Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Stockton, CA
Considering a move to Stockton, CA? With a population of over 322,000, Stockton offers affordable housing with a median home price around $420,000 and average rents at $1,550. The city enjoys 76% sunny days and a mild, Mediterranean climate, though crime rates are above the national average. Commute times average about 31 minutes. Stockton boasts diverse neighborhoods, a thriving university scene, and convenient healthcare access, making it an active and multicultural community for newcomers.
Demographics - Stockton, CA
Demographics - Stockton, CA
Stockton is a diverse city of over 322,000 residents, featuring a youthful median age of 33 and a balanced gender ratio. The community includes significant Asian, White, and Black populations, with more than a third of residents speaking a language other than English at home. High population density creates a vibrant, multicultural environment attractive to newcomers.
Population:
322,120
Density:
5,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
37.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
22.3%
Black:
12.5%
Asian:
22.5%
Others:
42.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Stockton, CA?
Stockton offers a relatively affordable lifestyle for California, with a median home value of $420,000 and average rents around $1,550. The cost of living index is somewhat above the national average, mainly due to housing and utilities, but daily expenses like groceries and healthcare remain competitive for the region. State taxes can vary widely depending on income, reflecting California's progressive tax structure.
Median House Value:
$420,000
Gross Rent:
$1,550
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$170
Auto Insurance:
$1,890
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,080
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$620
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
121.5
Grocery:
115.0
Housing:
127.2
Utilities:
124.6
Transportation:
118.4
Health Care:
109.1
Miscellaneous:
106.5
Crime
Is Stockton, CA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Stockton are higher than the national average, with residents facing a 1 in 72 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 29 chance of property crime. While these figures are significant, many neighborhoods remain safe and community-oriented. It's important for potential residents to research specific areas within the city when considering a move.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,397
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,442
Crime Index:
4,839
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 72
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 29
Weather
What is the weather like in Stockton, CA year-round?
Stockton enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters averaging 38–56°F and warm, dry summers from 60–94°F. Residents benefit from 76% sunny days annually and moderate rainfall around 17 inches, making outdoor activities possible year-round. Seasonal changes are gentle, supporting a comfortable lifestyle for most newcomers.

Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
56°F

Spring
Min:
47°F
Max:
74°F

Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
94°F

Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
17.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
76%
Neighbors
Stockton's neighborhoods reflect a wide range of incomes, with a typical household earning about $71,600 and a poverty rate of 17.4%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, though fewer hold college degrees. Commute times average just over 31 minutes, and public transit usage is limited, so many residents rely on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$26,800
Household Income:
$71,600
Family Income:
$76,600
Per Capita Income:
$27,400
Income Male:
$42,300
Income Female:
$36,100
Poverty Rate:
17.4%
Non English Speakers:
37.8%
Rent:
$1,550
Unemployment Rate:
6.9%
Public Transport Usage:
1.7%
Commute Time:
31.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
77.9%
Bachelors or More:
16.6%
Education
How are the schools in Stockton, CA?
Stockton offers a range of public and private educational options, including large high schools like Lincoln High and rigorous programs at Stockton Collegiate International. The city is also home to the University of the Pacific and San Joaquin Delta College, supporting a vibrant college community. Families benefit from diverse school choices and strong higher education resources.

Public Schools
Name:
Stockton Collegiate International Secondary School
Street:
321 E Weber Ave
Phone:
209-390-9861
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.4
Name:
Lincoln High School
Street:
6844 Alexandria Pl
Phone:
209-953-8920
Students:
2,900
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.7

Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary's High School
Street:
5648 N El Dorado St
Phone:
209-957-3340
Students:
900

Colleges
Name:
University of the Pacific
City:
Stockton
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
6,400
Name:
San Joaquin Delta College
City:
Stockton
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
18,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to major hospitals like St. Joseph's Medical Center and San Joaquin General Hospital, both offering comprehensive emergency services. Health insurance coverage is high at nearly 90%, and there are about 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people. Stockton's healthcare system is robust and conveniently located for families and individuals alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
St. Joseph's Medical Center
Address:
1800 N. California St, Stockton, CA 95204
Phone:
(209) 943-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
San Joaquin General Hospital
Address:
500 W Hospital Rd, French Camp, CA 95231
Phone:
(209) 468-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.4%
Health Care Index:
73.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Stockton, CA?
The Stockton housing market is balanced, with a median home price of $420,000 and a 50% owner-occupancy rate. Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,550, and the area has seen moderate home appreciation of nearly 5% over the past year. Vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, offering stability for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$420,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,550
Owner Occupied Rate:
50.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Stockton's local DMV office provides all standard vehicle registration and licensing services as part of the California Department of Motor Vehicles network. Conveniently located on S. Lincoln Street, residents can access in-person services or use the DMV's comprehensive online portal for many transactions. The office is well-equipped to assist new arrivals getting settled in the city.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
55 S. Lincoln Street, Stockton, CA 95203
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.