Big Bear Lake, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,041
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,250/yr
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,722
1.2% year-over-year change

Big Bear Lake population

How many people live in Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake is home to 5,041 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.3% of Big Bear Lake locals are male, and 47.7% are female.

Total population
5,041
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.3%
2,636
Female
47.7%
2,405
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,636 52.3% -1.1%
Female 2,405 47.7% 1.3%
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 Big Bear Lake is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.5% are children under 15, then 9.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 30.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.5%
15 to 24
9.4%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
30.4%
Over 65
21.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 731 14.5% -8.7%
15 to 24 473 9.4% 31.4%
25 to 44 1,221 24.2% -8.8%
45 to 64 1,534 30.4% 2.8%
Over 65 1,082 21.5% 3.5%
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 Big Bear Lake, 82.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 67% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 21.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.3%
Non-citizens
7.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,165 82.6% -3.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 519 10.3% 6.1%
Non-citizens 357 7.1% 54.5%
Racial breakdown
White
67%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
21.5%
Other
7.2%
Value Percent
White 3,376 67%
Black or African American 53 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 36 0.7%
Asian 132 2.6%
Two or more races 1,083 21.5%
Other 361 7.2%

Households in Big Bear Lake

A peek inside Big Bear Lake households

Big Bear Lake has 2,308 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.9% are families, while the remaining 44.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,308
3.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,017
Family households
1,291
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,017 44.1% 1.9%
Family households 1,291 55.9% 4.4%
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 Big Bear Lake

The housing landscape of Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake's housing consists of 9,722 units, with 84.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4% 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 2.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,722
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,254 84.9%
1 unit, attached 394 4%
2 units 182 1.9%
3 or 4 units 248 2.6%
5 to 9 units 43 0.4%
10 to 19 units 108 1.1%
20 to 49 units 38 0.4%
50 or more units 194 2%
Mobile home 261 2.7%
Homes built since 2020
22
-4.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Big Bear Lake

In Big Bear Lake, the median construction year is 1976. About 5.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 532 5.5% 2.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 894 9.2% -6.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 617 6.4% -6.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,343 13.8% 3.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,413 24.8% 5.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,762 18.1% -5.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 796 8.2% 16.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,152 11.8% -4.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 191 2% 85.4%
Built in 2020 or later 22 0.2% -4.3%
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.

Big Bear Lake occupancy rates

Out of the 2,308 occupied housing units in Big Bear Lake, 65% are owner-occupied, while 35% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 76.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,308
3.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
809
Owner occupied
1,499
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 809 35% 10.5%
Owner occupied 1,499 65% -0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
76.3%
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.

Big Bear Lake housing costs

Housing costs in Big Bear Lake come to a median of $1,433 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,454.

Median housing costs per month
$1,433/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 Big Bear Lake
$1,454/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 Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake education at a glance

About 30.2% of the population in Big Bear Lake went to high school, while 25% pursued college studies. Another 10.6% earned an associate degree and 19% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 78 1.9% -13.3%
High school diploma 1,244 30.2% -1.1%
College diploma 1,031 25% 5.5%
Associate degree 439 10.6% 12.3%
Bachelor's degree 785 19% -6.5%
Graduate degree 549 13.3% 6.6%
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 Big Bear Lake

How much people earn in Big Bear Lake

The average annual household income in Big Bear Lake was $113,124 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,250, reflecting a +2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Big Bear Lake
$113,124/year
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Big Bear Lake
$76,250/year
2.0% year-over-year change

Big Bear Lake income by age

In Big Bear Lake, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,625. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,368 overall. Overall, 93.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $75,625 -25.3%
45 - 64 $87,368 4.1%
Over 65 $71,938 8.4%
Above poverty level
4,716
Below poverty level
311
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,716 93.8% 3.6%
Below poverty level 311 6.2% -31.8%

Average renter income in Big Bear Lake

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Big Bear Lake, their median household income was $29,833 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 58.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$29,833
Rent-to-income ratio
58.5%
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 Big Bear Lake

Workforce and job types in Big Bear Lake

The job market in Big Bear Lake is powered by 2,513 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 89.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 10.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19.4% run their own businesses, 62.1% are employed by private companies, and 7.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,513
4.4% year-over-year change
White collar
2,251
Blue collar
262
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,251 89.6% 9.5%
Blue collar 262 10.4% -25.6%
Employer type
Self employees
19.4%
Private companies
62.1%
Governmental workers
7.4%
Not for profit companies
11.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 487 19.4% -18.0%
Private companies 1,560 62.1% 6.3%
Governmental workers 186 7.4% 24.8%
Not for profit companies 280 11.1% 42.1%
Unemployment rate
5.3%
-15.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Big Bear Lake stands at 5.3%, 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 Big Bear Lake

How people get around in Big Bear Lake

Commuting methods vary: 72.3% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,803 72.3% 2.1%
Bus or trolleybus 61 2.4% N/A
Bicycle 20 0.8% N/A
Walk 67 2.7% 42.5%
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 Big Bear Lake by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
92315 5,215 2,396 $77,436 $112,759

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FAQs about Big Bear Lake demographics 

What is the total population of Big Bear Lake?

Big Bear Lake has a total population of 5,041 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 Big Bear Lake?

The gender ratio in Big Bear Lake is as follows:
  • 52.3% males (2,636 residents)
  • 47.7% females (2,405 residents)

What is the median age in Big Bear Lake?

The median age in Big Bear Lake is 46.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Big Bear Lake?

The age distribution in Big Bear Lake is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.5% (731 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.4% (473 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (1,221 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30.4% (1,534 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.5% (1,082 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Big Bear Lake?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Big Bear Lake is as follows:
  • White: 67% (3,376 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (53 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (36 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (132 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 21.5% (1,083 residents)
  • Other: 7.2% (361 residents)

What percentage of the population in Big Bear Lake are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.6% of the population in Big Bear Lake.

How many housing units are there in Big Bear Lake?

There are 9,722 housing units in Big Bear Lake, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Big Bear Lake and what is the average household size?

Big Bear Lake has a total of 2,308 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Big Bear Lake?

Big Bear Lake has a median household income of $76,250, representing a +2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Big Bear Lake?

The employment rate is 94.7% in Big Bear Lake, with a workforce of 2,513 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89.6% (2,251 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 10.4% (262 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19.4% (487 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.1% (1,560 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 7.4% (186 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.1% (280 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