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

Total population
112,004
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$81,522/yr
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
32,510
0.0% year-over-year change

Santa Maria Valley population

How many people live in Santa Maria Valley

Santa Maria Valley is home to 112,004 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Santa Maria Valley locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
112,004
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
56,059
Female
50%
55,945
Value Percent YoY change
Male 56,059 50% 0.3%
Female 55,945 50% 0.2%
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 Maria Valley is 31, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.5% are children under 15, then 17.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.4% of the population, while another 19.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
30.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.5%
15 to 24
17.6%
25 to 44
25.4%
45 to 64
19.8%
Over 65
12.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 27,477 24.5% -0.0%
15 to 24 19,759 17.6% 2.7%
25 to 44 28,437 25.4% -1.0%
45 to 64 22,210 19.8% 0.4%
Over 65 14,121 12.6% 0.1%
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 Santa Maria Valley, 69.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 19.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 31.9% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 4.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 41.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
69.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.3%
Non-citizens
19.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 77,633 69.3% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 12,685 11.3% 3.3%
Non-citizens 21,686 19.4% 0.8%
Racial breakdown
White
31.9%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.3%
Asian
4.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
41.2%
Other
18.4%
Value Percent
White 35,690 31.9%
Black or African American 1,105 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,652 3.3%
Asian 4,731 4.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 44 0%
Two or more races 46,196 41.2%
Other 20,586 18.4%

Households in Santa Maria Valley

A peek inside Santa Maria Valley households

Santa Maria Valley has 31,452 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 78% are families, while the remaining 22% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
31,452
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
6,907
Family households
24,545
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,907 22% 4.3%
Family households 24,545 78% -0.6%
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 Maria Valley

The housing landscape of Santa Maria Valley

Santa Maria Valley's housing consists of 32,510 units, with 65.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.4% 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 6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
32,510
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 21,367 65.7%
1 unit, attached 1,760 5.4%
2 units 691 2.1%
3 or 4 units 1,740 5.4%
5 to 9 units 1,672 5.1%
10 to 19 units 1,534 4.7%
20 to 49 units 607 1.9%
50 or more units 1,149 3.5%
Mobile home 1,940 6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 52 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
427
70.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Santa Maria Valley

In Santa Maria Valley, the median construction year is 1983. About 2.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 950 2.9% -9.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 678 2.1% -11.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,230 9.9% 3.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,644 14.3% -4.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,161 15.9% -1.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,485 20% 0.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,562 11% -1.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,438 13.6% -5.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,935 9% 20.9%
Built in 2020 or later 427 1.3% 70.1%
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 Maria Valley occupancy rates

Out of the 31,452 occupied housing units in Santa Maria Valley, 58% are owner-occupied, while 42% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
31,452
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
13,208
Owner occupied
18,244
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 13,208 42% 3.0%
Owner occupied 18,244 58% -1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
3.3%
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.

Santa Maria Valley housing costs

Housing costs in Santa Maria Valley come to a median of $1,861 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,856.

Median housing costs per month
$1,861/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 Maria Valley
$1,856/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 Maria Valley

Santa Maria Valley education at a glance

About 33.8% of the population in Santa Maria Valley went to high school, while 21.4% pursued college studies. Another 7.9% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 15,524 19.8% 1.2%
High school diploma 26,468 33.8% 2.7%
College diploma 16,790 21.4% -6.3%
Associate degree 6,204 7.9% 0.7%
Bachelor's degree 9,441 12% 3.4%
Graduate degree 3,989 5.1% 2.9%
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 Santa Maria Valley

How much people earn in Santa Maria Valley

The average annual household income in Santa Maria Valley was $113,296 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 $81,522, reflecting a +3.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Santa Maria Valley
$113,296/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Santa Maria Valley
$81,522/year
3.4% year-over-year change

Santa Maria Valley income by age

In Santa Maria Valley, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $88,537. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,363 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,420, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $61,008 in earnings. Overall, 84.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,420 1.0%
25 - 44 $88,537 8.1%
45 - 64 $95,363 -0.1%
Over 65 $61,008 -4.7%
Above poverty level
92,942
Below poverty level
16,825
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 92,942 84.7% -1.2%
Below poverty level 16,825 15.3% 10.8%

Employment in Santa Maria Valley

Workforce and job types in Santa Maria Valley

62.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 71.1% are employed by private companies, and 14.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
31,131
Blue collar
18,800
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 31,131 62.4% 3.0%
Blue collar 18,800 37.6% -1.5%
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
71.1%
Governmental workers
14.8%
Not for profit companies
6.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,798 7.6% -5.6%
Private companies 35,501 71.1% 1.9%
Governmental workers 7,385 14.8% 0.5%
Not for profit companies 3,247 6.5% 4.6%

Transportation in Santa Maria Valley

How people get around in Santa Maria Valley

In Santa Maria Valley, the average commute time is 70 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 95.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
70 min
48.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 43,774 95.9% 0.8%
Taxicab 61 0.1% 41.9%
Bus or trolleybus 883 1.9% 4.5%
Railroad 8 0% N/A
Motorcycle 44 0.1% -17.0%
Bicycle 220 0.5% 1.9%
Walk 636 1.4% 19.1%
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 Maria Valley by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
93454 41,896 12,050 $81,522 $101,214
93455 44,611 15,476 $110,661 $138,699
93458 59,148 14,085 $75,257 $92,686
93429 99 58 $169,063 $148,569
93434 8,603 2,111 $67,231 $86,754

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FAQs about Santa Maria Valley demographics 

What is the total population of Santa Maria Valley?

Santa Maria Valley has a total population of 112,004 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Santa Maria Valley?

The gender ratio in Santa Maria Valley is as follows:
  • 50% males (56,059 residents)
  • 50% females (55,945 residents)

What is the median age in Santa Maria Valley?

The median age in Santa Maria Valley is 30.9.

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

The age distribution in Santa Maria Valley is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.5% (27,477 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17.6% (19,759 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.4% (28,437 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.8% (22,210 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.6% (14,121 residents)

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

The racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Maria Valley is as follows:
  • White: 31.9% (35,690 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (1,105 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.3% (3,652 residents)
  • Asian: 4.2% (4,731 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (44 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 41.2% (46,196 residents)
  • Other: 18.4% (20,586 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 69.3% of the population in Santa Maria Valley.

How many housing units are there in Santa Maria Valley?

There are 32,510 housing units in Santa Maria Valley, reflecting a +0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Santa Maria Valley and what is the average household size?

Santa Maria Valley has a total of 31,452 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Santa Maria Valley?

Santa Maria Valley has a median household income of $81,522, representing a +3.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Santa Maria Valley?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62.4% (31,131 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37.6% (18,800 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (3,798 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.1% (35,501 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.8% (7,385 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.5% (3,247 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