Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Upper Lake, CA
Considering a move to Upper Lake, CA? This friendly town of about 1,020 people offers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere paired with affordable living—median home prices are around $289,000 and average rents are about $1,020. Residents enjoy over 70% sunny days a year and short commute times, with the average drive just 23 minutes. Crime rates are lower than many urban areas, and while the area’s education attainment is modest, families benefit from a close-knit school community. Explore more about Upper Lake’s relaxed lifestyle, local amenities, and housing options below.
Demographics - Upper Lake, CA
Demographics - Upper Lake, CA
Upper Lake is a small community of about 1,020 residents with a median age of 39.3 and a nearly even gender ratio. The town has a predominantly White population, but about 26% identify with other backgrounds, and 16.5% speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density and diverse mix create a welcoming, close-knit atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
1,020
Density:
1,080 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.3
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
16.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
72.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
25.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Upper Lake, CA?
With median home values around $289,000 and average rents at $1,020, Upper Lake offers relatively affordable living compared to much of California. The overall cost of living index is close to the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families. Utilities and groceries are slightly above average, but housing and transportation remain cost-effective.
Median House Value:
$289,000
Gross Rent:
$1,020
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,380
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,480
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.2
Grocery:
103.9
Housing:
92.5
Utilities:
108.3
Transportation:
94.2
Health Care:
102.4
Miscellaneous:
99.6
Crime
Is Upper Lake, CA a safe place to live?
Upper Lake experiences lower violent crime rates than many urban areas, with a 1 in 405 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime. Property crime is more common, with odds of 1 in 58, but overall the town maintains a safe, small-town feel. Residents benefit from a sense of security while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
247
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,732
Crime Index:
1,979
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 405
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 58
Weather
What is the weather like in Upper Lake, CA year-round?
Residents of Upper Lake enjoy a mild climate with warm, sunny summers reaching up to 94°F and cool winters with lows around 33°F. The area receives nearly 30 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 73% sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate clear, comfortable weather year-round. Seasonal changes bring pleasant variety without extreme conditions.

Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
54°F

Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
73°F

Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
94°F

Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
29.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Upper Lake’s community features a median household income of $49,300 and a poverty rate of 18.2%. Most residents commute about 23 minutes to work, and public transportation use is minimal. The area is friendly and welcoming, with a majority holding at least a high school diploma and enjoying affordable rent options.
Median Income:
$32,100
Household Income:
$49,300
Family Income:
$54,700
Per Capita Income:
$21,900
Income Male:
$38,100
Income Female:
$27,800
Poverty Rate:
18.2%
Non English Speakers:
16.5%
Rent:
$1,020
Unemployment Rate:
7.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
23.3 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
83.1%
Bachelors or More:
13.2%
Education
How are the schools in Upper Lake, CA?
The local Upper Lake Unified School serves about 430 students and offers a supportive environment with a student-teacher ratio of 17.5. While there are no private schools in town, families have access to Woodland Community College’s Lake County campus just 30 miles away. The community values education and provides resources for learners of all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Upper Lake Unified School
Street:
675 Clover Valley Rd
Phone:
707-275-2655
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5

Colleges
Name:
Woodland Community College – Lake County Campus
City:
Clearlake
State:
CA
Distance:
30 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
Healthcare in Upper Lake is accessible, with coverage for 86.4% of residents and about 1.2 physicians per 1,000 people. Sutter Lakeside Hospital in nearby Lakeport provides emergency and surgical services, ensuring quality care close to home. The town’s healthcare index reflects reliable local medical services for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Sutter Lakeside Hospital
Address:
5176 Hill Road East, Lakeport, CA 95453
Phone:
(707) 262-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.4%
Health Care Index:
67.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Upper Lake, CA?
Upper Lake’s housing market is stable, with a median home price of $289,000 and a strong owner-occupied rate of 56.8%. Average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are around $1,020, and the area has a low foreclosure rate, making it appealing for both buyers and renters. Modest home appreciation and new construction rates suggest a steady, balanced real estate market.
Median Home Price:
$289,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,020
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Upper Lake can access vehicle and licensing services at the California DMV office located in nearby Lakeport. The office provides a full range of DMV services and is easily reachable for local drivers. Information and appointments are available through the California DMV website or by phone.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
965 Parallel Drive, Lakeport, CA 95453
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.