Sierra Vista, AZ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
45,155
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,291/yr
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
20,662
1.5% year-over-year change

Sierra Vista population

How many people live in Sierra Vista

Sierra Vista is home to 45,155 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Sierra Vista locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
45,155
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
22,530
Female
50.1%
22,625
Value Percent YoY change
Male 22,530 49.9% -1.2%
Female 22,625 50.1% 1.1%
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 Sierra Vista is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.9% are children under 15, then 12% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.8% of the population, while another 18.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.9%
15 to 24
12%
25 to 44
28.8%
45 to 64
18.5%
Over 65
21.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,540 18.9% -1.8%
15 to 24 5,422 12% -2.4%
25 to 44 12,996 28.8% 2.0%
45 to 64 8,338 18.5% -1.4%
Over 65 9,859 21.8% 1.1%
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 Sierra Vista, 85.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 62.9% of locals are Caucasian, 6.8% are African American and 3.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.5% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 20.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.8%
Non-citizens
3.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 38,724 85.8% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,859 10.8% 3.0%
Non-citizens 1,572 3.5% 10.0%
Racial breakdown
White
62.9%
Black or African American
6.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
3.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.5%
Two or more races
20.6%
Other
5.1%
Value Percent
White 28,394 62.9%
Black or African American 3,050 6.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 296 0.7%
Asian 1,607 3.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 220 0.5%
Two or more races 9,299 20.6%
Other 2,289 5.1%

Households in Sierra Vista

A peek inside Sierra Vista households

Sierra Vista has 18,862 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.1% are families, while the remaining 37.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
18,862
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,156
Family households
11,706
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,156 37.9% 3.9%
Family households 11,706 62.1% 0.0%
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 Sierra Vista

The housing landscape of Sierra Vista

Sierra Vista's housing consists of 20,662 units, with 66.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.5% 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 6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
20,662
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,754 66.6%
1 unit, attached 933 4.5%
2 units 139 0.7%
3 or 4 units 762 3.7%
5 to 9 units 579 2.8%
10 to 19 units 1,255 6.1%
20 to 49 units 815 3.9%
50 or more units 1,183 5.7%
Mobile home 1,241 6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
199
105.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sierra Vista

In Sierra Vista, the median construction year is 1990. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 22.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 161 0.8% 114.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 9 0% -40.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 902 4.4% -16.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,020 4.9% -16.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,804 18.4% -3.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,382 21.2% 5.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,481 16.8% 2.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,588 22.2% 0.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,116 10.2% 14.9%
Built in 2020 or later 199 1% 105.2%
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.

Sierra Vista occupancy rates

Out of the 18,862 occupied housing units in Sierra Vista, 62% are owner-occupied, while 38% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
18,862
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,169
Owner occupied
11,693
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,169 38% 0.2%
Owner occupied 11,693 62% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
8.7%
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.

Sierra Vista housing costs

Housing costs in Sierra Vista come to a median of $1,094 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,150.

Median housing costs per month
$1,094/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 Sierra Vista
$1,150/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 Sierra Vista

Sierra Vista education at a glance

About 28% of the population in Sierra Vista went to high school, while 26.4% pursued college studies. Another 12.3% earned an associate degree and 19.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 640 1.8% -8.4%
High school diploma 9,828 28% -3.1%
College diploma 9,264 26.4% -0.1%
Associate degree 4,326 12.3% 9.7%
Bachelor's degree 6,754 19.2% 1.9%
Graduate degree 4,297 12.2% -0.5%
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 Sierra Vista

How much people earn in Sierra Vista

The average annual household income in Sierra Vista was $86,521 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $70,291, reflecting a +0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sierra Vista
$86,521/year
-2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sierra Vista
$70,291/year
0.7% year-over-year change

Sierra Vista income by age

In Sierra Vista, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,969. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,069 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $57,535, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,706 in earnings. Overall, 87.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,535 40.2%
25 - 44 $80,969 2.6%
45 - 64 $95,069 -3.8%
Over 65 $53,706 0.3%
Above poverty level
37,510
Below poverty level
5,162
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 37,510 87.9% -0.5%
Below poverty level 5,162 12.1% 11.4%

Average renter income in Sierra Vista

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sierra Vista, their median household income was $49,183 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 28.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$49,183
Rent-to-income ratio
28.1%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Sierra Vista

Workforce and job types in Sierra Vista

The job market in Sierra Vista is powered by 17,069 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 85.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.3% run their own businesses, 55.8% are employed by private companies, and 27.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,069
7.0% year-over-year change
White collar
14,649
Blue collar
2,420
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 14,649 85.8% 6.6%
Blue collar 2,420 14.2% 9.7%
Employer type
Self employees
8.3%
Private companies
55.8%
Governmental workers
27.6%
Not for profit companies
8.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,412 8.3% 57.8%
Private companies 9,530 55.8% 4.4%
Governmental workers 4,707 27.6% 0.2%
Not for profit companies 1,420 8.3% 15.9%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
-10.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sierra Vista stands at 4.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Sierra Vista

How people get around in Sierra Vista

In Sierra Vista, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,853 83.2% 1.4%
Taxicab 62 0.3% 244.4%
Bus or trolleybus 24 0.1% 20.0%
Motorcycle 189 0.9% 5.0%
Bicycle 58 0.3% -37.6%
Walk 439 2.2% -5.6%
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 Sierra Vista by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
85611 1,454 585 $91,458 $94,758
85635 34,193 15,610 $61,580 $78,747
85650 14,876 6,348 $91,654 $108,867

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FAQs about Sierra Vista demographics 

What is the total population of Sierra Vista?

Sierra Vista has a total population of 45,155 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sierra Vista?

The gender ratio in Sierra Vista is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (22,530 residents)
  • 50.1% females (22,625 residents)

What is the median age in Sierra Vista?

The median age in Sierra Vista is 37.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sierra Vista?

The age distribution in Sierra Vista is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.9% (8,540 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12% (5,422 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.8% (12,996 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.5% (8,338 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.8% (9,859 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sierra Vista?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sierra Vista is as follows:
  • White: 62.9% (28,394 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.8% (3,050 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (296 residents)
  • Asian: 3.6% (1,607 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.5% (220 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 20.6% (9,299 residents)
  • Other: 5.1% (2,289 residents)

What percentage of the population in Sierra Vista are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.8% of the population in Sierra Vista.

How many housing units are there in Sierra Vista?

There are 20,662 housing units in Sierra Vista, reflecting a +1.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Sierra Vista and what is the average household size?

Sierra Vista has a total of 18,862 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sierra Vista?

Sierra Vista has a median household income of $70,291, representing a +0.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Sierra Vista?

The employment rate is 95.2% in Sierra Vista, with a workforce of 17,069 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.8% (14,649 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.2% (2,420 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.3% (1,412 residents)
  • Private companies: 55.8% (9,530 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 27.6% (4,707 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.3% (1,420 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