Alta Sierra 58 Below average
Alta Sierra Livability #687 ranked city in California#20,882 ranked city in the USARanks better than 28% of areas
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Pros and Cons of Living in Alta Sierra

PROS
  • Employment Employment

    The combination of higher than average median home income, income per capita and low unemployment rates results in a score that is well above average in the employment category.

  • Housing Housing

    This area has received high scores in the housing category. This could be due to a positive home affordability ratio, high appreciation rates or elevated home values.

  • Ratings Ratings

    Local residents have positive things to say about the proximity of restaurants, grocery stores, parks, public transit, friendliness of neighbors, sense of community and overall safety of the area.

CONS
  • Amenities Amenities

    A majority of amenities are not ideally situated within a reasonable walking distance, which may lead residents to rely on a vehicle or public transportation.

  • Commute Commute

    Public transportation is not readily available in this area and the average commute time to work could also be longer than the national average.

  • Cost Of Living Cost Of Living

    Based on the most recent cost of living data, this area is more expensive to live in. You can expect to pay more for everyday goods and services, housing, groceries and utilities.

  • Health & Safety Health & Safety

    Poor air quality and the inaccessibility of certain health related facilities like hospitals, clinics, doctors and pharmacies could have all contributed to the low score in this category.

What's it like Living in Alta Sierra?

Located in the state of California, Alta Sierra is a smaller city with a population of 7,791 residents. According to the most recent Census, 90% of Alta Sierra residents are White, 1% Black and 0% Asian. In Alta Sierra, there seems to be a shift in population towards an older age group. The average age of the population is now 49, which is significantly higher than the nation’s average. Long commute times to work can be incredibly frustrating, ranking just behind housework on the list of life's annoyances. If you opt to make Alta Sierra your home, your one-way commute time will typically last around 29 minutes, a duration that aligns with the national average commute time of 26 minutes.

Whether you’re relocating to a new town to be closer to family, friends or for a new job, living in Alta Sierra could be a positive experience compared to other cities in California if you know where to search. Don't forget to determine what matters most to you in a neighborhood. Consider factors such as safety, proximity to work or school, access to amenities (like parks, fitness facilities, grocery stores, restaurants), public transportation options, community atmosphere and the overall vibe you're looking for. With useful information like crime, education, housing and other key data points, finding the best places to live in Alta Sierra and in the areas around Alta Sierra is a much easier task.

Using data and statistics Alta Sierra has received a livability score of 60/100. This score is ranked in the 36th percentile when compared to all other cities. This is not a favorable rating; as this score ranks among some of the lowest in America. Living in Alta Sierra may not be a pleasant experience. Based on the scores for each individual category, Alta Sierra has received high marks for housing (A+). Alta Sierra does not fare well for the following: amenities (F), crime (D) and cost of living (F). It might be a good idea to take a closer look at each category to find out why.

The Alta Sierra unemployment rate of 1.5% has continued to decrease over the years and is now well below the national average. The result could lead to reduced poverty and inequality in the area, higher wages and increased economic growth. This is a positive sign in the overall health of the local economy.

For home buyers, real estate will be the largest purchase they will ever make and it will also be their most valuable asset. For renters, the monthly rent paid on their Alta Sierra apartments will most likely be their largest expense. Based on tangible metrics like home and rental affordability and appreciation rates, housing in this area has received a score that is well above the average of every other US city. A thriving real estate market can also generate strong local economic activity and job creation.

Alta Sierra real estate prices and overall affordability will play a huge role in determining if the area is the right fit for you. Of course there are probably some other items on your “wish list”, but even before they are considered, let’s take a look at the home prices and affordability in Alta Sierra. The median home price for Alta Sierra homes is $752,694, which is 2.9% higher than the California average. If we take a closer look at the affordability of homes in Alta Sierra, we’ll see that the home price to income ratio is 5.5, which is 28.6% lower than the California average.

Best Places to Live in and Around Alta Sierra

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      Alta Sierra transportation information

      Statistic Alta Sierra California National
      Average one way commute29min28min26min
      Workers who drive to work77.1%73.5%76.4%
      Workers who carpool4.2%10.6%9.3%
      Workers who take public transit1.2%5.2%5.1%
      Workers who bicycle0.0%1.1%0.6%
      Workers who walk1.8%2.7%2.8%
      Working from home12.9%5.4%4.6%
      Source: The Alta Sierra, CA data and statistics displayed above are derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) and include 2026 modeled data developed using proprietary methodologies.