What Is Living in Mendota CA Like? 🌳 Explore More With Our Moving to Mendota Guide

Are you wondering what living in Mendota CA is like? This Fresno County city has deep roots in the agriculture industry and a history in the railroad industry. It was founded in 1891, with its first post office opening in 1892; it was incorporated as a California city in 1942. The most common crop grown in Mendota is Cantaloupe, hence its nickname “The Cantaloupe Center of the World.” 

Before moving to Mendota, you should consider what it's known for, what it's near, and what it will cost you to live there. We cover each of these topics in-depth below!

What Is Mendota Known for?

Mendota is recognized as a prominent contributor to the nation's agricultural industry, particularly in Cantaloupe crops. Its rich land attracts large-scale agriculture companies, which provide jobs for its residents, further stimulating its economy.

Where Is Mendota California?

Mendota, California, is located in Fresno County, 34.4 miles east of Fresno in California's Central Valley. Other nearby communities include Old Fig Garden, West Park, and Calwa. Living in Mendota CA provides proximity to top cities and their attractions.

Mendota Population & Demographics

With a population of 9,557, Mendota is a small town. The United States Census Bureau states that its racial and ethnic makeup is highly diverse, with 58.2% of its residents identifying as White (47% non-Hispanic or Latino) and 35.7% being Hispanic or Latino. 5.5% of people living in Mendota CA are Black or African American, 19.1% are two or more races.

5.2% are Asian, and 0.8% are Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islanders, 0% are American Indian or Alaska Native. Approximately 87.9% of Mendota residents aged five and older speak a language other than English at home.

Additional Demographics

• Median age: 24.9
• Sex ratio: 51 males to 49 females
• Poverty rate: 11.4%
• Mean travel time to work: 34.5 minutes
• Educational attainment: 39.4% have high school diplomas, and 4.5% have bachelor's degrees or higher
• Owner-occupied housing units: 47%
• Median income: $70,466
• Per capita income: $37,463

People living in Mendota CA are young (58% being 29 years old or younger) and are primarily manual laborers who commute to Fresno, which is roughly 42 minutes west. Despite having a lower educational attainment than its metro, residents are nearly earning the country's median household income, which is $78,538.

Mendota CA Crime Rate

According to the FBI, the crime rate in Mendota, California, is 31.7% lower than the state rate.

16.4% lower than the country. Explore what to expect from the crime when living in Mendota CA.

• Mendota CA crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,942
• California crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,843
• US crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,324

Its violent crime rate follows a slightly different trend:

• Mendota violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 608
• California violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 500
• US violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 370

However, there is nearly no property crime in Mendota, according to the FBI crime rate statistics provided by the Mendota Police Department. In 2023, 107 violent crimes were reported in Mendota, but only 90 were property-related.

• Mendota property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,334
• California property crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,343
• US property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,954

The property crime rate in Mendota is 43.1% lower than the state average and 31.7% lower than the national average, making it a very safe place to live.

When you compare Mendota’s figures to the crime rate in Clovis (1,922 per 100,000 people), a city 43 miles west, you’ll find the overall area boasts a low crime rate. Living in Mendota CA is safe, making it an ideal place for families and the elderly.

Cost of Living in Mendota

With a Cost of Living Index (COLI) of 99, the city of Mendota CA is 1% more affordable than the average US city and 29% less expensive than the average city in California, as the state COLI is 144.8. However, the Economic Policy Institute suggests a household income of $102,425 for a family of four to live comfortably in Fresno County, which is slightly above Mendota's median household income.

The EPI predicts that housing will cost around $1,443 per month, with food and groceries costing $978 when living in Mendota CA. California has the highest grocery prices in the country, with the average household spending $297.72 a week, meaning groceries in Mendota are more affordable than in other Golden State cities.

Typical Mendota* living expenses:

• Inexpensive restaurant meal: $19.00
• Gallon of milk: $3.64
• Loaf of white bread: $2.26
• Pound of white rice: $2.19
• Dozen eggs: $3.72
• Average Fresno County utility bill per month: $160

*The cost of living in Fresno is 109, meaning prices are likely lower when living in Mendota CA.

Mendota CA Real Estate Market

Is living in Mendota CA affordable for those looking to buy a house? Homes for sale in Mendota CA are highly affordable when compared to the state's $866,100 median sale price).

and US ($419,200) median sale prices. Mendota has a median sale price of $230,000, or $178 per square foot. Homes typically sit on the market for 16 days or less, so acting fast is key!

According to Zillow, 53% of people living in Mendota are renters, who pay an average monthly rent of $1,500 for all bedrooms and property types. Many residents utilize the city's low-income housing options, which offer housing for as low as $573.00 per month.

If you plan to relocate to an apartment, consider letting affordable apartment movers handle the heavy lifting!

Mendota CA Weather & Climate Overview

Mendota California, has a semi-arid climate, or BSk, according to the Köppen Climate Classification system. When living in Mendota CA, the summers are hot and dry, and the winters are cold and cloudy. The city experiences 262 sunny days annually and only 36 rainy days.

Temperatures vary drastically here, ranging from 39 degrees Fahrenheit to 97 degrees Fahrenheit, with dramatic seasonal changes. For instance, there is a 25% chance of rain on any given day in February, compared to 0% in July.

The best time to visit the city of Mendota is between early June and late September, when temperatures are warm and rainfall is minimal.

Things to Do in Mendota CA

Mendota, California, is a small town, meaning that traveling out of the city for activities is common. While there are a handful of city parks and nearby recreational activities, you will find even more to do in Fresno. If you’re planning a visit before making the move, it’s a good idea to look into comfortable short-term stays in the area. You can explore nearby rental options through Vacation Cottage, making it easier to experience Mendota and its surrounding attractions at your own pace.

Rojas Pierce Park

Rojas Pierce Park provides a large playground and basketball court. It’s also dog-friendly, making it the ideal place for the whole family to enjoy.

297 San Pedro St, Mendota, CA 93640, (559) 655-3291

Mendota Wildlife Area Headquarters

Experience the breathtaking views of California’s Central Valley at the Mendota Wildlife Area Headquarters. This state-administered parkland serves as a refuge for thousands of wildlife species and features 11,000 acres of flatlands and floodplains to explore. Mendota Wildlife Area is one of the best things to do when living in Mendota CA.

4333 Santa Fe County Rd, Mendota, CA 93640, (559) 655-4645

Additional Attractions

• Maldonado Park - Located in Firebaugh
• Fresno Discovery Center - Located in Fresno
• Lions Town & Country Park - Located in Madera

For more information on the parks system in your potential new home, look to the Mendota Recreation Commission, which maintains and manages all parks and recreation facilities within the city limits.

Mendota Restaurants

Living in Mendota CA provides access to countless Hispanic eateries from varying cultures. Take a look at the top Mendota CA restaurants below.

Restaurante de María

Maria’s provides a dining experience like no other. From its authentic Mexican burritos to the welcoming atmosphere, this spot will quickly become a go-to after moving to Mendota.

1285 Oller St, Mendota, CA 93640, (559) 655-2618

Star Burger

You can also find American cuisine in this predominantly Hispanic city! Check out Star Burger if you’re craving a hefty burger, fries, and a shake. It’s a dine-in or drive-thru, ensuring optimal convenience for its beloved customers.

296 Oller St, Mendota, CA 93640, (559) 655-4995

Pizza Factory

Pizza Factory is a regional chain that offers authentic Italian cuisine at an affordable price and in a convenient manner. This order-at-the-counter pizzeria serves up specialty pies, wings, calzones, and sandwiches, all while providing a relaxed, casual vibe. This is a must-try spot when living in Mendota CA.

747 Derrick Ave, Mendota, CA 93640, (559) 655-3266

Jobs in Mendota CA

Rooted in agriculture, Mendota's economy primarily employs blue-collar workers, with most seeking work that doesn’t involve manual labor, often requiring them to commute to larger nearby cities like Fresno, Clovis, and Modesto.

Coined the "Cantaloupe Center of the World," the city’s major employers include Stamoules Produce, Oro Loma Ranch, Ruby Fresh, Cardella Ranch, and Winery. However, agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting employment options don’t make up 100% of Mendota’s work. The California Department of Federal Correctional Institution employs hundreds of residents in the city.

If you’re seeking Mendota jobs when living in Mendota CA, you should always consider if a commute is doable and if the city’s leading industries will serve your skill set well. Don’t forget to think outside the box, as the city of Mendota jobs offer competitive hourly wages and good benefits.

Mendota Schools

The Mendota Unified School District (MUSD) has been serving K-12 public school students living in Mendota CA, since 1893. The six schools serve 3,920 students, and the minority enrollment is 100%.

The district implements strategies to help non-English speaking students develop their language skills. It also offers adult-learning programs to help non-high school graduates obtain their GED or high school diploma. According to the US Career Institute, Mendota High School has a high school graduation rate of 84.4%.

Specific Schools Serving Residents

• McCabe Elementary School​
• Mendota Elementary School​
• Washington Elementary School​
• Mendota Junior High School​
• Mendota High School​
• Mendota Alternative Education

Notably, MUSD also offers a preschool program, ideal for children aged three to five years old. For more information on preschool enrollment, please call (559) 655-1191 or visit the Mendota State Preschool location at 195 Smoot Ave, Mendota, CA 93640.

Mendota Branch Library

For additional educational resources when living in Mendota CA, visit the Mendota Library. This Fresno County library branch offers laptop checkout services, free Wi-Fi, printer availability, a robust events calendar, and access to thousands of books.

There is free parking on-site, or you can utilize the Fresno County Rural Transit Agency (FCRTA) fixed-route service from public transportation.

Mendota Statistics & Information

• Mendota CA county: Fresno County
• Mendota CA area: 3.39 square miles
• Mendota CA zip code: 93640
• Mendota CA area code: 559
• Mendota CA elevation: 174 feet
• Mendota CA time zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC-7 and –8)
• Closest airport to Mendota: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is 39.2 miles from Mendota

Mendota CA Map

Explore more about this map of Mendota California.

Moving to Mendota With Grace Moving

Living in Mendota CA has so much to offer! If you think this city sounds right for you, call the best Mendota movers, Grace Moving, at (209) 551-7772 for a free estimate.