Reasons to Move to California City, California

California City, located in the heart of California’s Mojave Desert, offers an incredible opportunity for those seeking a peaceful, expansive environment with the potential for growth. With over 200 square miles of land, it’s one of the largest cities in the state by area, providing ample space for new development and outdoor exploration. The city’s proximity to both the natural wonders of the desert and larger metropolitan areas like Lancaster and Bakersfield ensures a unique blend of seclusion and convenience. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor activities like hiking, off-roading, or stargazing, or looking for a quieter, more affordable alternative to the fast-paced life in other California cities, California City presents a distinctive lifestyle.

What makes California City especially appealing is its commitment to future growth and infrastructure development. With plans for new residential, commercial, and recreational projects, the city offers a sense of possibility for families and individuals looking to settle in an evolving community. The cost of living remains significantly lower than in nearby urban areas, while still providing access to essential amenities and a growing job market. The city’s location near key highways, such as the 14 Freeway, also makes commuting relatively straightforward. California City may not be for everyone, but for those ready to embrace its unique advantages, it’s a place where one can carve out their own space and be part of something expanding.

Cost to Move to California City, California

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Cost of living in California City, California

Housing Costs

The median home price in California City as of 2023 is approximately $230,000, which is well below the state average of around $800,000. This affordability makes it an attractive option for those seeking homeownership in California without the exorbitant prices found in major cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco. For renters, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in California City is around $1,000, while a three-bedroom apartment typically rents for about $1,200 per month. These prices are significantly lower than the California state average, making housing in California City accessible for many. For more detailed housing statistics, visit Zillow.

Utilities

The average monthly cost of utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) in California City is approximately $250 for a standard 915-square-foot apartment. This includes services such as electricity, heating, water, and garbage collection, with rates that tend to be lower than those in more densely populated urban areas. The cost of electricity is one of the largest components, with rates in California generally higher than the national average, but still manageable in California City due to less demand compared to larger urban areas. For more details, you can check out Numbeo.

Groceries/Food

Grocery prices in California City tend to be slightly lower than in California’s coastal cities. A basic grocery shopping list, including items like milk, bread, eggs, chicken, and vegetables, can cost around $350 per month for an individual. For a family of four, grocery expenses may total approximately $1,200 per month. Prices can vary depending on where you shop, but California City benefits from its relative proximity to larger supply centers, helping to keep costs in check. For more information on grocery costs in California City, check Numbeo.

Transportation

Transportation costs in California City are lower compared to major urban centers. The average price of gasoline as of 2023 is approximately $4.60 per gallon, which is fairly typical for California. However, with its proximity to major highways such as Highway 14, residents can enjoy easy access to larger cities while maintaining lower transportation costs. A typical car owner in California City spends about $100-$150 per month on gasoline, depending on commute frequency. Additionally, California City does not have a large public transportation network, so owning a vehicle is typically necessary. For more information on transportation costs, visit Numbeo.

Healthcare

Healthcare costs in California City are in line with the general pricing trends across California. A visit to a general practitioner in California City may cost around $130 without insurance, while more specialized services or treatments can run higher. Monthly health insurance premiums for an individual in California can range from $350 to $500, depending on the plan and provider. For families, premiums may range from $1,200 to $2,000 per month. These rates reflect the state’s high healthcare costs but are still more affordable compared to larger urban areas like Los Angeles. For more details, check out HealthCare.gov.

Childcare and Education

Childcare costs in California City are typically lower than those in urban centers, with daycare for infants costing between $700 and $1,000 per month. For older children, after-school programs and care may range from $300 to $600 per month. Public education in California City is handled by the Mojave Unified School District, which is free for residents. However, families might choose to pay for private schooling or special educational programs, which can cost between $5,000 and $10,000 annually. For more detailed information on schooling costs, visit Niche.

Taxes

California City residents are subject to the state’s sales tax rate of 7.25%, which is one of the highest in the country. Additionally, property taxes in California are based on the purchase price of the property and are generally capped at 1% of the home’s value, plus any voter-approved local taxes. For those earning an income, the state income tax ranges from 1% to 13.3%, depending on income brackets. For more details on taxes in California, visit Tax Foundation.

Insurance

Car insurance premiums in California City tend to be slightly lower than in larger cities, with the average premium for a standard car being around $1,300 per year. Homeowners insurance typically costs about $800 to $1,200 annually, depending on the value of the home and coverage options. Health insurance premiums, as mentioned earlier, can vary greatly depending on the plan. For more details on insurance rates in California, check out ValuePenguin.

Recreation and Entertainment

Recreation and entertainment costs in California City are lower than in coastal or metropolitan areas. A gym membership typically costs around $30 to $50 per month, and movie tickets cost about $12 to $15 each. The city offers several parks and outdoor areas for free, while nearby recreational areas such as the Red Rock Canyon State Park offer low-cost entry fees, typically under $10 per vehicle. For more information on recreation and entertainment, visit Numbeo.

Clothing

The cost of clothing in California City is comparable to other regions in California, with basic clothing items such as jeans costing around $40-$50 and T-shirts typically ranging from $15 to $30. For seasonal clothing, residents can expect to pay slightly less due to the more affordable retail options in and around the city. For more details, you can visit Numbeo.

Personal Care

Personal care services, such as haircuts, are reasonably priced in California City, with a basic men’s or women’s haircut averaging around $20 to $30. Other personal care items, such as toiletries and cosmetics, can cost about $50 to $100 per month depending on the individual’s needs and preferences. For more detailed personal care information, check out Numbeo.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Miscellaneous expenses in California City include costs for things like entertainment, eating out, and other lifestyle choices. A meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $30 per person, and monthly internet service typically costs $60 to $70. These costs are generally lower than in large metropolitan areas but remain competitive for residents looking for a balance of affordability and quality. For more details, visit Numbeo.

Is California City, California a safe place to live – Crime Rates?

Crime Rate

The overall crime rate in California City is relatively low compared to other parts of California. According to the most recent data from the NeighborhoodScout, the city’s crime rate is lower than the national average. The overall crime rate is about 25.91 per 1,000 residents, which indicates a moderate crime environment. While California City is not devoid of crime, it remains a safer option than larger urban areas in California. However, for residents considering a move, it’s important to look at specific neighborhoods and crime types to get a clearer picture of personal safety.

Violent Crime Rate

Violent crime in California City is relatively low compared to the national average. The violent crime rate in the city is approximately 1.7 incidents per 1,000 residents, according to data from NeighborhoodScout. This is significantly lower than the California state average, which hovers around 4.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. While no area is completely free from violent crime, California City offers a more secure environment in this regard, making it an attractive option for those seeking a quiet and relatively safe place to live.

Property Crime Rate

Property crime in California City, as of the most recent data, is slightly higher than the national average, but still much lower than the rates found in many larger cities. According to the NeighborhoodScout, the property crime rate is about 24.21 per 1,000 residents. This includes crimes such as burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft. While the property crime rate is a concern, it is important to note that California City is still considered safer than many urban areas in California where property crime rates can be much higher.

Police Presence

California City is served by the California City Police Department, which is responsible for maintaining public safety. The police presence in California City is not as high as in larger cities, but the department is committed to ensuring the safety of residents. With a smaller population, the police department is able to focus on building closer ties with the community. The police force engages in various community outreach programs to maintain trust and safety, though some residents may feel the need for more robust law enforcement given the city’s geographical size. More information on the police department can be found at the California City Police Department website.

Neighborhood Watch Programs

California City has a small, active community, and neighborhood watch programs have been reported in several areas. These programs are typically organized at the local level, where residents collaborate with the police department to prevent crime and foster a sense of security. While there is no city-wide, formal neighborhood watch program, smaller initiatives exist, and the police department encourages residents to be vigilant. For more details, you can check with the local police station or community centers for specific neighborhood watch groups. The California City Police Department provides resources for community safety and organizing such efforts.

Safety Rankings

California City ranks as a relatively safe location compared to many other areas in California. Based on crime data and safety indices, California City often falls within the top 40% of safer cities in California. According to data from NeighborhoodScout, the city has a crime index of 45 out of 100, where 100 represents the safest communities. This puts it in a safer range compared to much of the state, though not without its crime concerns. The relatively low violent crime rate and moderate property crime rates contribute to its generally good safety ranking.

Trend Data

The crime trend in California City has shown fluctuations over the years, with a slight increase in property crimes but a steady low level of violent crime. The city’s commitment to growth and development may impact future crime trends, as more people move in, which can sometimes increase both property and violent crime rates. However, efforts by local law enforcement and community organizations to improve safety continue to stabilize these trends. For a detailed look at crime trends over the past decade, check out the NeighborhoodScout website.

School Safety

Schools in California City, which fall under the Mojave Unified School District, generally have good safety measures in place. The district has security protocols and emergency response plans to ensure student safety. However, like many smaller districts, there are fewer resources for school safety compared to urban districts. According to the latest available data, there have been no significant safety incidents reported at schools in California City. The district is proactive in maintaining a safe environment for students. For more information on school safety, visit the Mojave Unified School District website.

What are the demographics of California City, California?

White

As of the most recent data from the United States Census Bureau, approximately 63.6% of California City’s population identifies as White. This is higher than the national average for white residents, contributing to the city’s relatively homogeneous racial demographic, though there is considerable diversity in the area.

Black or African American

Approximately 14.8% of California City’s population identifies as Black or African American, based on the latest data from the United States Census Bureau. This percentage reflects the diversity of the area, with African American residents making up a significant portion of the community.

Hispanic or Latino

Hispanic or Latino individuals make up about 33.3% of the population in California City, according to the United States Census Bureau. This group is one of the largest demographic sectors in California City, reflecting the state’s broader trends of Hispanic and Latino populations in both rural and urban areas.

Two or More Races

The percentage of residents in California City identifying as Two or More Races stands at about 2.6%, according to data from the United States Census Bureau. This statistic shows a smaller proportion of mixed-race individuals compared to other racial groups, though it reflects the broader diversity seen in California as a whole.

Asian

As of the most recent census data, Asians make up about 1.4% of California City’s population, according to the United States Census Bureau. This percentage is relatively small compared to other racial groups in the area but aligns with the general trend of lower Asian populations in smaller, more rural communities in California.

Native American

Native American residents in California City represent around 0.6% of the population, based on the latest available data from the United States Census Bureau. This percentage is relatively low compared to other racial categories but still contributes to the cultural diversity of the city.

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander individuals make up less than 0.1% of the population in California City, based on data from the United States Census Bureau. This is a very small percentage, which reflects the generally low population of Pacific Islander communities in the area.

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California City, California Population by Age and Gender

The total population of California City, California is approximately 14,236, according to the most recent data from the United States Census Bureau.

Total Population by Gender

According to the United States Census Bureau, the gender distribution in California City is fairly balanced. The population is made up of 50.6% males and 49.4% females.

Age Distribution

California City’s age distribution, based on the most recent census data, is as follows:

  • Under 5 years: 7.5%
  • 5 to 9 years: 6.9%
  • 10 to 14 years: 7.2%
  • 15 to 19 years: 7.5%
  • 20 to 24 years: 6.8%
  • 25 to 34 years: 13.5%
  • 35 to 44 years: 12.4%
  • 45 to 54 years: 12.6%
  • 55 to 59 years: 6.5%
  • 60 to 64 years: 4.5%
  • 65 years and over: 15.1%

These numbers reflect the relatively broad age range in California City, with a notable portion of the population in the 25 to 44 age range. For more details on age distribution, refer to the United States Census Bureau.

Median Age

The median age in California City is 36.3 years, which is slightly higher than the national median of 38.2 years, according to data from the United States Census Bureau.

Dependency Ratios

California City’s dependency ratio is approximately 45.4%. This ratio represents the portion of the population that is either under 18 or over 65, and is dependent on the working-age population (18-64 years). For more information on dependency ratios in California City, visit the United States Census Bureau.

Sex Ratio

The sex ratio in California City is fairly balanced, with about 99 males for every 100 females, according to the most recent data from the United States Census Bureau.

Population Growth Rates

California City’s population growth has seen fluctuations over recent years. From 2010 to 2020, the population grew by approximately 2.4%, which is slower than the state’s overall growth rate. This indicates a modest rate of growth, reflecting the city’s stable but not rapid expansion. For more details, visit the United States Census Bureau.

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California City, California Zip Codes

California City, California, primarily has the following ZIP codes:

  • 93505

This ZIP code covers the majority of the California City, California area.

What is the history of California City, California?

History of California City, California

California City, located in the Mojave Desert in California, has a rich and varied history that spans from its origins as part of the land settled by Native American tribes to its development as a planned community in the 20th century. The area where California City now stands was originally inhabited by the Kitanemuk people, an indigenous group that lived in the region. They were primarily hunter-gatherers and developed a deep connection to the desert landscape. European settlers arrived in the region during the 19th century, and by the late 1800s, California City became part of the land acquired through the expansion of the U.S. government’s efforts to settle the West.

The modern history of California City began in the 1950s when the city was founded by real estate developer Nat Mendelsohn. Mendelsohn’s vision was to create a large, planned community that would rival Los Angeles in size, and he hoped to capitalize on the area’s location near key highways and proximity to other growing cities. In 1958, Mendelsohn’s company, California City Development Company, filed plans for the development of a city. California City was officially incorporated on December 2, 1965, making it one of California’s youngest cities.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, California City grew slowly, primarily as a place for retirees and individuals seeking affordable housing. Despite Mendelsohn’s ambitious plans, which included an airport and several golf courses, the city never achieved the rapid growth that was originally envisioned. Economic challenges, along with the desert climate, limited the development of the city during its early years. However, the city continued to expand in the following decades, with residential development and some commercial expansion occurring sporadically. The city’s geographic size, one of the largest in California, provided ample space for future growth, but its population remained modest compared to other cities in the state.

In recent decades, California City has seen some resurgence, with new residential developments and an increase in tourism due to its proximity to natural attractions like Red Rock Canyon State Park. The city has maintained a relatively low cost of living compared to California’s more populous areas, making it attractive to those seeking more space and a slower pace of life. While California City has never grown to the size that its founder envisioned, it has developed into a unique and quiet community, offering a blend of rural charm and suburban amenities.

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California City, California Weather

Average Temperature (by Month)

California City, located in the Mojave Desert, experiences a hot desert climate with significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. The average monthly temperatures are as follows:

  • January: High 58°F (14°C), Low 34°F (1°C)
  • February: High 63°F (17°C), Low 37°F (3°C)
  • March: High 68°F (20°C), Low 42°F (6°C)
  • April: High 74°F (23°C), Low 47°F (8°C)
  • May: High 84°F (29°C), Low 57°F (14°C)
  • June: High 97°F (36°C), Low 67°F (19°C)
  • July: High 104°F (40°C), Low 74°F (23°C)
  • August: High 102°F (39°C), Low 72°F (22°C)
  • September: High 94°F (34°C), Low 64°F (18°C)
  • October: High 79°F (26°C), Low 49°F (9°C)
  • November: High 66°F (19°C), Low 40°F (4°C)
  • December: High 58°F (14°C), Low 34°F (1°C)

These temperatures indicate a hot summer season and relatively mild winters. For comparison, the average high temperature in California is typically higher, with coastal areas experiencing milder winters. Nationwide, California City’s summer highs are significantly higher than the national average. For more detailed monthly temperature statistics, visit US Climate Data – California City.

Precipitation (Rain) Patterns

California City has low annual precipitation, typical for a desert climate. On average, the city receives approximately 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain per year. The majority of this precipitation falls in the winter months, particularly between November and March. The wettest month is typically February, with around 1 inch (25 mm) of rain. In contrast, the summer months are extremely dry, and some years may see no significant rainfall at all. For comparison, the state of California receives an average of about 22 inches (559 mm) of rain annually, and the national average for the U.S. is about 38 inches (965 mm). For more details on precipitation patterns, visit US Climate Data – California City.

Extreme Weather Events

California City, being located in the Mojave Desert, is somewhat shielded from extreme weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes. However, the region is prone to intense heatwaves, particularly during the summer months, with temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F (38°C). Additionally, while rare, the area can experience dust storms and occasional flash flooding following rainstorms. These weather events are not as common as in coastal or urban areas but still pose a risk during certain conditions. For more information on extreme weather events in the area, you can refer to National Weather Service – Hazardous Weather Outlook.

Humidity Levels

Humidity in California City is generally very low, typical of desert climates. During the summer, the humidity can drop as low as 10%, especially during hot days. Even in winter, the humidity tends to remain below 50%. The low humidity levels contribute to the dry, arid conditions in the region, which can be challenging for those not accustomed to desert environments. For comparison, California has higher humidity levels along the coast and in urban areas. The average annual relative humidity in California City is about 23%, lower than the state’s average of around 40%. For more information on local humidity levels, visit US Climate Data – California City.

Sunlight

California City enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with approximately 285 sunny days annually. This is significantly higher than the U.S. national average of about 205 sunny days. The sunny weather is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a warm climate year-round. The desert environment ensures that even during the winter months, residents and visitors experience long hours of daylight. For more sunlight statistics, visit US Climate Data – California City.

Wind Patterns

California City experiences moderate winds throughout the year. On average, the city sees winds of around 8 mph (13 km/h), with occasional gusts reaching up to 20 mph (32 km/h) during certain weather conditions, particularly in the spring and fall. These winds are more noticeable in the desert environment, where they can increase the perceived dryness of the air. Wind speeds are higher during dust storms and after rainfall when the area experiences a shift in weather patterns. For more information on wind conditions in California City, visit Weather Underground – California City.

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Average Income in California City, California

Average Annual Salary

The average annual salary in California City, California, is approximately $38,000. This figure reflects the general income level for residents of the area, which is lower than the statewide average for California. In comparison, the average annual salary in California is around $63,000, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Nationally, the average annual salary is approximately $54,000, which is higher than the average in California City but aligns with typical trends seen in rural areas versus larger cities.

Average Hourly Wage

The average hourly wage in California City is about $18.27 per hour. This is significantly lower than the California statewide average of $28.91 per hour, reflecting the lower wages generally offered in rural areas of California. The national average hourly wage is approximately $22.00 per hour, placing California City below both state and national levels. For more details on hourly wages in California, you can check the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Median Salary Range

The median household income in California City is around $45,000 per year. This is notably lower than the median household income for California, which is approximately $80,000, and the national median of $70,000. These figures reflect the economic characteristics of California City’s residents, who may have lower-paying jobs or live in the area due to its lower cost of living. For more information on median income in California, visit United States Census Bureau.

Most Popular Jobs/Careers

Some of the most common jobs in California City include positions in construction, retail, healthcare, and transportation. The most popular career fields in the area tend to reflect the town’s economic focus on services and local businesses. Many residents work in blue-collar jobs, with notable employment in sectors such as construction and warehousing, which are relatively prominent in desert and rural communities. For more on job and employment trends in California City, visit ZipRecruiter – California City Salaries.

Highest Paid Jobs Popular to the Area

The highest-paid jobs in California City are generally in the fields of healthcare, construction management, and engineering. For example, jobs like construction project managers, civil engineers, and registered nurses tend to have higher salaries compared to the general population. Salaries in these fields can range from $55,000 to $85,000 annually, significantly above the average income for residents in the area. For more details on salaries in high-demand sectors, check Salary.com – California City Salaries.

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Taxes in California City, California

Property Taxes

Property taxes in California City are based on the assessed value of the property, with the general property tax rate set at 1% of the assessed value, plus additional voter-approved local taxes. The California property tax system is governed by Proposition 13, which caps the general property tax rate at 1% of the property’s value, with additional levies for local bonds and assessments. In California City, property tax rates are consistent with the state’s rules. For further information on property taxes in California, you can visit California State Board of Equalization – Property Tax FAQs.

Sales Taxes

California City, located in Kern County, follows the state’s sales tax rate of 7.25%, which is the statewide base rate. However, the city may have additional local taxes, which can bring the total sales tax rate up to 8.25%. This is in line with the general sales tax rate for the region. The statewide base rate of 7.25% is among the highest in the nation. For more detailed sales tax rates for the city, visit the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.

Income Taxes

California has a state income tax, and residents of California City are subject to these taxes. The state’s income tax rates range from 1% to 13.3%, depending on income level. California City residents pay the same state income tax rates as all other residents of California. The state’s progressive tax system means higher-income earners pay a larger percentage of their income. For the most up-to-date information on income tax brackets and rates, refer to the California Franchise Tax Board – Individual Income Tax.

Utility Taxes

Utility taxes in California City are applicable to residents who use gas, electricity, and other services. These taxes vary depending on the service provided and are typically a small percentage of the total bill. For instance, utility services such as electricity and water may have additional charges added on to the basic service rate, depending on local ordinances. Utility rates can also be impacted by the overall demand in the region. To check for specific utility taxes in California City, visit California Department of Tax and Fee Administration – Utility Taxes.

Hotel Occupancy Tax

California City has a hotel occupancy tax, or transient occupancy tax (TOT), that is typically levied on short-term lodging accommodations. This tax generally applies to stays in hotels, motels, and other transient lodgings. The standard TOT rate in California City is approximately 10%. The rate may vary depending on the type of property or any special assessments levied by the city. For more details on transient occupancy taxes, check with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration – Hotel Tax.

Entertainment Taxes

California City does not have specific entertainment taxes, although California generally levies taxes on certain forms of entertainment, including admission fees to movies, concerts, and other entertainment venues. These taxes are generally included in the sales tax rate. For more information on entertainment-related taxes, you can refer to California Department of Tax and Fee Administration – Entertainment Tax.

Tax Payment Schedule

Property taxes in California City are typically due in two installments: the first due by December 10th, and the second due by April 10th. Late payments incur penalties, which generally start at 10% of the amount owed, plus additional interest. For more detailed information on the tax payment schedule, visit Kern County Finance – Property Taxes.

Penalties for Late Payment

If property taxes are not paid by the due dates, a penalty of 10% of the unpaid tax is assessed. Additionally, interest charges accrue at a rate of 1.5% per month. To avoid penalties, taxpayers are encouraged to pay on time. For more information, see the Kern County Finance – Property Taxes.

Where to Pay

Property taxes in California City can be paid through the Kern County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s office. Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at their office. For detailed instructions on where and how to pay, visit Kern County Treasurer-Tax Collector.

Contact Information

If you need to contact the Kern County Treasurer-Tax Collector for tax-related inquiries in California City, you can reach them at:

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Is California City, California a Good Place to Live for Singles?

Events and Activities

California City is a small, rural town, so its events and activities are more low-key compared to larger cities. However, the community does offer some local activities, particularly for those who enjoy outdoor recreation. Popular events include local fairs, farmers’ markets, and outdoor festivals. The nearby Red Rock Canyon State Park offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and stargazing. For more information on local events and activities, you can check out Visit Kern County, which provides information on things to do in the region.

Gyms

For those looking to stay active in California City, there are a few gym options available. While the town itself has a limited number of fitness centers, nearby areas such as Mojave and Lancaster offer larger gyms and fitness facilities. You can find more options in surrounding communities, such as Yahoo Local Search – Fitness in California City.

Housing

The rental market in California City is relatively affordable compared to other areas in California. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,000 per month, while a three-bedroom home typically rents for around $1,200 per month. These prices make California City a reasonable choice for singles who are looking for affordable housing options. You can browse available rental listings in the area on websites like Zillow – California City Rentals.

Percentage of Single Residents

According to the most recent census data, about 35% of the population in California City is single, meaning they are not currently married. This is slightly below the California state average, where about 39% of residents are single. Nationally, the percentage of single residents is approximately 39% as well. For more details on the demographic breakdown of California City, check out the U.S. Census Bureau – California City Demographics.

Is California City, California Good for Families?

California City, California, can be a good place for families, offering a low cost of living, relatively low crime rates, and a quiet, suburban lifestyle. With housing prices significantly below the California average, families can find affordable homes. The weather is mostly sunny and warm, with hot summers and mild winters, making it ideal for outdoor activities. While job opportunities are limited in the city itself, the proximity to larger cities like Lancaster and Bakersfield opens up more employment prospects. Despite its small size, California City can offer a good balance of affordability and tranquility for families looking for a slower pace of life.

Parks and Family Activities

California City offers some great options for family activities, with a focus on outdoor recreation. The city is close to Red Rock Canyon State Park, where families can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking in a beautiful desert landscape. Additionally, the city has several local parks, including the California City Park, which features playgrounds, walking trails, and sports fields. For more information about local events and activities, visit Visit Kern County, which offers resources for family-friendly activities in the area.

Restaurants

California City offers a few dining options for families, with a selection of American and local eateries. While the options for Italian and BBQ are somewhat limited, nearby cities offer a wider variety. Here are some specific restaurant types available within the city and surrounding areas:

Housing

For families looking to purchase a home, California City offers affordable options compared to other areas of California. The median home price in California City is approximately $230,000, which is significantly lower than the state average. Homes in the area tend to be larger than in more urban settings, making it attractive for families who need more space. To explore homes for sale in California City, you can visit Zillow – California City Homes for Sale.

Percentage of Family Residents

Approximately 49% of the residents of California City are married, making it a reasonably family-oriented community. This is slightly below the California state average of about 52%, and also below the national average of approximately 55%. For more information on the demographic breakdown of California City, visit the U.S. Census Bureau – California City Demographics.

How are the schools in California City, California?

California City, California, is served by the Mojave Unified School District (MUSD), which operates a variety of educational institutions for students from Pre-K to 12th grade. The schools in California City receive a moderate amount of funding, with a higher reliance on state and federal support due to the city’s relatively low property tax base. Test scores in the district are generally below the state average, but there is a strong focus on improving educational outcomes. The schools offer a variety of programs aimed at supporting academic growth, though the district faces challenges such as limited resources and a relatively small student population. Overall, families in California City can expect a quiet, community-oriented educational experience with an emphasis on family involvement and support.

Pre-K Schools

For younger children, the Mojave Unified School District offers Pre-K programs that provide early childhood education in a supportive environment. These programs focus on building foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and socialization. While specific rankings or test scores are not available for Pre-K schools in the area, they are part of the district’s broader focus on early childhood education. You can find more information on Pre-K enrollment in California City through the Mojave Unified School District – Preschool Programs.

Kindergarten Schools

Kindergarten education in California City is offered at local elementary schools within the Mojave Unified School District. These schools provide a full-day kindergarten experience focusing on literacy, mathematics, and social skills. The district offers various programs to help students transition smoothly into the educational system. Information about kindergarten enrollment can be found on the Mojave Unified School District website.

Elementary Schools

California City is home to a few elementary schools that cater to children in grades K-5. These include California City Elementary School, which serves as the main educational hub for younger students. The school offers a variety of academic and extracurricular activities aimed at promoting student development. While California City Elementary School’s academic performance is generally below the state average, it focuses on providing a safe and nurturing environment. For more on school rankings and performance, visit GreatSchools – California City Elementary.

Middle Schools

For middle school-aged children (grades 6-8), California City Middle School is the primary institution. It offers a variety of subjects and enrichment programs designed to prepare students for high school. Academic performance here is similar to the district’s general performance, with room for improvement in standardized testing. The school provides opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities such as sports and music. For further details on the middle school’s academic offerings, check out GreatSchools – California City Middle School.

High Schools

California City High School serves students in grades 9-12. The school provides a variety of academic courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) classes, as well as extracurricular programs such as athletics, performing arts, and student clubs. However, high school test scores and academic achievement are generally below the state average, a common challenge for schools in rural districts. Despite this, the school has a dedicated staff and offers opportunities for students to participate in college preparation programs. You can find more information about the high school’s programs on GreatSchools – California City High School.

Colleges & Universities

California City is a relatively small town, and it does not have a local college or university. However, residents can access higher education options in nearby cities like Bakersfield and Lancaster, where multiple colleges and universities are located. The nearest community college is the Bakersfield College, which offers a wide variety of academic programs and certificates. For more details on community college options, you can visit Bakersfield College.

Churches in California City, California

Conclusion: Why you should consider moving to California City, California

California City, California, offers an exceptional blend of affordability, peaceful living, and proximity to nature, making it an ideal place for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more crowded urban centers. With its spacious homes, low cost of living, and sunny weather, it provides a perfect environment for families, singles, and retirees alike. The small-town atmosphere fosters a strong sense of community, where residents can enjoy outdoor activities, local events, and a slower pace of life, all while being just a short drive from larger cities for work, entertainment, and amenities. Whether you’re drawn to the desert landscape, the affordable housing options, or the welcoming community, California City offers a unique and fulfilling place to call home.