Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Solvang, CA
Considering a move to charming Solvang, CA? Home to about 6,100 residents, Solvang blends small-town warmth with wine country appeal. Expect a higher cost of living, with median home prices around $880,000 and rents near $2,200, balanced by low crime rates and quick commutes averaging 19 minutes. Enjoy excellent weather—79% sunny days—and reputable schools, making Solvang a standout for families and retirees seeking a vibrant, scenic California lifestyle.
Demographics - Solvang, CA
Demographics - Solvang, CA
Solvang is a small city of around 6,100 people, notable for its mature median age of 46 and a predominantly White and Hispanic population. Residents enjoy a close-knit community feel, with a moderate population density and a significant portion of non-English speakers, reflecting the area's cultural mix.
Population:
6,126
Density:
2,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.2
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
16.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
80.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
2.8%
Others:
11.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Solvang, CA?
The cost of living in Solvang is above the national average, largely due to high housing expenses, with median home values at $880,000 and average rents of $2,200 per month. Everyday costs like groceries, utilities, and healthcare also run higher than average, making budgeting essential for new residents.
Median House Value:
$880,000
Gross Rent:
$2,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,650
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$950
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
158.0
Grocery:
112.0
Housing:
220.0
Utilities:
110.0
Transportation:
138.0
Health Care:
113.0
Miscellaneous:
108.0
Crime
Is Solvang, CA a safe place to live?
Solvang offers a relatively low crime environment, with violent crime rates well below national averages and property crime remaining manageable. Residents have a 1 in 806 chance of experiencing violent crime, contributing to a strong sense of safety in the community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
124
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,230
Crime Index:
1,354
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 806
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 81
Weather
What is the weather like in Solvang, CA year-round?
Solvang boasts a pleasant climate, featuring mild winters, warm summers, and an impressive 79% of days filled with sunshine. Average annual rainfall is moderate at about 18 inches, making the city ideal for those who appreciate year-round outdoor living.
Winter
Min:
41°F
Max:
65°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
53°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
18.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
79%
Neighbors
The community enjoys a healthy median household income of nearly $91,000 and low unemployment at 3.7%. Most residents drive to work, benefiting from short average commutes of 19 minutes, while educational attainment is high, with over a third holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Median Income:
$44,800
Household Income:
$90,700
Family Income:
$102,000
Per Capita Income:
$44,200
Income Male:
$50,200
Income Female:
$39,800
Poverty Rate:
8.9%
Non English Speakers:
16.5%
Rent:
$2,200
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
19.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.9%
Bachelors or More:
36.8%
Education
How are the schools in Solvang, CA?
Solvang features well-regarded public and private schools, including Solvang Elementary and Santa Ynez Valley Christian Academy, plus local access to Allan Hancock College. Families benefit from small class sizes and a strong focus on educational attainment, with higher education opportunities nearby in Santa Barbara.
Public Schools
Name:
Solvang Elementary School
Street:
565 Atterdag Rd
Phone:
805-688-4812
Students:
640
Student Teacher Ratio:
21:1
Private Schools
Name:
Santa Ynez Valley Christian Academy
Street:
2734 Janin Way
Phone:
805-688-6477
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Allan Hancock College – Santa Ynez Valley Center
City:
Solvang
State:
CA
Distance:
1 mile
Students:
700
Name:
University of California, Santa Barbara
City:
Santa Barbara
State:
CA
Distance:
33 miles
Students:
26,000
Healthcare
Solvang is served by Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital, offering general and emergency care within the city. With 2.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% of the population insured, healthcare access is strong for a city of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital
Address:
2050 Viborg Rd, Solvang, CA 93463
Phone:
(805) 688-6431
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
75.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Solvang, CA?
The local housing market is competitive, with median home prices at $880,000 and rents averaging $2,200 for a two-bedroom. Owner occupancy is high at 60%, and the area has seen steady appreciation—making Solvang appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$880,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
60.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
DMV services for Solvang residents are managed by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Carpinteria. Residents can access a full range of DMV services online or by phone, with convenient options for vehicle registration and licensing.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3665 Via Real, Carpinteria, CA 93013
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.