If you are moving to Monterey, the California DMV says you must get a California driver license within 10 days of becoming a resident and register an out-of-state vehicle within 20 days. The Census Bureau reports median gross rent of $2,353 and a median owner-occupied home value of $1,076,300 (2020–2024), with 36.2% of units owner-occupied. These are figures for the City of Monterey only. This is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice.
Monterey at a glance (U.S. Census Bureau)
| Measure | Value | Period |
|---|---|---|
| Population estimate | 28,953 | July 1, 2025 |
| Population (decennial census) | 30,218 | April 1, 2020 |
| Median gross rent | $2,353 | 2020–2024 |
| Median value of owner-occupied housing units | $1,076,300 | 2020–2024 |
| Owner-occupied housing unit rate | 36.2% | 2020–2024 |
| Median household income | $102,846 | 2020–2024 |
| Land area | 8.65 square miles | 2020 |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts.
First 90 days checklist
- Driver license: get a California license within 10 days of becoming a resident (California DMV).
- Vehicle: register an out-of-state vehicle within 20 days (California DMV).
- Address: notify the DMV of a new address within 10 days of moving.
- Housing: compare areas on the neighborhoods guide and the real estate guide; verify licensees with the state.
- Hiring help: check contractor licenses with the Contractors State License Board.
- Support: 211 Monterey County; 988 for crisis support.
Getting around
MST's single ride is $2.00; see transportation.
Limits
This page does not cover immigration, schooling, insurance, income taxes or legal issues; consult the relevant agency or a licensed professional.