Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Willits, CA
Thinking of moving to Willits, CA? This small city of about 4,800 residents offers an affordable lifestyle, with median home prices around $340,000 and average rents at $1,120. The area's crime rates are moderate, and commutes are short at just under 20 minutes on average. Enjoy a mild climate with 62% sunny days and easy access to local schools and healthcare. Willits is a great fit for those seeking small-town living amid California’s beautiful redwoods.
Demographics - Willits, CA
Demographics - Willits, CA
Willits is a close-knit community of about 4,800 residents, with a median age of 41 and a population density that gives it a small-town feel. The city is predominantly White, but also includes a diverse mix of backgrounds, with around 13% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. The gender balance is nearly even, making it a welcoming place for individuals and families alike.
Population:
4,778
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.7
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
12.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
75.3%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
22.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Willits, CA?
The cost of living in Willits is slightly higher than the national average, largely due to housing and utility costs, but still remains accessible for most budgets. Median home values are around $340,000 and typical rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,120, making it an affordable option compared to many California cities. Residents should also anticipate average monthly electricity costs of $185 and a moderate state tax range.
Median House Value:
$340,000
Gross Rent:
$1,120
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$185
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,750
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
116.2
Grocery:
110.5
Housing:
124.2
Utilities:
121.0
Transportation:
115.0
Health Care:
108.3
Miscellaneous:
105.8
Crime
Is Willits, CA a safe place to live?
Willits experiences moderate crime rates, with a chance of property crime at about 1 in 45 and violent crime at 1 in 333. While the overall crime index suggests some caution is warranted, most residents find the city to be safe and community-oriented. Proactive local law enforcement helps maintain a sense of security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
300
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,200
Crime Index:
2,500
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 333
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Willits, CA year-round?
Willits enjoys a mild climate with warm, dry summers that reach up to 89°F and cool winters with lows around 33°F. The city receives about 46 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 62% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Seasonal changes are noticeable, making it appealing to those who appreciate a variety of weather.
Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
55°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Residents of Willits tend to have modest incomes, with a median household income of about $44,000 and a poverty rate just above 20%. Most people have a high school diploma or higher, and the average commute is under 20 minutes, reflecting the city’s relaxed pace of life. The community values diversity and offers a friendly, small-town atmosphere.
Median Income:
$28,700
Household Income:
$43,900
Family Income:
$55,800
Per Capita Income:
$22,100
Income Male:
$32,900
Income Female:
$28,100
Poverty Rate:
20.8%
Non English Speakers:
12.6%
Rent:
$1,120
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
19.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.4%
Bachelors or More:
17.3%
Education
How are the schools in Willits, CA?
Willits offers a range of educational options, including public schools such as Willits High School and Brookside Elementary, both known for their supportive learning environments and reasonable class sizes. The city is also home to Willits Charter School, and higher education is accessible at Mendocino College’s Ukiah campus, located about 23 miles away. Families appreciate the community-focused schools and educational opportunities available in the area.
Public Schools
Name:
Willits High School
Street:
299 N Main St
Phone:
707-459-7700
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
18:1
Name:
Brookside Elementary School
Street:
20 Spruce St
Phone:
707-459-5385
Students:
380
Student Teacher Ratio:
20:1
Private Schools
Name:
Willits Charter School
Street:
1431 S Main St
Phone:
707-459-5506
Students:
200
Colleges
Name:
Mendocino College (Ukiah Campus)
City:
Ukiah
State:
CA
Distance:
23 miles
Students:
4,400
Healthcare
Willits provides solid healthcare access, anchored by Adventist Health Howard Memorial, a full-service hospital with emergency care. The city has 1.8 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% of locals have health insurance coverage. Residents appreciate reliable medical services close to home.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Adventist Health Howard Memorial
Address:
1 Marcela Dr, Willits, CA 95490
Phone:
(707) 459-6801
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.4%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Willits, CA?
The housing market in Willits is stable, with median home prices at $340,000 and a 59% homeownership rate, making it appealing for both buyers and renters. Average rents for a two-bedroom unit hover at $1,120, and vacancy rates remain moderate, providing good options for newcomers. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates add to the city's appeal for long-term residents.
Median Home Price:
$340,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,120
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Willits residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles office located in nearby Ukiah, just a short drive away. This DMV location provides full licensing and vehicle registration services, and appointments can be scheduled by phone or online. The proximity of the DMV makes it convenient for local drivers to manage their transportation needs.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2550 N State St, Ukiah, CA 95482
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.