Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Lake Tahoe, CA
Considering a move to South Lake Tahoe, CA? With a population of about 21,300, this scenic mountain city offers a relaxed pace, moderate commute times, and abundant sunshine—73% of days are sunny! Median home values are around $536,000, and median rent is $1,625, making it more affordable than many California resort towns. Crime rates are moderate, and residents enjoy access to outdoor recreation, good local schools, and a close-knit community. Explore all the details below to see if South Lake Tahoe is your next home.
Demographics - South Lake Tahoe, CA
Demographics - South Lake Tahoe, CA
South Lake Tahoe is home to approximately 21,330 residents with a median age of 40.2, reflecting a balanced mix of families and working adults. The community is predominantly White (70.5%) with a significant Hispanic or Latino presence (22.8%), and nearly one in five residents speak a language other than English at home. The population density and gender ratio indicate a vibrant yet relaxed small-city atmosphere.
Population:
21,330
Density:
1,050 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.2
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.7%
Ethnic Composition
White:
70.5%
Black:
0.9%
Asian:
2.3%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Lake Tahoe, CA?
Living in South Lake Tahoe comes with a higher cost of living index at 138.5, driven by a median home value of $536,000 and average rent of $1,625. Utilities, groceries, and transportation are also above the national average, but local property taxes remain moderate compared to other parts of California. Overall, residents can expect resort-town pricing with a range of housing options.
Median House Value:
$536,000
Gross Rent:
$1,625
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$170
Auto Insurance:
$1,850
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,240
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$780
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
138.5
Grocery:
118.7
Housing:
159.3
Utilities:
128.1
Transportation:
136.8
Health Care:
117.4
Miscellaneous:
110.5
Crime
Is South Lake Tahoe, CA a safe place to live?
South Lake Tahoe experiences moderate crime rates compared to national averages, with a 1 in 304 chance of being a victim of violent crime and property crime risk at 1 in 43. The city’s overall crime index of 2,640 suggests residents should remain vigilant but can generally feel secure. Local law enforcement is active in maintaining community safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
329
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,311
Crime Index:
2,640
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 304
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in South Lake Tahoe, CA year-round?
Residents enjoy a sunny climate with 73% of days featuring sunshine and roughly 19.4 inches of annual rainfall. Winters are cold with lows around 17°F, while summers are mild and pleasant, reaching highs of 80°F. The distinct four seasons make South Lake Tahoe ideal for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
29°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
41°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
27°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
19.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Local households in South Lake Tahoe have a median income of $59,820, and the area maintains a moderate poverty rate of 13.3%. Most residents commute less than 17 minutes, and nearly 90% have completed high school, reflecting a well-educated and close-knit community. Public transportation use is low, supporting the city’s relaxed, small-town feel.
Median Income:
$39,500
Household Income:
$59,820
Family Income:
$70,200
Per Capita Income:
$32,700
Income Male:
$36,800
Income Female:
$31,600
Poverty Rate:
13.3%
Non English Speakers:
18.7%
Rent:
$1,625
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
1.6%
Commute Time:
16.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.9%
Bachelors or More:
28.2%
Education
How are the schools in South Lake Tahoe, CA?
The city offers strong educational resources with public schools like South Tahoe High School and South Tahoe Middle School, both maintaining favorable student-teacher ratios. Private education is available at St. Theresa Catholic School, and higher education needs are met by Lake Tahoe Community College, serving nearly 2,900 students. These options ensure families have access to quality education from preschool through college.
Public Schools
Name:
South Tahoe High School
Street:
1735 Lake Tahoe Blvd
Phone:
530-541-4111
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.2
Name:
South Tahoe Middle School
Street:
2940 Lake Tahoe Blvd
Phone:
530-541-6404
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.1
Private Schools
Name:
St. Theresa Catholic School
Street:
1041 Lyons Ave
Phone:
530-544-4788
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Lake Tahoe Community College
City:
South Lake Tahoe
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,900
Healthcare
Healthcare access is solid, with Barton Memorial Hospital offering emergency and general services within the city. There are about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% of the population has health insurance, ensuring most people have reliable care. The healthcare index of 78.3 points to generally favorable local medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Barton Memorial Hospital
Address:
2170 South Ave, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Phone:
(530) 541-3420
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
78.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Lake Tahoe, CA?
The housing market features a median home price of $536,000 and average two-bedroom rent of $1,625, with about 45% of homes owner-occupied. Home appreciation has been steady at 3.2% over the past year, and the rental vacancy rate is 8.9%, providing potential opportunities for both buyers and renters. Foreclosure and new construction rates remain low, keeping the market stable.
Median Home Price:
$536,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,625
Owner Occupied Rate:
44.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
South Lake Tahoe residents can access vehicle and licensing services at the local California Department of Motor Vehicles branch on South Lake Tahoe Blvd. The office provides full DMV services and information is available online or by phone. Appointments are recommended for faster service.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3344 South Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
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.