Gaviota Coast, Central Coast, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
51,304
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$85,067/yr
5.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
17,932
1.9% year-over-year change

Gaviota Coast population

How many people live in Gaviota Coast

Gaviota Coast is home to 51,304 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Gaviota Coast locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
51,304
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
25,713
Female
49.9%
25,590
Value Percent YoY change
Male 25,713 50.1% 0.2%
Female 25,590 49.9% 2.0%
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 Gaviota Coast is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.6% are children under 15, then 36.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.6% of the population, while another 17.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
30
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.6%
15 to 24
36.9%
25 to 44
21.6%
45 to 64
17.8%
Over 65
11.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,476 12.6% -4.7%
15 to 24 18,941 36.9% 1.0%
25 to 44 11,069 21.6% 1.6%
45 to 64 9,124 17.8% 1.6%
Over 65 5,693 11.1% 7.0%
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 Gaviota Coast, 78.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 50.6% of locals are Caucasian, 2.7% are African American and 12.4% have Asian roots. Another 1.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 13.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 19.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.4%
Non-citizens
11.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 40,392 78.7% 1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,833 9.4% -1.4%
Non-citizens 6,078 11.8% 2.5%
Racial breakdown
White
50.6%
Black or African American
2.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
12.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
19.6%
Other
13.3%
Value Percent
White 25,980 50.6%
Black or African American 1,383 2.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 655 1.3%
Asian 6,388 12.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 56 0.1%
Two or more races 10,031 19.6%
Other 6,812 13.3%

Households in Gaviota Coast

A peek inside Gaviota Coast households

Gaviota Coast has 16,783 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 53.2% are families, while the remaining 46.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
16,783
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
7,857
Family households
8,926
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,857 46.8% 0.5%
Family households 8,926 53.2% 3.0%
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 Gaviota Coast

The housing landscape of Gaviota Coast

Gaviota Coast's housing consists of 17,932 units, with 39.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9% 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 4.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
17,932
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,033 39.2%
1 unit, attached 1,612 9%
2 units 551 3.1%
3 or 4 units 1,361 7.6%
5 to 9 units 2,206 12.3%
10 to 19 units 1,685 9.4%
20 to 49 units 1,270 7.1%
50 or more units 1,401 7.8%
Mobile home 794 4.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 19 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
125
20.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Gaviota Coast

In Gaviota Coast, the median construction year is 1974. About 1.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.6% 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, 7.1% 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 283 1.6% 15.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 290 1.6% -28.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,559 8.7% 12.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,430 30.3% 7.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,689 20.6% -8.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,267 12.6% -1.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,587 8.8% -3.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,434 8% 12.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,268 7.1% 7.1%
Built in 2020 or later 125 0.7% 20.2%
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.

Gaviota Coast occupancy rates

Out of the 16,783 occupied housing units in Gaviota Coast, 41.2% are owner-occupied, while 58.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
16,783
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
9,861
Owner occupied
6,922
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 9,861 58.8% 2.4%
Owner occupied 6,922 41.2% 1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
6.4%
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.

Gaviota Coast housing costs

Housing costs in Gaviota Coast come to a median of $1,952 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,854.

Median housing costs per month
$1,952/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 Gaviota Coast
$1,854/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 Gaviota Coast

Gaviota Coast education at a glance

About 21.3% of the population in Gaviota Coast went to high school, while 36.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.9% earned an associate degree and 18.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,882 4.3% -2.0%
High school diploma 9,248 21.3% 4.8%
College diploma 16,027 36.9% -1.1%
Associate degree 3,442 7.9% 4.1%
Bachelor's degree 7,897 18.2% 2.7%
Graduate degree 4,986 11.5% 9.5%
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 Gaviota Coast

How much people earn in Gaviota Coast

The average annual household income in Gaviota Coast was $118,971 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $85,067, reflecting a +5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Gaviota Coast
$118,971/year
6.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Gaviota Coast
$85,067/year
5.0% year-over-year change

Gaviota Coast income by age

In Gaviota Coast, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $98,926. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $124,954 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,085, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $76,587 in earnings. Overall, 76.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,085 4.9%
25 - 44 $98,926 6.3%
45 - 64 $124,954 0.2%
Over 65 $76,587 5.1%
Above poverty level
34,474
Below poverty level
10,396
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 34,474 76.8% 0.5%
Below poverty level 10,396 23.2% -2.1%

Employment in Gaviota Coast

Workforce and job types in Gaviota Coast

84.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 58.7% are employed by private companies, and 22.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
21,935
Blue collar
3,891
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,935 84.9% 2.4%
Blue collar 3,891 15.1% 4.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
58.7%
Governmental workers
22.3%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,381 9.2% 1.8%
Private companies 15,160 58.7% 1.2%
Governmental workers 5,761 22.3% 5.6%
Not for profit companies 2,524 9.8% 5.6%

Transportation in Gaviota Coast

How people get around in Gaviota Coast

In Gaviota Coast, the average commute time is 5 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 79.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 8.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
5 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,698 79.8% 1.7%
Taxicab 17 0.1% 13.3%
Bus or trolleybus 821 3.9% 7.5%
Railroad 21 0.1% 90.9%
Motorcycle 79 0.4% -50.0%
Bicycle 1,484 7.1% -10.3%
Walk 1,810 8.6% 11.5%
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 Gaviota Coast by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
93117 52,934 17,272 $90,037 $124,132
93436 55,820 18,468 $80,097 $100,471

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FAQs about Gaviota Coast demographics 

What is the total population of Gaviota Coast?

Gaviota Coast has a total population of 51,304 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 +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Gaviota Coast?

The gender ratio in Gaviota Coast is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (25,713 residents)
  • 49.9% females (25,590 residents)

What is the median age in Gaviota Coast?

The median age in Gaviota Coast is 30.

What is the age distribution of the population in Gaviota Coast?

The age distribution in Gaviota Coast is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.6% (6,476 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 36.9% (18,941 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.6% (11,069 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.8% (9,124 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.1% (5,693 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Gaviota Coast?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Gaviota Coast is as follows:
  • White: 50.6% (25,980 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.7% (1,383 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (655 residents)
  • Asian: 12.4% (6,388 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (56 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.6% (10,031 residents)
  • Other: 13.3% (6,812 residents)

What percentage of the population in Gaviota Coast are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 78.7% of the population in Gaviota Coast.

How many housing units are there in Gaviota Coast?

There are 17,932 housing units in Gaviota Coast, reflecting a +1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Gaviota Coast and what is the average household size?

Gaviota Coast has a total of 16,783 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Gaviota Coast?

Gaviota Coast has a median household income of $85,067, representing a +5.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Gaviota Coast?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.9% (21,935 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.1% (3,891 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (2,381 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.7% (15,160 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.3% (5,761 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (2,524 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