Chico Metro Area

The Chico metropolitan area is the 222nd largest metro area in the United States, with a total population of 171,600 spread across 24 cities and towns in CA. Anchored by Chico, this metro area is a significant economic and cultural hub that draws residents and businesses from across the region.

Residents of the Chico metro area earn an average household income of $75,800, while the average home value sits at $387,955. Renters in the area pay an average of $1,308 per month, making the cost of living relatively high compared to the national average. About 27.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, reflecting the area's well-educated workforce.

The Chico metro reports an average violent crime rate of 638.7 per 1,000 residents, which is above the national average. Property crime averages 2,198.3 per 1,000 residents across the metro. The area experiences an average annual temperature of 60.3°F, with distinct four-season weather. The average poverty rate across cities in this metro is 13.9%, which is near the national average.

With 24 distinct communities ranging from major urban centers to smaller suburban towns, the Chico metro area offers a wide variety of living options. Despite its more compact size, the metro area provides a range of communities with their own unique character and appeal. Explore the full list of cities below to find detailed data on population, income, housing costs, and more.