Chester, CA
Is Chester a Safe Place to Live? Housing, Crime & Buyer Guide
Explore safety, home prices, commute patterns, and neighborhood insights in Chester, CA - so you can decide with confidence before buying or renting.
Most buyers only see the home. Smart buyers check the neighborhood first.
Crime Summary:
Crime Overview (last 12 months)
Severe1
Medium0
Low0
Other0
2 Registered Offenders Nearby
Rape0
Child involved2
Assault1
Other0
Crime Details:
Recent reported incidents in the past 12 months (newest first). Up to 10 records.
| Crime date | Crime description | Address | Crime category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 14, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, a caller on Stover Road reported that a person, identified only as an individual known to them, was inside a residence causing property damage. Deputies were notified of a possible burglary in progress. Details are based on radio communication and have not yet been confirmed. | Stover Rd, Chester, CA 96020 | Burglary |
Population
2,187
Vacancy Rate
37.5%
Vacancy Rate
37.5%
Nearby neighborhoods
Overview of Chester, CA
Chester is a very small town in California with a population of 2,187 and a low density of 17 people per square mile, making it less crowded than most of America.
The neighborhood is ethnically diverse with a sizeable Hispanic population (16.37%) and ancestries including English, German, Irish, Italian, and European.
Chester offers a peaceful and quiet environment, ranking better for retirement living than 89.6% of California neighborhoods.
Small TownEthnically DiverseQuietRetiree Friendly
Quick Facts
| Population Density | 17 people/sq mile |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree Holders | 21.52% |
| Hispanic Population | 16.37% |
Housing market and real estate character
Chester's housing market features a high vacancy rate and a mix of housing types with ample space.
| Population Density | 17 people per square mile |
|---|
What buyers will notice right away
A 37.5% vacancy rate may indicate seasonal occupancy or market softness.
Low population density offers wide open spaces and a quiet environment.
Families and Lifestyle
Chester offers a peaceful lifestyle with a mix of occupations and low child poverty.
Low child poverty suggests a supportive environment for families.
The mix of white- and blue-collar jobs reflects diverse employment opportunities.
Quiet and Peaceful — One of the quietest neighborhoods in America, ideal for those seeking tranquility.
Retiree Friendly — Ranks better for retirement living than 89.6% of California neighborhoods.
| Child Poverty Rate | 0.0% |
|---|---|
| Married Couples |
Demographics
| Bachelor's Degree Holders | 21.52% |
|---|---|
| Per Capita Income | $46,687 |
| Family Income (4-person) | $186,748 |
| Hispanic or Latino | 16.37% |
| English Ancestry | 13.5% |
| German Ancestry | 12.7% |
| Languages Spoken | English, Spanish, Slavic |
Commute
Most residents have short commutes and primarily drive alone.
Chester's short commute times and high drive-alone rate reflect a car-dependent but convenient lifestyle.
Short Commutes — Majority of residents spend under 15 minutes commuting.
Car-Dependent — Most residents drive alone, with some carpooling.
| Commute Under 15 Minutes | 65.0% |
|---|---|
| Drive Alone Rate | 84.1% |
| Carpool Rate | 8.9% |
Homes for sale near 96020
For-sale listings in this zip code. Open a property in HoodScore to run a safety report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chester a quiet neighborhood?
Yes, Chester ranks among the quietest neighborhoods in America.
What is the vacancy rate in Chester?
The vacancy rate is 37.5%, higher than 97.2% of US neighborhoods.
What is the education level in Chester?
About 21.52% of adults have at least a bachelor's degree, slightly above the US average.