Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Yuma, AZ
Considering a move to sunny Yuma, AZ? With a population of around 98,000, Yuma offers an affordable cost of living—median home prices at $251,000 and average rents at $1,170—paired with ultra-short 17-minute commutes. Enjoy 91% sunny days yearly and mild winters, though summers are hot. While property crime rates are above the national average, the city features convenient amenities, local colleges, and healthcare options. Yuma is a diverse, family-friendly community with lower-than-average housing costs and plenty of sunshine for your next adventure.
Demographics - Yuma, AZ
Yuma is a city of nearly 98,000 residents, characterized by a young median age of 32.2 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is notably diverse, with over 40% of the population speaking a language other than English at home and significant representation from multiple ethnic groups. This diversity brings a rich cultural atmosphere that newcomers often find welcoming and vibrant.
Population:
97,908
Density:
1,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
32.2
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
41.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
51.4%
Black:
3.1%
Asian:
1.8%
Others:
43.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Yuma, AZ?
Living in Yuma is generally affordable, with a median home value of $251,000 and average rent around $1,170. The cost of living index is below the national average, making housing and daily expenses manageable for most households. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, and state income taxes are relatively low, appealing to families and retirees alike.
Median House Value:
$251,000
Gross Rent:
$1,170
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,410
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.50%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.6
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
71.9
Utilities:
99.4
Transportation:
98.0
Health Care:
96.8
Miscellaneous:
94.3
Crime
Is Yuma, AZ a safe place to live?
Yuma experiences higher-than-average property crime, with a chance of 1 in 41 for such incidents, while violent crime remains less common at about 1 in 267. Overall, the city has a crime index of 2,812, which is something residents should consider when choosing neighborhoods. Many locals find that safety can vary by area, and taking standard precautions is advised.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
374
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,438
Crime Index:
2,812
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 267
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 41
Weather
What is the weather like in Yuma, AZ year-round?
Yuma boasts a sunny desert climate with about 91% sunny days annually and just 3.5 inches of rain, making it one of the sunniest cities in the U.S. Winters are mild, with highs in the low 70s, while summers are very hot, often exceeding 100°F. This weather is ideal for those who enjoy year-round sunshine and minimal rainfall.
Winter
Min:
46°F
Max:
71°F
Spring
Min:
57°F
Max:
88°F
Summer
Min:
78°F
Max:
107°F
Fall
Min:
62°F
Max:
91°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
3.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
91%
Neighbors
The city’s median household income is $54,600, and about 16% of residents live below the poverty line. Most neighbors have a high school diploma, and average commutes are short at just over 17 minutes. Yuma’s community is tight-knit, with a blend of working families, retirees, and a significant bilingual population.
Median Income:
$30,000
Household Income:
$54,600
Family Income:
$61,200
Per Capita Income:
$22,900
Income Male:
$30,900
Income Female:
$25,700
Poverty Rate:
16.4%
Non English Speakers:
41.3%
Rent:
$1,170
Unemployment Rate:
7.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
17.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.5%
Bachelors or More:
17.1%
Education
How are the schools in Yuma, AZ?
Yuma offers a range of educational opportunities, from public schools like Gila Ridge High to private options such as Yuma Catholic High School. Local higher education is available through Arizona Western College and the Yuma branch of Northern Arizona University, providing diverse academic paths. The city’s schools support a mix of student interests and career goals.
Public Schools
Name:
Gila Ridge High School
Street:
7150 E 24th St
Phone:
928-502-6400
Students:
2,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.1
Name:
Ron Watson Middle School
Street:
9851 E 28th St
Phone:
928-341-6800
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.5
Private Schools
Name:
Yuma Catholic High School
Street:
2100 W 28th St
Phone:
928-317-7902
Students:
390
Colleges
Name:
Arizona Western College
City:
Yuma
State:
AZ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
8,000
Name:
Northern Arizona University - Yuma Branch
City:
Yuma
State:
AZ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Yuma provides solid healthcare access with major facilities like Yuma Regional Medical Center and a local VA clinic. There are approximately 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, and about 85% of the population has health insurance. These resources make the city a practical choice for those who value accessible medical care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Yuma Regional Medical Center
Address:
2400 S Avenue A, Yuma, AZ 85364
Phone:
(928) 344-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Yuma VA Clinic
Address:
2555 E Gila Ridge Rd, Yuma, AZ 85365
Phone:
(928) 317-9973
Type:
Veterans Affairs Outpatient
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.4%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Yuma, AZ?
Yuma’s housing market features a median home price of $251,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of over 61%. Rental options are available, with two-bedroom units averaging $1,170 per month and a relatively high vacancy rate providing flexibility for newcomers. Home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, making it appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$251,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,170
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Yuma’s DMV services are provided by the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located on E Gila Ridge Rd. Residents can handle licensing, registration, and other vehicle needs at this office or online. The office is easily accessible and serves the entire Yuma area.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
2165 E Gila Ridge Rd, Yuma, AZ 85365
Phone:
1-800-251-5866
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.