Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Valley Ford, CA
Considering a move to Valley Ford, CA? This charming rural community of just 146 residents offers a quiet lifestyle with a median home price of $825,000 and average rents around $2,150. Residents enjoy mild weather with 69% sunny days per year, low violent crime rates, and short commute times averaging 27 minutes. While local amenities are limited, nearby Sonoma County provides access to quality healthcare and educational options, making Valley Ford ideal for those seeking tranquil living near the California coast.
Demographics - Valley Ford, CA
Demographics - Valley Ford, CA
Valley Ford is a small rural community of just 146 residents, characterized by a predominantly White population and a median age of 52.3 years, reflecting a mature demographic. The area has a low population density and a balanced gender ratio, with about 14% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its peaceful, close-knit environment appeals to those seeking a quiet, slower-paced lifestyle.
Population:
146
Density:
50 per sq mi
Median Age:
52.3
Gender Ratio:
103 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
14.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
82.0%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
18.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Valley Ford, CA?
Living in Valley Ford comes with a high cost of living, with a median home price of $825,000 and average rents around $2,150 per month. The cost of living index is 160.3, well above the national average, mainly due to expensive housing. Utilities and other essentials are also slightly higher than average, making affordability a consideration for newcomers.
Median House Value:
$825,000
Gross Rent:
$2,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,650
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$820
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
160.3
Grocery:
118.6
Housing:
238.0
Utilities:
113.8
Transportation:
127.4
Health Care:
114.2
Miscellaneous:
110.7
Crime
Is Valley Ford, CA a safe place to live?
Valley Ford enjoys a low violent crime rate, with just 112 incidents per 100,000 people, offering residents a strong sense of safety. Property crime is more common but still moderate, with a 1 in 83 chance of occurrence. Overall, the community provides a peaceful and secure environment for residents.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
112
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,210
Crime Index:
1,322
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 892
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 83
Weather
What is the weather like in Valley Ford, CA year-round?
Valley Ford experiences mild, coastal weather throughout the year, with summer highs typically around 75°F and winter lows near 39°F. The area receives about 31 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 69% sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate a temperate climate. The pleasant weather encourages outdoor activities and a relaxed lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
39°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
75°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
69%
Neighbors
The community's median household income is $74,000, with a poverty rate just over 10%, reflecting a modest but stable local economy. Most residents commute about 27 minutes to work, and public transportation use is minimal. Education levels are high, with over 92% having at least a high school diploma, contributing to a well-educated neighborhood vibe.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$74,000
Family Income:
$80,000
Per Capita Income:
$33,400
Income Male:
$39,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
10.2%
Non English Speakers:
14.2%
Rent:
$2,150
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
27.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.0%
Bachelors or More:
34.8%
Education
How are the schools in Valley Ford, CA?
Valley Ford offers a small public elementary school with low student-to-teacher ratios, providing personalized attention for young learners. For higher education, residents are within easy driving distance of Santa Rosa Junior College and Sonoma State University, which offer a wide range of programs and opportunities. The area’s educational resources make it suitable for families and continuing learners.
Public Schools
Name:
Bodega Bay Elementary School
Street:
1200 Canon St
Phone:
707-875-2729
Students:
45
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.2
Colleges
Name:
Santa Rosa Junior College
City:
Santa Rosa
State:
CA
Distance:
23 miles
Students:
22,000
Name:
Sonoma State University
City:
Rohnert Park
State:
CA
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
8,600
Healthcare
Valley Ford residents have convenient access to nearby hospitals, including Sonoma Valley Hospital and Petaluma Valley Hospital, both offering emergency services. With 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% health insurance coverage, healthcare needs are well supported. The area’s healthcare index indicates above-average access and quality for a small community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sonoma Valley Hospital
Address:
347 Andrieux St, Sonoma, CA 95476
Phone:
(707) 935-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Petaluma Valley Hospital
Address:
400 N McDowell Blvd, Petaluma, CA 94954
Phone:
(707) 778-1111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.5%
Health Care Index:
79.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Valley Ford, CA?
The housing market in Valley Ford is marked by high demand, with a median home price of $825,000 and owner-occupancy at nearly 60%. Rental options are limited but available, with average rents for a two-bedroom around $2,150. The area has seen modest home appreciation over the past year, making it attractive for long-term investment.
Median Home Price:
$825,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents of Valley Ford are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles located in nearby Santa Rosa, offering a full range of licensing and vehicle registration services. The DMV is easily accessible by phone or online for appointments and information. This convenient location supports the practical needs of local drivers.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1377 Fulton Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
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.