Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Smith River, CA
Thinking of moving to Smith River, CA? With a small-town population of around 870 and affordable median home prices at $345,000, Smith River offers a relaxed, coastal lifestyle. The area enjoys mild temperatures year-round, over 70 inches of annual rainfall, and a reasonable average rent of $1,150. Commutes are short at under 20 minutes, and while local schools are small, the community is friendly and close-knit. Explore the natural beauty and slower pace of Smith River as you plan your next move.
Demographics - Smith River, CA
Demographics - Smith River, CA
Smith River is a small community of about 870 residents, featuring a balanced gender ratio and a median age of just over 40. The population is predominantly White, with a notable mix of other ethnic backgrounds and 18% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density fosters a quiet, rural atmosphere ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
870
Density:
200 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.2
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18%
Ethnic Composition
White:
60.5%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
2.1%
Others:
36.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Smith River, CA?
Living in Smith River is moderately priced, with a median home value around $345,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,150 per month. The cost of living index is slightly above the U.S. average, mainly due to higher transportation and housing costs, but utility expenses remain reasonable. Residents also benefit from relatively low property taxes, fitting the affordable coastal lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$345,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$550
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
111.0
Grocery:
108.0
Housing:
102.5
Utilities:
95.0
Transportation:
112.5
Health Care:
107.0
Miscellaneous:
104.0
Crime
Is Smith River, CA a safe place to live?
Smith River experiences a low rate of violent crime, with about 320 incidents per 100,000 people, and the chance of being a victim is about 1 in 312. Property crime is more common, but overall, safety is generally in line with small-town expectations. The crime index suggests a peaceful environment, making it suitable for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
320
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,450
Crime Index:
1,770
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 312
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 69
Weather
What is the weather like in Smith River, CA year-round?
The climate in Smith River is mild year-round, with cool summers averaging highs around 65°F and winters rarely dropping below 40°F. The area receives substantial rainfall—over 70 inches annually—and enjoys sunshine about 55% of the year, supporting lush landscapes. Residents benefit from comfortable outdoor conditions in every season.
Winter
Min:
40°F
Max:
55°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
50°F
Max:
65°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
73.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
55%
Neighbors
Smith River is a tight-knit community with a median household income of $54,000 and a poverty rate of 17.2%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the average commute is under 20 minutes, reflecting the town’s relaxed pace. Public transportation use is minimal, so most locals rely on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$32,000
Household Income:
$54,000
Family Income:
$62,000
Per Capita Income:
$23,500
Income Male:
$30,500
Income Female:
$27,800
Poverty Rate:
17.2%
Non English Speakers:
18%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
7.2%
Public Transport Usage:
1.5%
Commute Time:
19.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
83.7%
Bachelors or More:
17.5%
Education
How are the schools in Smith River, CA?
Smith River offers local schooling through Smith River Elementary, known for its small class sizes and close-knit environment. For higher education, the College of the Redwoods – Del Norte Campus is just 12 miles away, providing accessible opportunities for continued learning. The area’s schools reflect the community’s intimate, supportive atmosphere.
Public Schools
Name:
Smith River Elementary School
Street:
5185 Smith River Rd
Phone:
707-464-3191
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Colleges
Name:
College of the Redwoods – Del Norte Campus
City:
Crescent City
State:
CA
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Healthcare needs in Smith River are served by nearby facilities like Sutter Coast Hospital, offering emergency and general medical services. Health insurance coverage is high at nearly 90%, and the area maintains an average of 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents. Overall, basic healthcare access is reliable for a town of this size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sutter Coast Hospital
Address:
800 E Washington Blvd, Crescent City, CA 95531
Phone:
(707) 464-8511
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.2%
Health Care Index:
70.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Smith River, CA?
Smith River’s housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $345,000 and average rents at $1,150. The majority of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen modest appreciation, making it a stable choice for homebuyers. Rental vacancies are moderate, offering options for both renters and buyers.
Median Home Price:
$345,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
58.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
DMV services for Smith River residents are provided by the California Department of Motor Vehicles in nearby Crescent City. The office is conveniently located and offers a full range of licensing and registration services. Residents can access more information or schedule appointments via the California DMV website.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1487 Northcrest Dr, Crescent City, CA 95531
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.