Cost of Living in Fort Bidwell, CA

With a cost of living index of 71, Fort Bidwell, CA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 29% cheaper than the national average and 72% below the California state average of 144. Fort Bidwell is a small community of 172 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Fort Bidwell's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $565 (57% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $193,800 (36% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 5.3x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Fort Bidwell is $36,750, which is 51% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 18% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Fort Bidwell. The area sees an average annual temperature of 42.9°F, with summers averaging 60°F and winters around 28°F. Annual rainfall totals 15.5 inches spread over roughly 105 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.