Ridgecrest, CA
Population 28,138 · California
About Ridgecrest, CA
Ridgecrest is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 28,138 residents. The median household income is $88,107 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Ridgecrest is 34.8 years.
Housing in Ridgecrest has a median home value of $235,800 and median monthly rent of $1,178. Of the 11,920 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 6,531 owner-occupied and 4,417 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Ridgecrest is 8.6% and the poverty rate is 11.7%. 31.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 15.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Ridgecrest, CA
Compared to national averages, Ridgecrest has a median household income of $88,107 (17% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $235,800, which is 4% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,178 is 1% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Ridgecrest's income is 10% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 64% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Ridgecrest, CA?
Ridgecrest offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $88,107, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $235,800, below the US average of $244,900, and a low poverty rate of 11.7%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 15.8 minutes.
Ridgecrest has a population of 28,138 with a median age of 34.8 years. Compare Ridgecrest with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Ridgecrest
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walnut | 27,857 | $133,762 | $972,500 | Compare |
| Temescal Valley | 28,560 | $119,647 | $648,200 | Compare |
| East Niles | 28,586 | $51,250 | $228,100 | Compare |
| Twentynine Palms | 28,738 | $56,000 | $238,400 | Compare |
| Belmont | 27,505 | $207,609 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Lemon Grove | 27,489 | $79,278 | $640,600 | Compare |
| East Palo Alto | 29,143 | $104,832 | $1,124,000 | Compare |
| Suisun City | 29,205 | $97,083 | $551,000 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in California
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Ridgecrest
What is the population of Ridgecrest, CA?
The population of Ridgecrest, CA is 28,138 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Ridgecrest?
The median household income in Ridgecrest, CA is $88,107 per year.
What is the median home value in Ridgecrest?
The median home value in Ridgecrest, CA is $235,800.
What is the average rent in Ridgecrest?
The median monthly rent in Ridgecrest, CA is $1,178.
What is the unemployment rate in Ridgecrest?
The unemployment rate in Ridgecrest, CA is 8.6%.