Is Cameron Park Safe, Pros and cons of living in Cameron Park

Cameron Park, California, nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills of El Dorado County, offers a distinct lifestyle for those seeking a balance between natural beauty and suburban convenience. Its location provides easy access to outdoor recreation while remaining within commuting distance of Sacramento. This community is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and a strong sense of local identity.

The area boasts a comfortable climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, making it suitable for a variety of activities throughout the year. Residents appreciate the blend of natural surroundings and the amenities of a well-established community. Cameron Park presents a unique living experience within the broader Sacramento metropolitan area.

Is it Safe to Live in Cameron Park?

Cameron Park presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with crime rates that are often considered to be around the national average or slightly lower in some aspects. The overall crime rate is reported to be equal to the national average, while violent crime rates are slightly higher than the national average. Property crime rates in Cameron Park are below the national average, indicating a lower incidence of theft and burglary. These statistics suggest that while caution is always advised, Cameron Park is a place where residents can feel relatively secure.

When considering safety, it’s helpful to look at specific crime types and their prevalence. The violent crime rate in Cameron Park is approximately 2.752 per 1,000 residents annually (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). Total crime rates are reported at 18.65 per 1,000 residents annually (as reported by SpotCrime). Property crime, which includes theft and vandalism, is lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). Residents often perceive the western and northeastern parts of the city as the safest areas (as reported by CrimeGrade.org and SpotCrime).

Cost of Living and Housing in Cameron Park

The cost of living in Cameron Park is generally higher than the national average, particularly in housing. The median home price in Cameron Park is approximately $667,900 (as reported by Data USA), which is significantly higher than the national median home value. This figure indicates a competitive housing market, with prices having increased by over 4% in a recent year (as reported by Data USA).

Rental costs in Cameron Park are also notable, with the average rent for an apartment being around $1,606 per month (as reported by Apartments.com). This is slightly lower than the national average rent of $1,642 per month. For a studio apartment, expect to pay about $1,215 per month, a one-bedroom around $1,606, and a two-bedroom approximately $1,753 (as reported by Apartments.com). Housing costs are a significant factor when considering a move to Cameron Park, with the median home price being much more expensive than the U.S. median.

Home Prices and Trends

The housing market in Cameron Park is described as very competitive, with a scoring of 73 out of 100 (as reported by Redfin). The median listing home price was around $625,000 in a recent period (as reported by Realtor.com). Home prices have seen fluctuations, with some reports indicating a slight decrease year-over-year in median sale prices. Properties in Cameron Park tend to sell relatively quickly, with an average of 32 days on the market in April 2026 (as reported by Movoto).

The homeownership rate in Cameron Park is approximately 66.7%, which is slightly higher than the national average (as reported by Data USA). This suggests a community where a significant portion of residents own their homes. The median property value has seen an increase, rising by over 4% in a recent year (as reported by Data USA).

Rental Market Insights

The rental market in Cameron Park offers a range of options, with average rents varying by the number of bedrooms. A one-bedroom apartment averages around $1,499 per month, while a two-bedroom unit averages about $1,699 per month (as reported by Rent.com). For those seeking more space, three-bedroom apartments can be found for approximately $2,701 per month, and four-bedroom or larger units can reach $3,542 per month (as reported by Rentometer).

The rent-to-income ratio in Cameron Park is around 33%, indicating that a notable portion of renters’ earnings goes towards housing expenses. This ratio suggests that renters might need to allocate a significant part of their income to cover housing costs, in addition to other living expenses. Affordability for renters is a key consideration, with the median household income for renters being approximately $65,673 (as reported by Point2Homes).

Job Market and Economy

Cameron Park’s job market is influenced by its proximity to Sacramento and the presence of local businesses. The average salary in Cameron Park is reported to be around $75,439 per year or $36 per hour (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert), while other sources indicate a median household income of $102,289 (as reported by Data USA). This suggests a diverse range of earning potentials within the community.

The primary industries in Cameron Park include healthcare, with major employers like Eskaton contributing significantly to local employment. The robust aviation infrastructure also presents potential job opportunities. While wages have been relatively static in recent years, the local economy offers various employment sectors.

Major Employers and Industries

Key employers in Cameron Park and the surrounding El Dorado County area include healthcare providers and retail establishments. Eskaton and Safeway, Inc. are noted as significant employers in the region (as reported by Sacramento Movers). Other companies that have a presence include McDonald’s, Target, UPS, Starbucks, and CVS Health, reflecting a mix of service, retail, and logistics sectors.

The healthcare sector is a strong contributor to the local economy, offering a range of positions from direct care to administrative roles. The presence of aviation-related businesses also adds to the employment landscape, catering to a specialized segment of the workforce. These major employers provide a foundational base for the local job market.

Unemployment and Income

Unemployment data for Cameron Park specifically is not readily available in the provided search results, but broader economic indicators suggest a stable job market. The median household income in Cameron Park is approximately $102,289 annually (as reported by Data USA). This figure is notably higher than the national median, indicating a relatively strong economic standing for households in the area.

The poverty rate in Cameron Park is reported to be around 7% (as reported by Data Commons), which is lower than many areas and suggests a generally prosperous community. Income levels vary by age group, with households led by individuals aged 45-64 earning the highest median income, around $136,905 (as reported by Point2Homes).

Climate and Environment

Cameron Park experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The summers are generally clear and warm, with average daily high temperatures often in the 90s°F, occasionally reaching 100°F or more (as reported by Wikipedia). The dry conditions during summer are typical for this region of California.

Winters are cooler and wetter, with average highs ranging from 40°F to 60°F, and nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing (as reported by Wikipedia). Rainfall is concentrated in the winter months, with February typically being the wettest month, receiving about 5.1 inches of rain (as reported by Weather Spark). Snowfall is infrequent but can occur during exceptional weather events.

Temperature and Seasons

The temperature in Cameron Park typically ranges from 40°F to 92°F throughout the year and rarely falls below 33°F or exceeds 100°F (as reported by Weather Spark). The hot season, from mid-June to mid-September, sees average daily high temperatures above 84°F, with July being the hottest month, averaging a high of 91°F and a low of 65°F (as reported by Weather Spark).

Conversely, the cool season spans from mid-November to early March, with average daily high temperatures below 61°F. December is the coldest month, with average low temperatures around 41°F and highs near 54°F (as reported by Weather Spark). This seasonal variation provides distinct weather patterns for residents to experience.

Rainfall and Precipitation

Cameron Park experiences significant seasonal variation in rainfall. The rainy season typically lasts for over eight months, from late September to early June (as reported by Weather Spark). February is usually the wettest month, with an average of 9.0 days experiencing precipitation (as reported by Weather Spark).

The drier season occurs from early June to late September. July sees very little rain, with an average of only 0.2 wet days (as reported by Weather Spark). The total average annual precipitation is around 27 inches (as reported by myPerfectWeather), with snowfall being a rare occurrence.

Demographics and Community

Cameron Park is a census-designated place with a population of approximately 18,881 as of the 2020 census (as reported by Wikipedia). The community is part of the Greater Sacramento Area and is situated in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The median age in Cameron Park is around 44.4 years, indicating a population that is generally older than the California state average (as reported by Data Commons).

The racial makeup of Cameron Park is predominantly White, with approximately 75.6% identifying as White (Non-Hispanic) (as reported by Data USA). Other significant demographic groups include Hispanic residents and those identifying with two or more races. The population is fairly evenly split between males and females.

Population and Age Distribution

As of the 2020 census, Cameron Park had a population of 18,881 (as reported by Wikipedia). The median age is 43.1 years, with 21.9% of residents under 18 and 21.2% aged 65 or older (as reported by Wikipedia). This age distribution suggests a community with a substantial number of both younger families and older adults.

More recent data indicates a median age of 44.4 years (as reported by Data Commons). The population consists of about 15.8% children under 15, with a significant portion of adults in the 25-64 age bracket. Around 23.3% of the population is 65 or older, contributing to the community’s mature demographic profile.

Racial and Ethnic Composition

The racial composition of Cameron Park is primarily White, accounting for about 75.6% of the population (as reported by Data Commons). Hispanic residents make up approximately 15.1% of the population, followed by those identifying with two or more races at 5.4% (as reported by Data Commons).

Smaller percentages of the population identify as Asian (3.02%), Black or African American (0.56%), Native American (0.46%), and Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander (0.09%) (as reported by Data Commons). The majority of residents are U.S. citizens, with a high percentage of citizenship reported at 97.6% (as reported by Data USA).

Education and Schools

Cameron Park is served by the Buckeye Union Elementary School District, which includes Blue Oak Elementary School for grades K-5. This district is highly regarded, with Blue Oak Elementary receiving an A- rating from Niche and an 8 out of 10 from GreatSchools (as reported by Homes.com). State test scores indicate that a significant portion of students are proficient in math and reading.

Camerado Springs Middle School serves students in grades 6-8 and is also part of the Buckeye Union Elementary School District. Both schools consistently perform well, often outperforming state averages in key academic areas. The district as a whole is recognized for its high-achieving educational system.

School District Performance

The Buckeye Union Elementary School District, which serves Cameron Park, is noted for its strong performance. Blue Oak Elementary School, for instance, ranks in the top 19% of elementary schools in California (as reported by SchoolDigger.com). Camerado Springs Middle School also performs exceptionally well, ranking in the top 13% of California middle schools (as reported by SchoolDigger.com).

These schools demonstrate high levels of student proficiency in subjects like math and reading. Factors such as low chronic absenteeism contribute to a positive school environment and student engagement. Families in Cameron Park have access to a stable and high-achieving K-8 educational system within a top-tier district (as reported by SchoolDigger.com).

Educational Opportunities

Educational opportunities in Cameron Park are primarily centered around its public school system. Blue Oak Elementary and Camerado Springs Middle School offer comprehensive K-8 education, with strong academic programs and dedicated staff. These schools prepare students for further education and future careers.

While specific data on higher education institutions within Cameron Park is limited, its proximity to Sacramento provides access to a wider range of colleges and universities. The strong foundation provided by the local K-8 schools sets students on a path for success in their academic pursuits. The overall educational environment is conducive to learning and development.

Pros and Cons of Living in Cameron Park

Cameron Park offers a compelling blend of natural beauty and community amenities, making it an attractive place to live. The area’s climate, with its warm summers and mild winters, is conducive to an active lifestyle. Its location in the Sierra Nevada foothills provides access to outdoor activities like hiking and exploring scenic landscapes.

However, the cost of living, particularly housing, is a significant consideration. Home prices are considerably higher than the national average, and rental costs also represent a substantial financial commitment. While the community is generally safe, certain crime rates are comparable to or slightly above national averages, requiring residents to remain aware of their surroundings.

Advantages of Cameron Park

One of the primary advantages of living in Cameron Park is its desirable climate and natural setting. The community enjoys warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, with average high temperatures in the summer reaching the low 90s°F (as reported by Weather Spark). The elevation provides a pleasant environment, avoiding the extreme heat of the Central Valley.

The strong sense of community and well-regarded school system are also significant draws. Both Blue Oak Elementary and Camerado Springs Middle School have received high ratings, indicating a commitment to quality education (as reported by Niche and GreatSchools). The area’s safety, with property crime rates below the national average, adds to its appeal for families.

Challenges of Cameron Park

The most prominent challenge for potential residents is the high cost of housing. The median home price in Cameron Park is substantially above the national average, making homeownership a significant investment (as reported by Data USA). Rental prices are also considerable, with a median rent for apartments around $1,606 per month (as reported by Apartments.com).

While overall crime rates are comparable to the national average, violent crime rates are slightly higher than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). This factor, combined with the higher cost of living, presents a trade-off for those considering a move to Cameron Park. Residents may need to balance these factors against the community’s other benefits.