Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sonoma, CA
Considering a move to Sonoma, CA? With a population of about 10,900, Sonoma offers a friendly small-town vibe, a mild Mediterranean climate with 80% sunny days, and renowned local wine country charm. The median home price is $900,000 and average rent is around $2,050, reflecting a high cost of living, but residents enjoy low violent crime rates, short 23-minute commutes, and strong public schools. Sonoma's blend of natural beauty, walkable downtown, and relaxed pace makes it perfect for those seeking a scenic, community-focused lifestyle.
Demographics - Sonoma, CA
Demographics - Sonoma, CA
Sonoma is home to approximately 10,900 residents, with a median age of 48.1 years, reflecting a mature and settled community. The population is predominantly White (74.2%), with a significant Hispanic or Latino presence (22.1%), and nearly one in five residents speaks a language other than English at home. This creates a diverse yet close-knit small-town atmosphere.
Population:
10,900
Density:
2,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.1
Gender Ratio:
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
17.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
74.2%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
1.6%
Others:
1.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sonoma, CA?
The cost of living in Sonoma is notably high, with a median home value of $900,000 and average rents around $2,050 per month. Expenses for housing, groceries, and utilities are all above the national average, making affordability a key consideration for new residents. State income taxes range from 1% to 13.3%, further impacting overall living costs.
Median House Value:
$900,000
Gross Rent:
$2,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$170
Auto Insurance:
$1,950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,250
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$900
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
174.2
Grocery:
124.7
Housing:
241.0
Utilities:
114.1
Transportation:
131.3
Health Care:
109.1
Miscellaneous:
112.5
Crime
Is Sonoma, CA a safe place to live?
Sonoma boasts relatively low crime rates, with just 97 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 1,030 chance of being a victim of violent crime. Property crime is somewhat more common, but overall, the city maintains a safe environment compared to many urban areas. Residents appreciate the community's reputation for safety and peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
97
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,520
Crime Index:
1,617
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,030
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 66
Weather
What is the weather like in Sonoma, CA year-round?
Sonoma enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers, cool winters, and about 80% sunny days each year. Average temperatures range from lows of 37°F in winter to highs of 86°F in summer, and the city receives roughly 30 inches of annual rainfall. This pleasant weather supports an active outdoor lifestyle and vibrant local vineyards.
Winter
Min:
37°F
Max:
59°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
30.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
80%
Neighbors
Sonoma residents have a median household income of $89,600 and a low poverty rate of 8.3%, contributing to a comfortable standard of living. The majority of adults hold at least a high school diploma, and commute times average a manageable 23 minutes. The community is known for its educational attainment and welcoming atmosphere.
Median Income:
$52,000
Household Income:
$89,600
Family Income:
$105,000
Per Capita Income:
$52,700
Income Male:
$58,000
Income Female:
$47,000
Poverty Rate:
8.3%
Non English Speakers:
17.3%
Rent:
$2,050
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.5%
Commute Time:
23.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.9%
Bachelors or More:
41.5%
Education
How are the schools in Sonoma, CA?
Sonoma is served by well-regarded public schools, including Sonoma Valley High School and Altimira Middle School, complemented by private options like Presentation School. The area also benefits from proximity to Santa Rosa Junior College, just 18 miles away, offering higher education opportunities. Families appreciate the community's focus on quality education at all levels.
Public Schools
Name:
Sonoma Valley High School
Street:
20000 Broadway
Phone:
707-933-4010
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
22:1
Name:
Altimira Middle School
Street:
17805 Arnold Dr
Phone:
707-935-6020
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
20:1
Private Schools
Name:
Presentation School
Street:
20872 Broadway
Phone:
707-935-0122
Students:
250
Colleges
Name:
Santa Rosa Junior College
City:
Santa Rosa
State:
CA
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
22,000
Healthcare
Sonoma offers quality healthcare services, anchored by Sonoma Valley Hospital, which provides emergency and general medical care. With 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 95% health insurance coverage, residents have strong access to medical resources. The local healthcare index reflects generally positive health outcomes.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sonoma Valley Hospital
Address:
347 Andrieux St, Sonoma, CA 95476
Phone:
(707) 935-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.7%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sonoma, CA?
The housing market in Sonoma is competitive, with a median home price of $900,000 and average two-bedroom rents around $2,300. Home ownership is common, with nearly 60% of homes owner-occupied, and vacancy rates remain low. The market has seen steady appreciation, making it attractive for both buyers and investors.
Median Home Price:
$900,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,300
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Sonoma residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in nearby Santa Rosa. The DMV provides essential services such as licensing and vehicle registration, and information is accessible online or by phone. Easy access to DMV resources supports convenient local transportation needs.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1043 2nd St, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
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.