2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ridgecrest, CA vs Needles, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Needles older or younger than people in Ridgecrest?
- The Median Age in Needles is 8.8 years older than in Ridgecrest.

Are housing costs cheaper in Needles or Ridgecrest?
- Needles housing costs are 24.4% less expensive than Ridgecrest housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Needles or Ridgecrest?
- The average commute for residents of Needles is 7.5 minutes longer than it is for residents of Ridgecrest.

Things to do in Ridgecrest?
Located in the Indian Wells Valley of the Mojave Desert, Ridgecrest is a city in Kern County known for its rich cultural and recreational activities. With a population of over 27,000, this growing city offers attractions such as the desert landscape and nearby mountains, along with local events and recreation opportunities.

Things to do in Needles?
Living in Needles, CA is a unique experience. Settled on the banks of the Colorado River, Needles sits at the crossroads of two states and offers breathtaking desert views. It's a small town with a population of around 5,000, so everything from grocery stores to public schools are within walking distance. Strolling along the nearby trails, you can spot cacti and other desert flora and fauna. Despite its remote location, there is an active nightlife scene with restaurants and bars catering to both locals and visitors alike. Summers can be hot but are usually bearable thanks to the low humidity. Overall, living in Needles is an unforgettable adventure that leaves lasting memories.

 Ridgecrest, CANeedles, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock4,921329,725,481
 Median Income$77,534  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock45.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$245,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.8%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.43  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Ridgecrest    7 Reviews

For context, I grew up in Ridgecrest and moved away after graduating high school. I have since lived in LA and the Bay Area but I visit RC often. RC is in the high  More

   |    Reply

Ridgecrest and Kern County are red state bastions in a land of blue voting counties. If you want a concealed weapons permit, you'll get it. Want to own any firearm  More

   |    Reply

Over 13 years ago

The hardest thing to get used to in Ridgecrest is the weather. It can get quite windy. And hot. 115 hot. But it's a dry heat! It does cool off in the evening, and it  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Ridgecrest

Reviews for Needles    2 Reviews

I own a home in full, with no mortgage and a spacious yard. I can walk to white, sandy beach riverfront in 10 minutes from my front door. In 20 minutes I can be at  More

   |    Reply

Over 15 years ago

Have lived in Needles for 7 years now. This town is being over run with trash. The town is broke due to Dirt bags people that live off of the system. They said  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Needles


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.