What to know when moving to Redding, CA
Redding at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 39.6% of residents rent and the median household income is $70,594.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to nature with Turtle Bay Exploration Park rated 4.6 stars by over 2,400 visitors.
- The Reality Check:
- With a public transit commute share of just 1%, you will likely need a car.
- Top Tip:
- Median rent is $1,238, so budget accordingly.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Redding features a population of 34,109, with a median gross rent of $1,238 and a median home value of $385,900. The area has a 28.3% bachelor's degree attainment rate, indicating a moderately educated community. However, the 13.8% poverty rate suggests some economic challenges. With only 1% of residents using public transit, it is a car-dependent area.
Probably not your spot if you prefer urban living with strong public transit options.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,238, making it relatively affordable compared to many California cities.
- The median owner-occupied home value stands at $385,900, reflecting the local real estate market.
- Education level is moderate, with 28.3% of residents holding a bachelor's degree, while 13.8% live below the poverty line.
- Only 1% of the population commutes using public transit, indicating a need for personal transportation.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In California, the property crime rate is 1,764 per 100,000 residents, which is 14% higher than the national rate of 1,547. The violent crime rate is 415.5 per 100,000, 27.7% higher than the national average of 325.3.
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100k vs. national 325.3.
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100k vs. national 1,547.
- Notable trend: Property crime decreased by 26.1% from 2022 to 2025.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
Redding has access to four postsecondary institutions, providing various educational opportunities.
- Shasta Bible College and Graduate School
- Shasta College
- Shasta School of Cosmetology
- Simpson University
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations (NCES) + College Scorecard (ED).
Weather & Getting Outside
Redding experiences an annual precipitation of 43 inches, with 71 rainy days each year. The rainy winters contribute to lush outdoor spaces, perfect for exploring nearby parks.
- Turtle Bay Exploration Park - 4.6 stars (2,456 reviews)
- Enterprise Park - 4.5 stars (1,297 reviews)
- Caldwell Park - 4.3 stars (1,146 reviews)
- Shasta State Historic Park - 4.7 stars (506 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Shasta County, the unemployment rate is 5.2%, with a labor force of 81,214 and 76,968 employed individuals.
- Unemployment rate: 5.2% (December 2025)
- Employed: 76,968
- Labor force: 81,214
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.