156 movers in Monterey
What to know when moving to Monterey, CA
Monterey at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated area with 54.3% of residents holding at least a bachelor's degree.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $110,669, which is favorable for residents.
- The Reality Check:
- The median gross rent is $2,305, reflecting high housing costs.
- Commute:
- Only 0.4% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $2,305/month in rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Monterey has a population of 30,951, with a significant percentage of renters at 57%. The community is well-educated, with over half of residents holding a bachelor's degree. However, with an unemployment rate of 9.1%, job opportunities may be a concern for newcomers. Additionally, the area receives about 11.3 inches of precipitation annually, with 47 rainy days, so be prepared for some wet weather.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for affordable housing, as the median gross rent is quite high.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $2,305, making it relatively expensive compared to national averages.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $1,039,700, indicating a robust real estate market.
- 54.3% of the population holds a bachelor's degree, contributing to a well-educated community.
- Poverty rate stands at 9.9%, which suggests some economic diversity.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In California, property crime rates have decreased by 26.1% from 2022 to 2025, with a state annual rate of 1,764 per 100,000 residents. Similarly, violent crime has also seen a decline of 17.4%, with a rate of 415.5 per 100,000, which is 27.7% higher than the national average.
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100,000 vs. national average 325.3 per 100,000.
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100,000 vs. national average 1,546.9 per 100,000.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 44.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
Monterey has access to 8 postsecondary institutions, including notable options like:
- Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey
- Monterey Peninsula College
- Naval Postgraduate School
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Monterey County experiences about 11.3 inches of precipitation annually, with 47 rainy days. The area has no snow days, making it a milder climate overall.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Lovers Point Park (4.8 stars, 8,168 reviews)
- Marina State Beach (4.6 stars, 3,275 reviews)
- Carmel River State Beach (4.8 stars, 2,996 reviews)
- Del Monte Beach (4.6 stars, 2,196 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
Monterey County has a labor force of 214,690, with an employment figure of 195,198. The unemployment rate is currently 9.1%, indicating some challenges in the job market.
- Unemployment rate: 9.1% (December 2025)
- Employment: 195,198
- Labor force: 214,690
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
