Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Susanville, CA
Considering a move to Susanville, CA? This small city of about 15,000 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices at $203,000 and typical rents around $950. Susanville features a quick average commute of 15.7 minutes, abundant sunshine (75% sunny days), and access to local schools and Lassen Community College. Crime rates are higher than average, but the relaxed pace, low cost of housing, and nearby outdoor recreation make Susanville an attractive choice for those seeking small-town life in northeastern California.
Demographics - Susanville, CA
Demographics - Susanville, CA
Susanville is home to around 15,000 residents, with a population density of 1,100 people per square mile and a median age of 39.2 years. The community is predominantly White, with a significant male population and about 9% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. This diverse mix offers a small-town atmosphere with a range of backgrounds represented.
Population:
15,000
Density:
1,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.2
Gender Ratio:
160 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
69.7%
Black:
8.1%
Asian:
2.4%
Others:
19.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Susanville, CA?
Living in Susanville is relatively affordable compared to California averages, with median home values at $203,000 and typical rents near $950. Utility costs and transportation expenses are slightly above national averages, but the overall cost of living index is 94.5, making the city a budget-friendly option. Residents benefit from low housing costs and moderate grocery and healthcare prices.
Median House Value:
$203,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,400
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$360
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
94.5
Grocery:
98.2
Housing:
78.0
Utilities:
104.0
Transportation:
109.3
Health Care:
98.7
Miscellaneous:
98.0
Crime
Is Susanville, CA a safe place to live?
Susanville experiences higher crime rates than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 420 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 2,150 per 100,000. The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 238, while property crime risk is 1 in 47. While safety is a consideration, the city maintains a close-knit, small-town feel.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
420
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,150
Crime Index:
2,570
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 238
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Susanville, CA year-round?
Susanville enjoys four distinct seasons, featuring warm, dry summers with highs near 89°F and cold winters dipping to lows of 22°F. The area receives about 16 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 75% sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Spring and fall offer mild, pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring nearby natural attractions.

Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
41°F

Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
63°F

Summer
Min:
47°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
33°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
16.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
75%
Neighbors
Local residents typically earn a household income of $54,000, with a median income of $29,000 and a poverty rate of 17.8%. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and the unemployment rate stands at 7.2%. The community enjoys short commute times, low public transport usage, and a welcoming, small-town environment.
Median Income:
$29,000
Household Income:
$54,000
Family Income:
$64,000
Per Capita Income:
$17,500
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$30,000
Poverty Rate:
17.8%
Non English Speakers:
9.0%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
7.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
15.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
82.4%
Bachelors or More:
12.7%
Education
How are the schools in Susanville, CA?
Susanville offers a range of educational opportunities, including public schools like McKinley and Susanville Elementary, as well as the private Sacred Heart School. The city is also home to Lassen Community College, which serves over 1,400 students. Families benefit from accessible local schools and higher education options within the community.

Public Schools
Name:
McKinley Elementary School
Street:
1000 S St
Phone:
530-257-5161
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.5
Name:
Susanville Elementary School
Street:
109 S Gilman St
Phone:
530-257-8200
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.0

Private Schools
Name:
Sacred Heart School
Street:
134 North Union St
Phone:
530-257-2392
Students:
120

Colleges
Name:
Lassen Community College
City:
Susanville
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,400
Healthcare
Healthcare in Susanville is anchored by Banner Lassen Medical Center, offering general and emergency services to the community. With 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% health insurance coverage, basic medical needs are well supported locally. The city’s healthcare index of 68.3 reflects accessible care for most residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Banner Lassen Medical Center
Address:
1800 Spring Ridge Dr, Susanville, CA 96130
Phone:
(530) 252-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
68.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Susanville, CA?
Susanville’s housing market is characterized by affordable options, with a median home price of $203,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $950. Over 60% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a moderate rental vacancy rate of 6.5%. Home values have seen steady appreciation, making it attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$203,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
The local California Department of Motor Vehicles office serves Susanville residents at 2615 Main St, providing essential licensing and registration services. Accessible customer support is available by phone or online, making vehicle-related tasks convenient for newcomers. The DMV offers all standard services required for California drivers.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2615 Main St, Susanville, CA 96130
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.