 17% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
27,959
Density
1,400 per sq mi
Median Age
34.9
Gender Ratio
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
16.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
68.2%
Black
6.2%
Asian
6.0%
Others
19.6%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Ridgecrest, CA?

The cost of living in Ridgecrest is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 98.6. Median home values are around $257,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,180. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$257,000
Gross Rent
$1,180
Monthly Electricity Charges
$145
Auto Insurance
$1,450
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,450
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$430
State Taxes
Low: 1% (property)| High: 13.3% (income)
Cost Of Living Index
98.6
Grocery
104.0
Housing
82.0
Utilities
122.0
Transportation
102.0
Health Care
107.0
Miscellaneous
98.0

Crime

Is Ridgecrest, CA a safe place to live?

Ridgecrest is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 323 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 55. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in California.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
323
Property Crimes Per 100k
1,833
Crime Index
2,156
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 310
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 55

Weather

What is the weather like in Ridgecrest, CA year-round?

Ridgecrest experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 104°F and cold winters dipping to 30°F. The area receives about 5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 85% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
30°F
Max
62°F

Summer

Min
67°F
Max
104°F

Spring

Min
45°F
Max
80°F

Fall

Min
50°F
Max
85°F
Average Rainfall Inches
4.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
85%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $73,667 and a low poverty rate of 13.5%. Over 92% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 25% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 16 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$39,800
Household Income
$73,667
Family Income
$86,000
Per Capita Income
$32,600
Income Male
$50,000
Income Female
$44,800
Poverty Rate
13.5%
Non English Speakers
16.5%
Rent
$1,180
Unemployment Rate
6.5%
Public Transport Usage
0.7%
Commute Time
15.6 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
92.2%
Bachelors or More
24.5%

Education

How are the schools in Ridgecrest, CA?

Ridgecrest offers quality education options, with public schools like James Monroe Middle School and Faller Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Cerro Coso Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
James Monroe Middle School
Street
340 W Church Ave
Phone
760-499-1830
Students
700
Student Teacher Ratio
22.5
Name
Faller Elementary School
Street
1500 Upjohn Ave
Phone
760-499-1690
Students
450
Student Teacher Ratio
20.8

Private Schools

Name
Immanuel Christian School
Street
201 W Graaf Ave
Phone
760-446-6114
Students
110

Colleges

Name
Cerro Coso Community College
City
Ridgecrest
State
CA
Distance
0 miles
Students
5,000

Healthcare

Ridgecrest residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Ridgecrest Regional Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.7 per 1,000 people and 91.2% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Ridgecrest Regional Hospital
Address
1081 N China Lake Blvd, Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Phone
(760) 446-3551
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage
91.2%
Health Care Index
68.0

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Ridgecrest, CA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $257,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 57%. The market has seen a 4.1% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.8%. Ridgecrest offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$257,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$1,180
Owner Occupied Rate
57.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
4.1%
New Construction Rate
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate
0.3%

DMV Information

Residents of Ridgecrest handle vehicle services through the California Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Ridgecrest. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
California
Department
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address
826 N China Lake Blvd, Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Phone
1-800-777-0133

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.

FAQs About Moving to Ridgecrest, CA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Ridgecrest, review the core fields on this page: population 27,959, median home value $257,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,180, commute time 15.6 minutes, and sunny days percentage 85%.

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