Arroyo Grande, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,372
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$102,553/yr
-0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,138
-0.7% year-over-year change

Arroyo Grande population

How many people live in Arroyo Grande

Arroyo Grande is home to 18,372 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.2% of Arroyo Grande locals are male, and 55.8% are female.

Total population
18,372
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.2%
8,119
Female
55.8%
10,253
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,119 44.2% -3.7%
Female 10,253 55.8% 2.8%
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 Arroyo Grande is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.6% are children under 15, then 10.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.1% of the population, while another 23% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 27.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.6%
15 to 24
10.9%
25 to 44
22.1%
45 to 64
23%
Over 65
27.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,045 16.6% 5.4%
15 to 24 2,008 10.9% -7.8%
25 to 44 4,066 22.1% -1.2%
45 to 64 4,218 23% -6.4%
Over 65 5,035 27.4% 6.6%
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 Arroyo Grande, 91.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 71.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 3.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 19.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,822 91.6% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,100 6% -5.8%
Non-citizens 450 2.4% 62.5%
Racial breakdown
White
71.2%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
3.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
19.4%
Other
5%
Value Percent
White 13,074 71.2%
Black or African American 49 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 66 0.4%
Asian 694 3.8%
Two or more races 3,565 19.4%
Other 924 5%

Households in Arroyo Grande

A peek inside Arroyo Grande households

Arroyo Grande has 7,712 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.2% are families, while the remaining 34.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,712
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,688
Family households
5,024
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,688 34.8% 1.2%
Family households 5,024 65.2% 0.3%
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 Arroyo Grande

The housing landscape of Arroyo Grande

Arroyo Grande's housing consists of 8,138 units, with 62.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.1% 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 7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,138
-0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,068 62.3%
1 unit, attached 825 10.1%
2 units 170 2.1%
3 or 4 units 203 2.5%
5 to 9 units 212 2.6%
10 to 19 units 440 5.4%
20 to 49 units 250 3.1%
50 or more units 402 4.9%
Mobile home 568 7%
Homes built since 2020
97
136.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Arroyo Grande

In Arroyo Grande, the median construction year is 1980. About 5.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 421 5.2% -5.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 180 2.2% -16.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 606 7.4% -10.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 834 10.2% -4.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,078 25.5% -0.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,269 15.6% -12.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 931 11.4% 10.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,351 16.6% 12.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 371 4.6% 1.9%
Built in 2020 or later 97 1.2% 136.6%
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.

Arroyo Grande occupancy rates

Out of the 7,712 occupied housing units in Arroyo Grande, 60.6% are owner-occupied, while 39.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,712
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,038
Owner occupied
4,674
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,038 39.4% 5.1%
Owner occupied 4,674 60.6% -2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
5.2%
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.

Arroyo Grande housing costs

Housing costs in Arroyo Grande come to a median of $2,085 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,173.

Median housing costs per month
$2,085/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 Arroyo Grande
$2,173/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 Arroyo Grande

Arroyo Grande education at a glance

About 20.6% of the population in Arroyo Grande went to high school, while 25.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.7% earned an associate degree and 25.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 223 1.5% -11.5%
High school diploma 3,019 20.6% -2.3%
College diploma 3,742 25.6% -8.0%
Associate degree 1,567 10.7% 11.8%
Bachelor's degree 3,739 25.5% -2.7%
Graduate degree 2,349 16% 9.9%
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 Arroyo Grande

How much people earn in Arroyo Grande

The average annual household income in Arroyo Grande was $120,664 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $102,553, reflecting a -0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Arroyo Grande
$120,664/year
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Arroyo Grande
$102,553/year
-0.7% year-over-year change

Arroyo Grande income by age

In Arroyo Grande, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $108,536. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $133,551 overall. Overall, 95.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $108,536 -3.6%
45 - 64 $133,551 0.5%
Over 65 $70,440 10.4%
Above poverty level
17,175
Below poverty level
843
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,175 95.3% -0.6%
Below poverty level 843 4.7% 3.6%

Average renter income in Arroyo Grande

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Arroyo Grande, their median household income was $71,929 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$71,929
Rent-to-income ratio
36.3%
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 Arroyo Grande

Workforce and job types in Arroyo Grande

The job market in Arroyo Grande is powered by 8,465 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.6% run their own businesses, 60.7% are employed by private companies, and 17.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,465
-4.8% year-over-year change
White collar
7,405
Blue collar
1,060
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,405 87.5% -1.4%
Blue collar 1,060 12.5% -23.5%
Employer type
Self employees
15.6%
Private companies
60.7%
Governmental workers
17.3%
Not for profit companies
6.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,322 15.6% 3.5%
Private companies 5,140 60.7% -4.0%
Governmental workers 1,466 17.3% -15.2%
Not for profit companies 537 6.3% -0.4%
Unemployment rate
2.9%
20.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Arroyo Grande stands at 2.9%, 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 Arroyo Grande

How people get around in Arroyo Grande

Commuting methods vary: 81% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,644 81% -7.2%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0% -50.0%
Motorcycle 34 0.4% -35.9%
Bicycle 210 2.6% -15.7%
Walk 186 2.3% 1.6%
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 Arroyo Grande by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
93420 31,345 12,672 $110,553 $132,933

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FAQs about Arroyo Grande demographics 

What is the total population of Arroyo Grande?

Arroyo Grande has a total population of 18,372 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Arroyo Grande?

The gender ratio in Arroyo Grande is as follows:
  • 44.2% males (8,119 residents)
  • 55.8% females (10,253 residents)

What is the median age in Arroyo Grande?

The median age in Arroyo Grande is 45.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Arroyo Grande?

The age distribution in Arroyo Grande is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.6% (3,045 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.9% (2,008 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.1% (4,066 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23% (4,218 residents)
  • Over 65: 27.4% (5,035 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Arroyo Grande?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Arroyo Grande is as follows:
  • White: 71.2% (13,074 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (49 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (66 residents)
  • Asian: 3.8% (694 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.4% (3,565 residents)
  • Other: 5% (924 residents)

What percentage of the population in Arroyo Grande are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.6% of the population in Arroyo Grande.

How many housing units are there in Arroyo Grande?

There are 8,138 housing units in Arroyo Grande, 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 Arroyo Grande and what is the average household size?

Arroyo Grande has a total of 7,712 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Arroyo Grande?

Arroyo Grande has a median household income of $102,553, 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 Arroyo Grande?

The employment rate is 97.1% in Arroyo Grande, with a workforce of 8,465 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87.5% (7,405 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12.5% (1,060 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.6% (1,322 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.7% (5,140 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.3% (1,466 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.3% (537 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