Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Vista, CA
Thinking of moving to Vista, CA? With a population just over 100,000, Vista offers a welcoming community and a sunny Mediterranean climate, averaging 69% sunny days each year. The median home price is around $705,000, with average rents for two-bedrooms at $2,350, making it a bit pricier than national averages but typical for coastal California. Crime rates are moderate, commute times average 29 minutes, and the city features diverse schools, convenient healthcare, and easy access to beaches, parks, and regional colleges. Explore the full report below to see if Vista fits your lifestyle.
Demographics - Vista, CA
Vista is home to approximately 101,600 residents, with a relatively young median age of 34.6 and a balanced gender ratio. The city boasts a diverse population, with nearly half identifying as White and a significant portion speaking languages other than English at home. This blend creates a vibrant multicultural atmosphere attractive to newcomers.
Population:
101,638
Density:
5,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.6
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
36%
Ethnic Composition
White:
45.7%
Black:
2.2%
Asian:
4.6%
Others:
47.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Vista, CA?
Living in Vista comes with a higher cost of living, reflected in the median home value of $705,000 and average monthly rent of $2,350 for a two-bedroom apartment. Expenses such as utilities and transportation are also above the national average, typical for coastal Southern California. Residents should expect higher housing and grocery prices, balanced by access to desirable amenities.
Median House Value:
$705,000
Gross Rent:
$2,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,850
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$800
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
151.6
Grocery:
113.8
Housing:
203.7
Utilities:
109.2
Transportation:
130.1
Health Care:
112.0
Miscellaneous:
109.5
Crime
Is Vista, CA a safe place to live?
Vista experiences moderate crime rates for the region, with a chance of encountering property crime at about 1 in 62 and violent crime at 1 in 413. While generally considered safe, it's wise for residents to take standard precautions. The city’s overall crime index remains below many urban California areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
242
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,612
Crime Index:
1,854
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 413
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 62
Weather
What is the weather like in Vista, CA year-round?
Vista enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with summer highs around 82°F and winter lows rarely dipping below 44°F. The area receives nearly 14 inches of rain annually and boasts about 69% sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. Comfortable temperatures and abundant sunshine are key draws for residents.
Winter
Min:
44°F
Max:
68°F
Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
69%
Neighbors
Vista's neighborhoods are diverse and family-friendly, with a median household income of $86,200 and a poverty rate of 12.2%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and the community enjoys a reasonable average commute of about 29 minutes. The area appeals to professionals and families seeking both opportunity and a strong sense of community.
Median Income:
$39,300
Household Income:
$86,200
Family Income:
$98,400
Per Capita Income:
$33,300
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$36,600
Poverty Rate:
12.2%
Non English Speakers:
36%
Rent:
$2,350
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
1.9%
Commute Time:
28.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.6%
Bachelors or More:
26.5%
Education
How are the schools in Vista, CA?
Vista offers a range of educational opportunities, with public schools like Vista High School and Rancho Minerva Middle School, as well as private options such as Calvin Christian School. The city is close to higher education institutions including California State University San Marcos and MiraCosta College, both within a short drive. This makes Vista an attractive choice for families and students seeking quality education.
Public Schools
Name:
Vista High School
Street:
1 Panther Way
Phone:
760-726-5611
Students:
2,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
23:1
Name:
Rancho Minerva Middle School
Street:
2245 Foothill Dr
Phone:
760-631-4500
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
21:1
Private Schools
Name:
Calvin Christian School
Street:
2000 N. Broadway
Phone:
760-747-1419
Students:
400
Colleges
Name:
California State University San Marcos
City:
San Marcos
State:
CA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
14,600
Name:
MiraCosta College
City:
Oceanside
State:
CA
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
13,000
Healthcare
Residents of Vista have convenient access to major hospitals like Tri-City Medical Center and Palomar Medical Center, both offering comprehensive emergency and general care. With about 2.5 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, healthcare services are accessible and reliable. The city’s healthcare infrastructure supports a healthy, active lifestyle.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Tri-City Medical Center
Address:
4002 Vista Way, Oceanside, CA 92056
Phone:
(760) 724-8411
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Palomar Medical Center
Address:
2185 Citracado Pkwy, Escondido, CA 92029
Phone:
(442) 281-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.7%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Vista, CA?
Vista's housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $705,000 and strong demand reflected in a low rental vacancy rate of 4.6%. Over half of the homes are owner-occupied, and home values have appreciated by nearly 6% over the past year. The market favors buyers and renters seeking long-term stability in a desirable location.
Median Home Price:
$705,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
51.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.9%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vista residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles branch in nearby Oceanside, offering all standard licensing and registration services. The office is conveniently located and accessible by phone or online through the state DMV website. This ensures efficient handling of vehicle and driver needs for local residents.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
4005 Plaza Dr, Oceanside, CA 92056
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.