Cost of Living in Happy Camp, CA

With a cost of living index of 72, Happy Camp, CA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 28% cheaper than the national average and 72% below the California state average of 144. Happy Camp is a small community of 580 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Happy Camp's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $683 (48% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $153,900 (50% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.8x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Happy Camp is $32,353, which is 57% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 25% 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 Happy Camp. The area sees an average annual temperature of 52.9°F, with summers averaging 57°F and winters around 49°F. Annual rainfall totals 58 inches spread over roughly 141 days.

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.