What to know when moving to Fresno, CA
TL;DR: Fresno at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 64.1% of residents are renters and the median household income is $49,877.
- The Major Draw:
- Median rent is $1,178, making it relatively affordable.
- The Reality Check:
- 21% poverty rate indicates some economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 3.8% use public transit, suggesting a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for just 29 rainy days a year, so you might not need an umbrella often.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Fresno has a population of 2,969, with a significant portion of the community renting their homes. With only 11.7% of residents holding a bachelor's degree, the education level is relatively low, which may impact the job market. The area experiences an average of 5.5 inches of precipitation per year, making it a dry place overall.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a highly educated community or rely on public transit, as only 3.8% use it.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,178, which is relatively affordable compared to other Californian areas.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $306,000, indicating a reasonable entry point for homebuyers.
- With a poverty rate of 21%, the area faces economic challenges that can affect living conditions.
- 64.1% of residents are renters, highlighting a strong rental market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In California, property crime rates are a concern, with a state annual rate of 1,764 per 100,000 residents, which is 14% higher than the national average. However, property crime has decreased by 26.1% since 2022. Violent crime stands at 415.5 per 100,000, 27.7% higher than the national average, but it has also dropped by 17.4% during the same time frame.
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100k vs. national average of 325.3, with a 17.4% decrease since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100k vs. national average of 1,546.9, with a 26.1% decrease since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate has fallen by 44.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
Fresno has access to a total of 19 postsecondary institutions in the region, with 18 having College Scorecard data. Notable options include California State University-Fresno and Fresno City College.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 19
- Institutions with College Scorecard data: 18
- Nearby notable institutions: California State University-Fresno, Fresno City College, and Clovis Community College.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Fresno County sees an average of 5.5 inches of precipitation annually, with 29 rainy days. There's very little snowfall, making it ideal for those who prefer dry weather. The area offers several parks for outdoor activities.
- Oso de Oro Park - 4.7 stars (1,733 reviews)
- Woodward Park - 4.6 stars (1,540 reviews)
- Chukchansi Park - 4.6 stars (2,523 reviews)
- Lost Lake Park - 4.5 stars (978 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Fresno County, the unemployment rate is 8.2% as of December 2025, with a labor force of 477,788. There are approximately 438,591 employed individuals in the county.
- Unemployment rate: 8.2% (December 2025)
- Labor force: 477,788
- Employed individuals: 438,591
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.