Merced County Real Estate and Livability Trends
Merced County's real estate market has seen a significant rise in median home values, jumping from $161,200 in 2015 to $342,300 in 2022. This growth, outpacing the national rate, is compelling for prospective buyers or investors seeking affordable entry points within California. Real estate taxes have nearly doubled, suggesting a strengthening property market and improved local amenities. A... Read more
Merced County Market Trends
Merced County's real estate market has seen a noteworthy rise in median home values from $161,200 in 2015 to $342,300 in 2022, outpacing the national growth rate. Though California’s median home values are higher, Merced County remains relatively affordable, possibly appealing to new buyers or investors looking for growth opportunities without the high entry costs prevalent elsewhere in the... Read more
Median Value of Occupied Housing Units in Merced County, California Over the Last 8 Years
Merced County has seen consistent growth in median home values from $161,200 in 2015 to $342,300 in 2022. This increase appears more significant when compared to the national rise from $125,500 to $179,400 over the same period. While California's state-wide median values also surged, reaching $659,300 by 2022, Merced County still offers relatively affordable options, making it potentially attractive for new buyers or investors seeking growth without the extremely high entry prices found in other parts of the state.
Residential Energy Tax Credit Per Tax Return in Merced County, CA Over the Last 9 Years
Over the past nine years in Merced County, California, residential energy tax credits per tax return have shown noticeable fluctuations, peaking in 2018 at around $4,352.68. The trend highlights a significant increase from 2013's average of $1,653.57, suggesting growing investments in energy-efficient home improvements. For potential investors, builders, or new residents, this indicates a community progressively investing in energy sustainability, potentially reducing long-term living costs and enhancing property values.
Average Real Estate Taxes Per Tax Return in Merced County, CA Over the Last 10 Years
Over the past decade, Merced County, California has seen a consistent increase in average real estate taxes per tax return, climbing from $2,203.42 in 2012 to $4,398.83 in 2021. This nearly twofold rise suggests a growing property market that could attract investors looking for potentially appreciating assets. Higher real estate taxes typically reflect increased property values, which might appeal to those considering new constructions or relocations within the county. An uptick in taxes might signal improved local amenities and services, enhancing the area's overall attractiveness.
Percentage of Farm Returns in Merced County, CA Over the Last 10 Years
Over the last decade, Merced County, California has seen a gradual decrease in the percentage of farm tax returns, with a small uptick in 2021. Starting from approximately 2.15% in 2012 and dropping to around 1.47% in 2021, the trend indicates a slight but consistent decline. This could be reflective of shifts in agricultural activity, economic conditions, or changes in land use pattern in the area. For potential investors, property developers, and residents, understanding these trends might offer insights into the evolving economic landscape and agricultural viability in Merced County. Farm tax returns serve as a key indicator of agricultural business activity, capturing data on income generated from farming, which is crucial for gauging the sector's economic health.
Number of Mortgages by Occupancy Type in Merced County, CA Over the Last 5 Years in Merced County
In Merced County, California, the number of mortgages for principal residences saw a peak in 2021, with 18,242 recorded, and remained consistently higher compared to investment and second residences over the past five years. Investment properties also showed growth, especially between 2020 and 2021, making up a significant portion of the market. This shift in occupancy types could influence market dynamics for investors and real estate agents as demand patterns become clearer. Moreover, these trends are valuable for appraisers and insurance agents, as the type of occupancy can directly impact property valuations and risk assessments. For those looking to move to the area or develop property, understanding these shifts can provide insights into potential opportunities and economic growth.
Economic Outlook
Merced County, California has shown a consistent rise in average taxable income per tax return from $41,201.05 in 2013 to $56,314.16 in 2021, hinting at a strengthening economy and increased purchasing power among residents. Meanwhile, state and local income taxes have nearly doubled over the past decade, climbing from $6,197.17 in 2012 to $12,976.12 in 2021—an important factor for potential movers considering the cost of living. The county’s poverty rate fluctuated but notably decreased... Read more
Average Taxable Income per Tax Return in Merced County, CA over the last 9 years
Merced County, CA has seen a steady increase in average taxable income per tax return over the past nine years, rising from $41,201.05 in 2013 to $56,314.16 in 2021. This upward trend signals a strengthening local economy, making Merced County a potentially attractive location for investors and new residents. For those planning to build property or invest, this growth in income suggests a community with increasing purchasing power and economic vitality.
Average State and Local Income Taxes Per Tax Return in Merced County, CA Over the Last 10 Years
Merced County, CA has experienced a significant increase in average state and local income taxes per tax return over the past decade, with figures rising from $6,197.17 in 2012 to $12,976.12 in 2021. This sharp rise, particularly notable between 2018 and 2021, reflects broader economic and fiscal changes impacting the area. For residents and potential movers, understanding this upward trend is essential for financial planning and assessing the overall cost of living in the region.
Average Total Tax Liability Per Tax Return in Merced County, CA Over the Last 10 Years
Merced County, California has seen a notable upward trend in average total tax liability per tax return over the last decade, with a high reaching approximately $7,441.43 in 2021. This indicates increasing financial responsibility for residents and can reflect broader economic growth in the area. For potential investors or those considering a move, it's essential to factor in these rising tax liabilities as they may influence the overall cost of living and investment returns.
Cost of Living in Merced County
| Family Size | Housing | Food | Heath Care | Child Care | Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 adults 4 children | $1,767 | $1,488 | $2,249 | $1,805 | $1,752 |
| 1 adult 4 children | $1,767 | $1,215 | $1,736 | $1,805 | $1,952 |
| 2 adults 3 children | $1,767 | $1,216 | $1,943 | $1,805 | $1,459 |
| 1 adult 3 children | $1,767 | $992 | $1,430 | $1,805 | $1,675 |
| 2 adults 2 children | $1,243 | $995 | $1,637 | $1,586 | $1,023 |
| 1 adult 2 children | $1,243 | $743 | $1,124 | $1,586 | $1,016 |
| 2 adults 1 child | $1,243 | $786 | $1,331 | $872 | $849 |
| 1 adult 1 child | $1,243 | $508 | $819 | $872 | $724 |
| 2 adults | $1,017 | $632 | $1,026 | $0 | $662 |
| 1 adult | $854 | $345 | $513 | $0 | $580 |
Safety trends & Data
Merced County, California has displayed fluctuating trends in property crimes over the last five years, with burglaries peaking at 337 arrests in 2018, then dropping dramatically to just 4 in 2021 before rising again to 108 in 2022. Vandalism has stayed within a narrow range, with arrests varying from 128 to 174. Arson incidents have been particularly volatile, dropping to a low of 1 in 2021 but jumping to 29 in 2022. These unpredictable crime patterns suggest variable risk levels for... Read more
Property Crime Trends in Merced County, CA Over the Last 5 Years
Merced County, California has seen fluctuating trends in property crimes over the last five years. Notably, burglaries peaked in 2018 with 337 arrests then significantly declined to just 4 in 2021, before rising again to 108 in 2022. Instances of vandalism and motor vehicle thefts have generally stayed within a close range, with vandalism varying from 128 to 174 arrests. Arson incidents have been quite variable as well, hitting a low of 1 in 2021 but surging to 29 in 2022. These changing patterns suggest that property crime in the area can be unpredictable, posing variable risk levels for investors, property builders, and insurance agents.
Demographics
Merced County, California exhibits a balanced gender distribution among adults, with male and female populations almost equal. Educational attainment shows a high percentage of individuals with high school graduation and some college education, yet there seems to be a significant portion without a high school diploma. The age demographics reveal a youthful population, with a notable proportion under 35 years. Racial diversity is evident, with a sizable White population and a significant number... Read more
Race Distribution in Merced County, California (2022)
Educational Attainment in Merced County, California (2022)
Age Distribution in Merced County, California
Citizen Population in Merced County, California (2022)
Political Trends & Data
Merced County in California leaned slightly towards Democratic candidates in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election, with Democrats securing around 54% of the votes, while Republicans mirrored a competitive landscape with roughly 44%. Minor parties collectively attracted about 2%, indicating a modest yet existent interest in alternative political views within the... Read more
Percentage of Votes in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election by Party
Merced County in California saw a voting pattern in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election that leaned slightly more towards Democratic candidates, with around 54% of the votes. Republicans captured roughly 44%, indicating a competitive landscape. Minor parties like the Libertarian, Green, and other parties collectively garnered about 2% of the vote, suggesting a relatively small but present interest in alternative political options.
43.51% of voters voted for the Republican party in the 2020 Presidential Election
54.10% of voters voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential Election
1.04% of voters voted for the Livertarian party in the 2020 Presidential Election
0.43% of voters voted for the Green party in the 2020 Presidential Election
0.92% of voters voted for the Other party in the 2020 Presidential Election
School Data
In Merced County, California, the student-to-teacher ratio has seen significant fluctuations over the past nine years, reaching a peak of 48 students per teacher in 2014, before stabilizing around the low 20s in recent years. This contrasts with the national average of fourteen students per teacher. Such variations can influence decisions for those investing in education-focused real estate or moving to the area for family reasons. Understanding these trends is crucial for real estate... Read more
Student-to-teacher ratio in Merced County, California over the last 9 years
Over the last nine years, the student-to-teacher ratio in Merced County, California has fluctuated significantly, with a notable spike in 2014 at 48 students per teacher, and subsequent years showing a more stable range around the low 20s. This trend contrasts sharply with the national average of fourteen students per teacher. Such variations could influence decisions for those looking to invest in education-focused real estate, move to the area for family reasons, and for appraisers or insurance agents assessing property values influenced by local school quality. For real estate agents and those in the property development industry, understanding these fluctuations can be crucial since schools often impact neighborhood desirability and, consequently, property values.
