Alturas City Demographics

Alturas, located in Modoc County, CA, has a population of approximately 2,600. The median age is around 41 years. Gender distribution is roughly 51% male and 49% female. Racially, the city is about 80% White, 10% Hispanic or Latino, 4% Native American, 1% Asian, and 5% other or mixed races. This small rural community reflects modest diversity with a majority White population and notable Native American and Hispanic minorities.

Alturas City Healthcare

Alturas, the only incorporated city in Modoc County, CA, is primarily served by Modoc Medical Center—an 8-bed critical access hospital with an affiliated rural health clinic. Healthcare access is limited, with only a handful of providers (primary care ratio: ~1,345:1). The population (approx. 2,600) skews older, with 22% over 65. Common health issues include chronic diseases like diabetes and respiratory conditions. About 7% of residents lack health insurance, while over 30% use Medi-Cal. Healthcare shortages and geographic isolation pose ongoing challenges for comprehensive care access in Alturas.

Alturas City Housing

Alturas, Modoc County, CA, offers affordable housing, with a median home value around $152,000 and median rent about $760 per month. Approximately 60% of residents own their homes, while 40% rent. Housing types include single-family homes, historic properties, and some multi-unit dwellings. Popular neighborhoods include the central downtown area and Riverside. Property values have seen modest annual growth of 2-3% in recent years. Property tax rates average 1.1% of assessed value. The city’s low cost of living and quiet rural character attract both retirees and families seeking budget-friendly options.

Education in Alturas City

Alturas, the county seat of Modoc County, CA, has a limited educational infrastructure, featuring 4 public schools, including Modoc High School (grades 9–12), with an average graduation rate of 91% and a GreatSchools rating of 5/10. Only about 15% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The city offers adult education through the Modoc Adult Education Program. School safety is average, with few reported incidents annually. Educational programs prioritize STEM and vocational training, supporting diverse student interests in a small-town setting.

Transportation in Alturas City

Alturas, the county seat of Modoc County, CA, features limited public transit via Modoc Transportation Agency’s Sage Stage, with only 0.6% of residents using public transportation (ACS 2022). Most residents (over 80%) commute by driving alone, and the average one-way commute time is approximately 15 minutes, well below the U.S. average. Vehicle ownership is high, averaging 2 cars per household. Major employment hubs include government offices, healthcare, and education sectors. The city is served by U.S. Route 395 and California State Route 299, underpinning its road-focused transportation infrastructure.

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