Arcata

A college town with so much to offer.

Welcome to Arcata

A gorgeous community between Eureka and McKinleyville, Arcata invites you to experience its various wonders. Arcata unfolds as a picturesque town where redwood-clad mountains meet the Pacific Ocean and elegant properties dot the landscape. The cityscape is adorned with the iconic Arcata Plaza, a central hub where locals gather for community events, farmers' markets, and the lively energy that defines Arcata's charm. Another mainstay of the community is the beloved California State Polytechnic University, known for its vibrant campus and innovative academic programs.
 

What to Love

  • Academic excellence and endless Cal Poly spirit
  • A variety of dining options
  • The close-knit community atmosphere with tons of events on the calendar
  • Natural wonders abound in the area
 

Local Lifestyle

The city's dynamic atmosphere is shaped by the presence of Cal Poly Humboldt, infusing youthful energy and a sense of exploration into the community. Residents enjoy the close-knit atmosphere, engage in fun events at the lively Arcata Plaza, and find solace in the natural wonders surrounding them.
 

Dining and Entertainment

Explore the culinary landscape at the Arcata Plaza, where local eateries showcase a unique array of flavors. Check out the dining spots, peruse the local shops, and enjoy the scenery as you take a stroll.
 
For entertainment, Arcata Plaza is full of must-see events. Don’t miss the Arcata Plaza Farmers' Market, where you’ll find an array of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious treats. The annual Arcata Bay Oyster Festival celebrates the local seafood culture, drawing crowds to Arcata Plaza with its lively atmosphere of music, culinary delights, and an abundance of fresh oysters from the Pacific Coast.
 
For 49 years and running, the North Country Fair has been a beloved event that transforms Arcata Plaza into a colorful gathering, showcasing the community's never-ending spirit with live music, arts and crafts vendors, and a diverse array of local cuisine.
 
The Kinetic Grand Championship is a whimsical and unique tradition where human-powered art sculptures navigate a challenging marathon course through land, water, and mud, combining creativity and athleticism in a spectacle that captures the town's inventive spirit.
 
The Samba Parade is led by Samba de Alegria and features energetic dancers, dazzling costumes, and infectious music, creating a festive and joyous celebration. As another must-visit festivity, Pastels on the Plaza is an annual art event and fundraiser where the community comes together to create chalk art masterpieces on the downtown sidewalks, turning the Plaza into a temporary open-air gallery that showcases the town's creativity.
 

Things to Do

The Arcata Marsh Interpretive Center offers a unique exploration of the beauty of wetland ecology. This expansive wetland sanctuary is a testament to the community's dedication to environmental conservation. A network of winding trails meanders through freshwater marshes, saltwater tidal sloughs, and grassy uplands, providing a haven for flora and fauna. Birdwatchers are in for a treat, as the sanctuary serves as a critical stopover for migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway. Interpretive signs dot the landscape, offering insights into the ecological importance of each habitat.
 

Schools

  • California State Polytechnic University

Overview for Arcata, CA

19,038 people live in Arcata, where the median age is 26.9 and the average individual income is $25,475. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

19,038

Total Population

26.9 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$25,475

Average individual Income

Around Arcata, CA

There's plenty to do around Arcata, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

58
Somewhat Walkable
Walking Score
78
Very Bikeable
Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Honeycomb Coffee, Cypress Grove, and Big Island Kine.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 4.72 miles 14 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining · $$$$ 1.34 miles 24 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 0 miles 13 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining · $ 2.92 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.08 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 0.99 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Arcata, CA

Arcata has 7,081 households, with an average household size of 2.45. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Arcata do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 19,038 people call Arcata home. The population density is 2,020.84 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

19,038

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

26.9

Median Age

51.44 / 48.56%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
7,081

Total Households

2.45

Average Household Size

$25,475

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Arcata, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Arcata. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
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