Santa Ynez Valley, Central Coast, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
30,153
-1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$116,314/yr
-10.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,996
0.7% year-over-year change

Santa Ynez Valley population

How many people live in Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Ynez Valley is home to 30,153 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Santa Ynez Valley locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
30,153
-1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
14,595
Female
51.6%
15,558
Value Percent YoY change
Male 14,595 48.4% -1.0%
Female 15,558 51.6% -1.0%
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 Santa Ynez Valley is 51, with the population distributed as follows: about 14% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.8% of the population, while another 25.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 28.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
51
Age breakdown
Under 15
14%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
22.8%
45 to 64
25.1%
Over 65
28.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,208 14% -0.5%
15 to 24 2,996 9.9% 1.6%
25 to 44 6,885 22.8% -1.0%
45 to 64 7,576 25.1% -6.7%
Over 65 8,487 28.2% 3.3%
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 Santa Ynez Valley, 83.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 72.7% of locals are Caucasian, 1.8% are African American and 2.3% have Asian roots. Another 1.3% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 16.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
83.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.7%
Non-citizens
6.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 25,177 83.5% -1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,938 9.7% 0.8%
Non-citizens 2,037 6.8% 5.4%
Racial breakdown
White
72.7%
Black or African American
1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
16.2%
Other
5.5%
Value Percent
White 21,921 72.7%
Black or African American 551 1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 403 1.3%
Asian 698 2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 63 0.2%
Two or more races 4,872 16.2%
Other 1,645 5.5%

Households in Santa Ynez Valley

A peek inside Santa Ynez Valley households

Santa Ynez Valley has 12,513 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.6% are families, while the remaining 40.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,513
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,054
Family households
7,459
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,054 40.4% 4.4%
Family households 7,459 59.6% -2.5%
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 Santa Ynez Valley

The housing landscape of Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Ynez Valley's housing consists of 13,996 units, with 65.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.6% 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 4.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,996
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,150 65.4%
1 unit, attached 923 6.6%
2 units 368 2.6%
3 or 4 units 529 3.8%
5 to 9 units 670 4.8%
10 to 19 units 517 3.7%
20 to 49 units 773 5.5%
50 or more units 418 3%
Mobile home 648 4.6%
Homes built since 2020
96
88.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Santa Ynez Valley

In Santa Ynez Valley, the median construction year is 1982. About 9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,255 9% 12.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 736 5.3% 5.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,359 9.7% -10.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,104 15% 7.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,571 18.4% -7.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,404 17.2% -0.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,546 11% -9.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,122 8% 8.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 804 5.7% 26.4%
Built in 2020 or later 96 0.7% 88.2%
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.

Santa Ynez Valley occupancy rates

Out of the 12,513 occupied housing units in Santa Ynez Valley, 60.3% are owner-occupied, while 39.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,513
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,964
Owner occupied
7,549
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,964 39.7% 3.5%
Owner occupied 7,549 60.3% -1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
10.6%
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.

Santa Ynez Valley housing costs

Housing costs in Santa Ynez Valley come to a median of $2,508 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,158.

Median housing costs per month
$2,508/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 Santa Ynez Valley
$2,158/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 Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Ynez Valley education at a glance

About 17.8% of the population in Santa Ynez Valley went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.8% earned an associate degree and 26.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 19.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 936 3.7% 15.6%
High school diploma 4,484 17.8% -4.7%
College diploma 5,700 22.6% -2.9%
Associate degree 2,472 9.8% 0.5%
Bachelor's degree 6,682 26.5% -1.4%
Graduate degree 4,953 19.6% 4.1%
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 Santa Ynez Valley

How much people earn in Santa Ynez Valley

The average annual household income in Santa Ynez Valley was $148,836 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $116,314, reflecting a -10.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Santa Ynez Valley
$148,836/year
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Santa Ynez Valley
$116,314/year
-10.4% year-over-year change

Santa Ynez Valley income by age

In Santa Ynez Valley, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $141,206. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $173,304 overall. Overall, 90.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $141,206 2.1%
45 - 64 $173,304 4.7%
Over 65 $90,543 2.7%
Above poverty level
26,481
Below poverty level
2,864
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 26,481 90.2% -2.9%
Below poverty level 2,864 9.8% 15.0%

Employment in Santa Ynez Valley

Workforce and job types in Santa Ynez Valley

88.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19% run their own businesses, 56.2% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
12,809
Blue collar
1,730
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,809 88.1% 0.0%
Blue collar 1,730 11.9% -12.1%
Employer type
Self employees
19%
Private companies
56.2%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
10.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,762 19% -4.4%
Private companies 8,176 56.2% -4.0%
Governmental workers 2,127 14.6% 2.9%
Not for profit companies 1,474 10.1% 13.8%

Transportation in Santa Ynez Valley

How people get around in Santa Ynez Valley

In Santa Ynez Valley, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
-10.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,050 91.5% -2.8%
Taxicab 29 0.3% 61.1%
Bus or trolleybus 126 1.2% -22.2%
Railroad 1 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 28 0.2% -17.6%
Bicycle 138 1.3% 19.0%
Walk 613 5.6% -2.7%
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 Santa Ynez Valley by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
93441 1,134 499 $142,760 $177,120
93460 6,039 2,208 $114,139 $204,827
93463 8,130 3,535 $118,488 $163,761
93105 24,437 10,490 $138,286 $190,587
93427 5,737 2,178 $102,857 $128,338
93440 1,185 542 $79,167 $92,716

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FAQs about Santa Ynez Valley demographics 

What is the total population of Santa Ynez Valley?

Santa Ynez Valley has a total population of 30,153 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 -1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Santa Ynez Valley?

The gender ratio in Santa Ynez Valley is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (14,595 residents)
  • 51.6% females (15,558 residents)

What is the median age in Santa Ynez Valley?

The median age in Santa Ynez Valley is 51.

What is the age distribution of the population in Santa Ynez Valley?

The age distribution in Santa Ynez Valley is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14% (4,208 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (2,996 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.8% (6,885 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.1% (7,576 residents)
  • Over 65: 28.2% (8,487 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Ynez Valley?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Ynez Valley is as follows:
  • White: 72.7% (21,921 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.8% (551 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (403 residents)
  • Asian: 2.3% (698 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (63 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.2% (4,872 residents)
  • Other: 5.5% (1,645 residents)

What percentage of the population in Santa Ynez Valley are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 83.5% of the population in Santa Ynez Valley.

How many housing units are there in Santa Ynez Valley?

There are 13,996 housing units in Santa Ynez Valley, 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 Santa Ynez Valley and what is the average household size?

Santa Ynez Valley has a total of 12,513 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Santa Ynez Valley?

Santa Ynez Valley has a median household income of $116,314, representing a -10.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Santa Ynez Valley?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88.1% (12,809 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11.9% (1,730 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19% (2,762 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.2% (8,176 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (2,127 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.1% (1,474 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