Cost of Living in Red Bluff, CA

With a cost of living index of 93, Red Bluff, CA is slightly more affordable than average. Living here is 7% cheaper than the national average and 51% below the California state average of 144. Red Bluff is a smaller community of 14,592 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Red Bluff's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,068 (19% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $271,100 (11% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 5.4x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Red Bluff is $50,216, which is 33% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 26% of household income on rent. This is near the 30% threshold that financial experts generally consider the upper limit of affordability. 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 Red Bluff. The area sees an average annual temperature of 63.3°F, with summers averaging 79°F and winters around 48°F. Annual rainfall totals 23.1 inches spread over roughly 68 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

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.