Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Willows, CA
Thinking of moving to Willows, CA? This welcoming small city of 6,015 offers affordable living with a median home price around $260,000 and average rents of $1,050. Residents enjoy short commutes of about 17 minutes, a sunny Mediterranean climate with 80% sunny days, and easy access to local healthcare. While crime rates are slightly above national averages, Willows provides a relaxed pace, family-friendly schools, and a tight-knit community feel—ideal for those seeking small-town charm in Northern California.
Demographics - Willows, CA
Demographics - Willows, CA
Willows is a close-knit community of about 6,000 residents, with a median age of nearly 37 and a balanced gender ratio. The city is diverse, with over 29% of residents speaking a language other than English and a majority identifying as White, alongside a significant mix of other backgrounds. The population density provides a small-town feel while still offering a lively local culture.
Population:
6,015
Density:
1,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.9
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
29.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
60.4%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
2.0%
Others:
36.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Willows, CA?
Willows offers a cost of living slightly below the national average, with a median home value of $260,000 and typical rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,050. Utility and grocery costs are modest, making the city an attractive option for those seeking affordability in Northern California. State taxes range widely, but overall expenses remain manageable for most households.
Median House Value:
$260,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,400
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,375
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$425
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
96.0
Grocery:
103.5
Housing:
82.0
Utilities:
111.0
Transportation:
99.0
Health Care:
104.0
Miscellaneous:
98.0
Crime
Is Willows, CA a safe place to live?
Willows experiences crime rates somewhat above national averages, with a 1 in 350 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 65 chance of property crime. While the community is generally considered safe, newcomers should remain mindful of basic safety precautions. The city's overall crime index reflects the need for awareness without being cause for major concern.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
285
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,550
Crime Index:
1,835
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 350
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 65
Weather
What is the weather like in Willows, CA year-round?
Willows enjoys a sunny Mediterranean climate, experiencing around 80% sunny days each year. Summers are hot, reaching up to 97°F, while winters are mild with lows around 37°F, and the area receives about 19.5 inches of rainfall annually. The consistently pleasant weather supports an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
37°F
Max:
57°F
Spring
Min:
47°F
Max:
77°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
97°F
Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
81°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
19.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
80%
Neighbors
Residents in Willows have a median household income of $54,500 and a family income of $61,300, with a poverty rate of 17.2%. The community is moderately educated, with about 76% holding at least a high school diploma, and enjoys short average commute times of just over 17 minutes. Public transportation use is minimal, reflecting the city's small-town character and reliance on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$34,000
Household Income:
$54,500
Family Income:
$61,300
Per Capita Income:
$22,700
Income Male:
$37,000
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
17.2%
Non English Speakers:
29.5%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
7.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
17.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
75.6%
Bachelors or More:
12.1%
Education
How are the schools in Willows, CA?
Willows offers a range of educational options, including public schools like Willows High School and Murdock Elementary, both with favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Private education is available at St. Monica School, and higher education needs are met with Butte College’s Glenn County Center just 16 miles away. The city's schools foster a supportive environment for families and lifelong learners.
Public Schools
Name:
Willows High School
Street:
203 N Murdock Ave
Phone:
530-934-6611
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.9
Name:
Murdock Elementary School
Street:
655 French St
Phone:
530-934-6640
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
21.3
Private Schools
Name:
St. Monica School
Street:
214 W Walnut St
Phone:
530-934-2878
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Butte College (Glenn County Center)
City:
Orland
State:
CA
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
600
Healthcare
Willows is served by Glenn Medical Center, a general hospital offering emergency services and a range of healthcare options. The city has about 1.1 physicians per 1,000 residents, and over 86% of locals have health insurance coverage. Access to medical care is convenient for a city of this size, supporting residents' wellbeing.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Glenn Medical Center
Address:
1133 W Sycamore St, Willows, CA 95988
Phone:
(530) 934-1800
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.5%
Health Care Index:
79.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Willows, CA?
The Willows housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $260,000 and a homeownership rate just above 54%. Renters find reasonable options, and the city's vacancy and foreclosure rates are low, indicating a stable and accessible market. Home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, making it a practical place for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$260,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.5%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Willows residents can access full DMV services at the local California Department of Motor Vehicles office on N Butte Street. The office provides licensing, registration, and vehicle services, making it easy for locals to handle transportation paperwork close to home. Information and appointments are available through the California DMV's official website and hotline.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
207 N Butte St, Willows, CA 95988
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.