Is California City Safe, Pros and cons of living in California City
Is it Safe to Live in California City?
California City is situated in Kern County, California, and its crime rate is a significant concern for residents and potential newcomers. The overall crime index places it as safer than only 13% of U.S. cities, indicating a higher-than-average risk for both violent and property crimes (NeighborhoodScout). This means that for every thousand residents, there are 23 reported crimes, a statistic that is considerably higher than the national average across all communities.
When compared to other cities of similar population size, California City’s crime rate, encompassing both violent and property offenses, is notably above average. The likelihood of becoming a victim of either type of crime stands at 1 in 44. Specifically, the property crime rate is recorded at 17 per one thousand population, suggesting an elevated risk of experiencing incidents such as larceny, burglary, arson, or motor vehicle theft (NeighborhoodScout). This elevated rate of property crime, particularly motor vehicle theft, is a key factor contributing to the city’s safety profile.
Cost of Living and Housing
The cost of living in California City is generally lower than the national average, with an overall index that is 5% less (Payscale). This is largely driven by significantly lower housing expenses, which are approximately 52% below the national average (Payscale). This affordability in housing is a major draw for individuals and families seeking to reduce their living costs.
However, some utility prices in California City are higher than the national average, with transportation expenses also being about 25% higher (Payscale). Grocery prices are also slightly elevated, at 6% above the national average (Payscale). Despite these higher costs in certain areas, the substantial savings in housing contribute to a more accessible overall cost of living.
The median home price in California City is around $300,000, with a median rental price of $1,900 per month (Zillow). Rent prices have seen a modest increase of 2% year-over-year, indicating sustained demand from renters (Zillow). The city is currently considered a buyer’s market, with the supply of homes exceeding demand (Zillow).
Job Market and Economy
The average salary in California City is approximately $79,306 annually, which translates to about $38.13 per hour (ZipRecruiter). This figure represents the median salary range, with most salaries falling between $59,075 and $97,556 per year (ZipRecruiter). Some of the highest-paying professions in the city include Psychiatrist, Psychologist, and Midwife (ZipRecruiter).
While specific major employers for California City are not detailed in the provided data, the broader California economy shows a diverse range of industries. Major companies across California include retail giants like Walmart and Costco, as well as technology firms and healthcare systems (Indeed, Livability.com). These larger entities often influence job markets in surrounding areas, even if not directly located within the city itself.
The unemployment rate in California as a whole was 5.4% in February 2026 (USAFacts). While specific unemployment data for California City is not readily available, the state’s overall figures provide a general economic context. The job market in California City appears to offer competitive salaries for various professions, contributing to its overall economic landscape.
Climate and Weather
California City experiences a desert climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. The hot season typically spans from June to September, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 90°F (myPerfectWeather). July is the hottest month, with average highs around 98°F and lows of 70°F (myPerfectWeather).
Winters are cooler, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, and the coldest month is December, averaging a high of 58°F and a low of 35°F (myPerfectWeather). The city receives minimal annual snowfall, around 1 inch, and very low precipitation, approximately 8 inches per year (myPerfectWeather). February is typically the wettest month, though rainfall remains modest.
The climate offers a high number of sunshine hours annually, making it a dry and warm environment for most of the year. The most comfortable months for visiting or living in California City are generally April through May and October, offering pleasant temperatures and lower humidity (myPerfectWeather).
Schools and Education
The public school system serving California City falls under the Mojave Unified School District. California City High School has a rating of 3.76 out of 5, based on 54 reviews (Niche). Other schools in the district include Mojave Junior/Senior High School, with a rating of 3.05 out of 5, and several elementary schools like Robert P. Ulrich Elementary and Hacienda Elementary (Niche).
Overall, the Mojave Unified School District receives a “C” grade on Niche, with a student-teacher ratio of 19:1 (Niche). California City High School itself is ranked 1690th out of 2162 public high schools in California (SchoolDigger). The school faces challenges, including declining academic performance and a high chronic absenteeism rate (SchoolDigger).
Despite these challenges, the district serves a significant number of students, with California City High School having approximately 604 students in grades 9-12 (SchoolDigger). Educational opportunities exist within the district, though performance metrics suggest areas for improvement.
Demographics
California City is home to approximately 14,973 residents as of the 2020 census, covering a substantial land area of 203.63 square miles (Wikipedia). The population density is relatively low, at about 73.5 inhabitants per square mile (Wikipedia). The median age in the city is 34.5 years, with a notable gender imbalance, reporting 131.6 males for every 100 females (Wikipedia).
The racial makeup of California City is diverse. As of the 2020 census, White residents (including non-Hispanic whites) constituted a significant portion, alongside substantial African American and Hispanic populations (Wikipedia). More recent data indicates White residents at 37.23%, Black or African American at 24.48%, and other races making up smaller percentages (World Population Review).
As of 2024, about 14.1% of California City residents were born outside the United States, which is comparable to the national average (Data USA). Citizenship rates are high, with 94.7% of residents being U.S. citizens (Data USA).
Pros and Cons of Living in California City
One of the primary advantages of living in California City is its affordability, particularly concerning housing costs. With expenses for housing being 52% lower than the national average, it offers a significant financial benefit for residents (Payscale). The city also boasts a considerable amount of sunshine, contributing to a pleasant climate for much of the year.
However, California City faces significant challenges regarding public safety. The crime rate is considerably higher than both the national and state averages, with a particular concern for property crimes, including a high rate of motor vehicle theft (NeighborhoodScout). This elevated crime rate is a major deterrent for those prioritizing safety.
The educational system in California City also presents drawbacks. While schools like California City High School are present, they face academic performance issues and high absenteeism rates, indicating potential challenges for students seeking robust educational opportunities (SchoolDigger, Niche). The city’s climate, while sunny, is also characterized by very hot summers, which may be uncomfortable for some.