Explore detailed stats about Ridgecrest's cost of living, housing affordability, quality of schools, safety ratings, and more. Discover why residents love calling Ridgecrest home.
Big-Box Stores
16-Minute Average
33% Below Average
16% Below Average
High Median Income
Comprehensive Care
66% More Affordable
Highly Rated Schools
Ridgecrest shines as an exceptional place to live, thanks to its affordable cost of living, strong community spirit, and quality schools. According to Niche, residents appreciate its friendly atmosphere, vibrant community, and overall well-being. In addition, BestPlaces emphasizes Ridgecrest’s favorable economic and housing conditions, which enhance the quality of life in the area.
Ridgecrest provides a range of high-quality amenities that enhance everyday living. Residents enjoy top-rated accommodations such as the Hampton Inn & Suites Ridgecrest, which boasts excellent reviews on platforms like Hilton and TripAdvisor. Beyond lodging, explore local shopping, dining, and entertainment options in our Business & Leisure section and discover why these amenities keep visitors and residents coming back.
Enjoy the luxury of time with an average one-way commute of just 16 minutes—a figure well below the national average. This short commute not only enhances work-life balance but also gives residents more time to enjoy local attractions and outdoor pursuits. Learn more about how Ridgecrest’s convenient location benefits residents on our Outdoor Activities page and review additional data on Areavibes Commute Insights.
Ridgecrest stands out for its affordability. With a cost of living roughly 33% lower than the California average, the city offers an excellent quality of life without the premium price tag. This affordability extends across housing, utilities, and everyday expenses. For more detailed comparisons, visit our Moving to Ridgecrest page, and explore external insights from BestPlaces.
Safety is paramount in Ridgecrest, where crime rates are about 16% lower than the national average. This lower incidence of crime fosters a secure, community-oriented environment for residents and families. To get a clearer picture of local safety, read our Affordable Living blog, and verify these statistics with further data from Areavibes Crime Stats.
Ridgecrest’s strong economic landscape is highlighted by a high median household income, supporting a stable and thriving job market. The local economy benefits from diverse industries and growing opportunities. For more detailed economic insights, DataUSA that underscores the city’s employment strengths.
Residents have access to top-tier healthcare, with Ridgecrest Regional Hospital providing comprehensive services including labor and delivery, surgery, and specialty clinics. These facilities ensure quality care is always within reach. For further details on healthcare offerings and patient services, visit our RRH.org and review additional information from trusted healthcare sources.
Housing in Ridgecrest is remarkably affordable—66% more so than the California average. This lower cost of homeownership, coupled with a diverse selection of properties, makes Ridgecrest an attractive destination for families and first-time buyers. Discover our Moving to Ridgecrest Guide page and see comprehensive data from BestPlaces Housing Data.
Education in Ridgecrest is supported by the Sierra Sands Unified School District, featuring institutions like Burroughs High School and Las Flores Elementary. These schools consistently earn high ratings, backed by external reviews from Niche. For further insights into educational performance and programs, visit our Ridgecrest Schools article.