Is Ridgecrest, CA (China Lake Acres) a Safe Place to Live? Housing, Crime & Buyer Guide
Explore safety, home prices, commute patterns, and neighborhood insights in Ridgecrest, 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)
0 Registered Offenders Nearby
Crime Details:
Recent reported incidents in the past 12 months (newest first). Up to 10 records.
| Crime date | Crime description | Address | Crime category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 4, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, fire crews responded to a small grass fire in the 600 block of Beck Street in the Station 31 area. The fire was estimated at about a quarter acre with a slow rate of spread and appeared manageable with the units on scene. | Beck St, Randsburg, CA 93554 | Fire |
| Jun 21, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, dispatchers reported a possible assault involving a vehicle near St Elmo Street and Johannesburg in Johannesburg, California. The person involved was said to be in a white Mustang last seen heading west on Johannesburg, possibly toward an address on P Avenue. Medical responders later indicated that no injuries or medical aid were needed. | St Elmo St, Johannesburg, CA 93528 | Assault |
| Jun 21, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, dispatch received a report that a roommate’s daughter was inside a residence near Goler, yelling, and reportedly under the influence. The reporting party also indicated she may be being forced to stay in the home, and there was discussion that the mother and daughter have residency there. Units were sent to check the situation. | Goler Ave, Johannesburg, CA 93528 | Family Offense |
| Jun 21, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, deputies responded to a reported disturbance at a residence near Goler Avenue in Johannesburg, where a woman was reportedly yelling inside the home and may have been under the influence while trying to pick up clothes. | Goler Ave, Johannesburg, CA 93528 | Disorderly Conduct |
| Jun 18, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, officers are responding to a possible overturned vehicle near a historic cafe in Red Mountain and have requested a tow truck. | 701 US-395, Randsburg, CA 93554 | Traffic |
| May 9, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, deputies were informed of a possible assault involving a male subject near the intersection of Goler Avenue and St. Elmo Street in Johannesburg. The man, described as the roommate of the reporting party, was last seen heading south on St. Elmo. | Goler Ave & St Elmo St, Johannesburg, CA 93528 | Assault |
| May 9, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, report of a battery (242) upgraded to an assault with a deadly weapon (245) near Goler and St. Elmo. A male subject (name withheld) reportedly made suicidal statements and referenced “suicide by cop”; a possible revolver/weapon was heard in the background. Last seen southbound on St. Elmo from the Goler/St. Elmo area. | Goler Ave & St Elmo St, Johannesburg, CA 93528 | Weapons |
Overview
China Lake Acres is a remote neighborhood in Ridgecrest, CA, with a median home price of $381,348 and average rent of $2,018, both below most California neighborhoods.
The area features mostly medium to large single-family and mobile homes, with a high vacancy rate of 16.9%, indicating many empty properties.
Quick Facts
| Government Employment | 24.1% of workforce |
|---|
Housing market and real estate character
Housing in China Lake Acres consists mainly of medium to large single-family homes and mobile homes, with most residences owner occupied.
| Mobile Home Share | 37.9% |
|---|---|
| Built 1970-1999 | Majority of homes |
| Owner Occupied | Majority |
What buyers will notice right away
Families & Lifestyle
The neighborhood has a diverse population with a strong presence of government workers and executive professionals.
| Executive, Management & Professional Jobs | 52.4% |
|---|---|
| Government Employment | 24.1% |
Demographics
| Upper-Middle Income | Higher income than 68.3% of U.S. neighborhoods |
|---|---|
| English Speakers | 83.0% of households |
| Other Languages | Spanish, Italian |
| Top Ancestries | German (24.2%), Irish (19.8%), Mexican (11.6%), Italian (5.8%), English (5.1%) |
Commute
Most residents have short to moderate commutes, primarily driving alone.
The neighborhood's commute patterns reflect a car-dependent community with many working government jobs nearby.
| Commute Time | 15-30 minutes for 46.7% |
|---|---|
| Drive Alone | 76.5% |
| Carpool | 10.1% |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the median home price in China Lake Acres?
The median home price is $381,348, which is less expensive than 90.6% of California neighborhoods.
What types of homes are common?
The neighborhood has many medium to large single-family homes and a high share of mobile homes (37.9%).
What is the vacancy rate?
Vacancy rate is 16.9%, higher than 83.1% of U.S. neighborhoods, indicating many empty homes.