Cost of Living in Tulelake, CA

With a cost of living index of 69, Tulelake, CA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 31% cheaper than the national average and 74% below the California state average of 144. Tulelake is a small community of 837 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Tulelake's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $724 (45% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $112,200 (63% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.6x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Tulelake is $43,125, which is 43% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 20% 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 Tulelake. The area sees an average annual temperature of 47.1°F, with summers averaging 64°F and winters around 32°F. Annual rainfall totals 11.1 inches spread over roughly 88 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.