141 movers in Chico
What to know when moving to Chico, CA
Chico at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated area where 44.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and 58% are renters.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $62,334, which can help support your lifestyle.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 25.5%, some residents face financial challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 1.1% use public transit, so a car is likely necessary.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,418/month in rent to find a place that fits your needs.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Chico has a population of about 42,143, with a 58% renter rate indicating a strong demand for rental properties. The community is relatively educated, with nearly half of residents holding a bachelor's degree. However, the poverty rate is notably high at 25.5%, which might be a concern for some. With only 1.1% of residents commuting via public transit, having a car is important for getting around.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for robust public transit options or a low poverty rate.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,418, while the median home value stands at $462,900, reflecting a competitive housing market.
- About 44.7% of residents have a bachelor's degree, contributing to the community's educational profile.
- The poverty rate is 25.5%, indicating that a significant portion of the population may experience economic challenges.
- With 58% of the population renting, there is a diverse mix of housing options available.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
California's crime rates show some significant trends worth noting. The state has seen a decrease in both violent and property crime rates over the last few years.
- Violent crime rate in California is 415.5 per 100,000, which is 27.7% higher than the national average.
- Property crime rate stands at 1,764 per 100,000, which is 14% above the national average.
- Notably, the homicide rate has decreased by 44.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
Chico has access to various educational institutions, making it a suitable location for students.
- 4 total postsecondary institutions in the area.
- California State University-Chico is a prominent local university.
- Butte College, located in nearby Oroville, offers additional educational opportunities.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Chico experiences an annual precipitation of about 20.1 inches, with 54 rainy days per year. Most rain occurs in winter, with 29 rainy days during that season.
- Upper Bidwell Park: 4.8 stars from 2,282 reviews.
- Bidwell Park One-Mile: 4.6 stars from 1,418 reviews.
- DeGarmo Park: 4.6 stars from 1,112 reviews.
- Hooker Oak Park: 4.6 stars from 726 reviews.
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places API.
Jobs & the Local Economy
The job market in Butte County has its strengths and challenges.
- Unemployment rate is at 5.8% as of December 2025.
- Approximately 88,080 people are employed in the county.
- The total labor force is about 93,472.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
