South Bay, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
493,664
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$94,901/yr
5.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
163,980
0.7% year-over-year change

South Bay population

How many people live in South Bay

South Bay is home to 493,664 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of South Bay locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
493,664
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
246,137
Female
50.1%
247,527
Value Percent YoY change
Male 246,137 49.9% 0.4%
Female 247,527 50.1% 0.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in South Bay is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.1% are children under 15, then 13.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.9% of the population, while another 24.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.1%
15 to 24
13.5%
25 to 44
28.9%
45 to 64
24.3%
Over 65
14.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 94,270 19.1% -0.4%
15 to 24 66,641 13.5% 1.8%
25 to 44 142,693 28.9% 0.6%
45 to 64 119,843 24.3% -0.9%
Over 65 70,218 14.2% 2.7%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In South Bay, 67% of the population are US-born citizens, while 21.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 27.2% of locals are Caucasian, 4.8% are African American and 13% have Asian roots. Another 1.2% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 19.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 33.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
67%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
21.2%
Non-citizens
11.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 330,990 67% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 104,495 21.2% 0.8%
Non-citizens 58,180 11.8% -1.1%
Racial breakdown
White
27.2%
Black or African American
4.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
13%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
33.6%
Other
19.9%
Value Percent
White 134,060 27.2%
Black or African American 23,648 4.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,894 1.2%
Asian 64,018 13%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,731 0.4%
Two or more races 165,931 33.6%
Other 98,382 19.9%

Households in South Bay

A peek inside South Bay households

South Bay has 153,386 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 77% are families, while the remaining 23% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
153,386
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
35,293
Family households
118,093
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 35,293 23% -0.0%
Family households 118,093 77% 1.1%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in South Bay

The housing landscape of South Bay

South Bay's housing consists of 163,980 units, with 50% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.5% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 3.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
163,980
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 81,925 50%
1 unit, attached 18,856 11.5%
2 units 2,927 1.8%
3 or 4 units 9,206 5.6%
5 to 9 units 10,482 6.4%
10 to 19 units 10,470 6.4%
20 to 49 units 8,001 4.9%
50 or more units 15,740 9.6%
Mobile home 6,178 3.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 195 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
2,993
110.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Bay

In South Bay, the median construction year is 1978. About 2.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,756 2.9% 7.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,937 3.6% -1.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 19,051 11.6% -2.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 22,272 13.6% -2.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 30,706 18.7% 3.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 21,689 13.2% -0.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 15,837 9.7% -7.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 27,409 16.7% -1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 13,331 8.1% 9.3%
Built in 2020 or later 2,993 1.8% 110.0%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

South Bay occupancy rates

Out of the 153,386 occupied housing units in South Bay, 54.5% are owner-occupied, while 45.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
153,386
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
69,758
Owner occupied
83,628
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 69,758 45.5% 1.3%
Owner occupied 83,628 54.5% 0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
6.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

South Bay housing costs

Housing costs in South Bay come to a median of $2,137 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,195.

Median housing costs per month
$2,137/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in South Bay
$2,195/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in South Bay

South Bay education at a glance

About 33.2% of the population in South Bay went to high school, while 24.2% pursued college studies. Another 8.8% earned an associate degree and 18.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 26,873 7.1% -0.3%
High school diploma 125,582 33.2% 0.6%
College diploma 91,383 24.2% -1.3%
Associate degree 33,063 8.8% -0.8%
Bachelor's degree 68,350 18.1% 1.7%
Graduate degree 32,551 8.6% 6.4%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in South Bay

How much people earn in South Bay

The average annual household income in South Bay was $128,045 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $94,901, reflecting a +5.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Bay
$128,045/year
3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Bay
$94,901/year
5.4% year-over-year change

South Bay income by age

In South Bay, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $98,482. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $103,451 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $71,298, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $74,208 in earnings. Overall, 90% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $71,298 -1.1%
25 - 44 $98,482 7.5%
45 - 64 $103,451 0.4%
Over 65 $74,208 7.4%
Above poverty level
429,637
Below poverty level
47,903
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 429,637 90% -0.3%
Below poverty level 47,903 10% 1.1%

Employment in South Bay

Workforce and job types in South Bay

78.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 64.2% are employed by private companies, and 18.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
175,011
Blue collar
47,233
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 175,011 78.8% 0.8%
Blue collar 47,233 21.2% -1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
64.2%
Governmental workers
18.5%
Not for profit companies
8.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 19,977 9% -0.4%
Private companies 142,797 64.2% -1.5%
Governmental workers 41,058 18.5% 4.0%
Not for profit companies 18,413 8.3% 7.5%

Transportation in South Bay

How people get around in South Bay

In South Bay, the average commute time is 144 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 94.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
144 min
188.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 189,459 94.2% -0.2%
Taxicab 439 0.2% 57.9%
Bus or trolleybus 4,308 2.1% -4.0%
Railroad 122 0.1% -2.4%
Ferryboat 45 0% 28.6%
Motorcycle 774 0.4% 32.8%
Bicycle 550 0.3% -11.0%
Walk 5,421 2.7% 25.8%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in South Bay by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
92154 80,445 23,019 $94,901 $110,572
92118 18,929 7,303 $134,534 $203,077
91902 17,698 6,127 $122,524 $162,495
91910 77,123 26,230 $90,222 $112,189
91911 85,542 25,440 $82,350 $107,209
91913 57,721 17,428 $129,337 $154,122
91914 16,877 4,820 $190,786 $197,734
91915 35,322 10,677 $139,503 $151,804
91932 25,741 9,332 $85,833 $111,313
91950 59,891 18,358 $66,426 $83,815

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about South Bay demographics 

What is the total population of South Bay?

South Bay has a total population of 493,664 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in South Bay?

The gender ratio in South Bay is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (246,137 residents)
  • 50.1% females (247,527 residents)

What is the median age in South Bay?

The median age in South Bay is 36.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Bay?

The age distribution in South Bay is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.1% (94,270 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.5% (66,641 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.9% (142,693 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.3% (119,843 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.2% (70,218 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Bay?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Bay is as follows:
  • White: 27.2% (134,060 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.8% (23,648 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (5,894 residents)
  • Asian: 13% (64,018 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (1,731 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 33.6% (165,931 residents)
  • Other: 19.9% (98,382 residents)

What percentage of the population in South Bay are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 67% of the population in South Bay.

How many housing units are there in South Bay?

There are 163,980 housing units in South Bay, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in South Bay and what is the average household size?

South Bay has a total of 153,386 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Bay?

South Bay has a median household income of $94,901, representing a +5.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for South Bay?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.8% (175,011 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.2% (47,233 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (19,977 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.2% (142,797 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.5% (41,058 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.3% (18,413 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025