Contra Costa County, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,165,012
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$127,229/yr
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
429,260
0.6% year-over-year change

Contra Costa County population

How many people live in Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County is home to 1,165,012 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Contra Costa County locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
1,165,012
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
572,966
Female
50.8%
592,046
Value Percent YoY change
Male 572,966 49.2% 0.3%
Female 592,046 50.8% 0.3%
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 Contra Costa County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.8% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.4% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.8%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
26.4%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
17.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 207,534 17.8% -1.0%
15 to 24 141,326 12.1% 0.4%
25 to 44 307,000 26.4% 0.5%
45 to 64 309,882 26.6% -0.5%
Over 65 199,270 17.1% 2.8%
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 Contra Costa County, 71.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 17.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 41.1% of locals are Caucasian, 8.3% are African American and 18.8% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.5% are Pacific Islanders, while 13.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 16.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
71.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
17.4%
Non-citizens
11%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 834,139 71.6% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 202,620 17.4% 2.9%
Non-citizens 128,253 11% 1.2%
Racial breakdown
White
41.1%
Black or African American
8.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
18.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.5%
Two or more races
16.4%
Other
13.9%
Value Percent
White 479,110 41.1%
Black or African American 96,408 8.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 11,438 1%
Asian 219,557 18.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 5,646 0.5%
Two or more races 190,585 16.4%
Other 162,268 13.9%

Households in Contra Costa County

A peek inside Contra Costa County households

Contra Costa County has 414,417 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.5% are families, while the remaining 28.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
414,417
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
118,199
Family households
296,218
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 118,199 28.5% 0.5%
Family households 296,218 71.5% 0.8%
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 Contra Costa County

The housing landscape of Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County's housing consists of 429,260 units, with 67.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.9% 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 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
429,260
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 289,697 67.5%
1 unit, attached 38,109 8.9%
2 units 6,150 1.4%
3 or 4 units 18,004 4.2%
5 to 9 units 15,814 3.7%
10 to 19 units 13,357 3.1%
20 to 49 units 14,290 3.3%
50 or more units 27,276 6.4%
Mobile home 6,126 1.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 437 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
4,629
66.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Contra Costa County

In Contra Costa County, the median construction year is 1978. About 4.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.4% 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, 5.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 18,236 4.2% 1.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 27,396 6.4% -2.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 53,272 12.4% -0.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 54,107 12.6% -1.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 75,293 17.5% 0.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 68,040 15.8% 1.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 52,603 12.2% -2.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 50,760 11.8% -0.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 24,924 5.8% 12.6%
Built in 2020 or later 4,629 1.1% 66.0%
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.

Contra Costa County occupancy rates

Out of the 414,417 occupied housing units in Contra Costa County, 68% are owner-occupied, while 32% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
414,417
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
132,598
Owner occupied
281,819
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 132,598 32% -0.4%
Owner occupied 281,819 68% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
3.5%
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.

Contra Costa County housing costs

Housing costs in Contra Costa County come to a median of $2,562 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,375.

Median housing costs per month
$2,562/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 Contra Costa County
$2,375/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 Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County education at a glance

About 25.1% of the population in Contra Costa County went to high school, while 19.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 26.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 46,512 5.1% 2.8%
High school diploma 228,556 25.1% 1.6%
College diploma 180,258 19.8% -2.5%
Associate degree 70,876 7.8% 0.1%
Bachelor's degree 237,290 26.1% 1.2%
Graduate degree 145,520 16% 1.6%
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 Contra Costa County

How much people earn in Contra Costa County

The average annual household income in Contra Costa County was $174,872 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $127,229, reflecting a +1.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Contra Costa County
$174,872/year
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Contra Costa County
$127,229/year
1.2% year-over-year change

Contra Costa County income by age

In Contra Costa County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $142,683. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $152,482 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,855, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $90,014 in earnings. Overall, 91.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,855 -5.6%
25 - 44 $142,683 3.0%
45 - 64 $152,482 0.8%
Over 65 $90,014 0.4%
Above poverty level
1,049,625
Below poverty level
95,291
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,049,625 91.7% 0.3%
Below poverty level 95,291 8.3% 1.9%

Employment in Contra Costa County

Workforce and job types in Contra Costa County

The job market in Contra Costa County is powered by 569,123 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.6% run their own businesses, 65% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
569,123
-0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
475,358
Blue collar
93,765
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 475,358 83.5% -0.5%
Blue collar 93,765 16.5% -1.4%
Employer type
Self employees
11.6%
Private companies
65%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 65,785 11.6% -0.8%
Private companies 370,227 65% -1.0%
Governmental workers 83,236 14.6% -0.3%
Not for profit companies 49,875 8.8% 2.3%
Unemployment rate
6.5%
9.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Contra Costa County stands at 6.5%, 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 Contra Costa County

How people get around in Contra Costa County

In Contra Costa County, the average commute time is 35 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 69.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
35 min
-1.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 384,707 69.7% -1.6%
Taxicab 995 0.2% -5.7%
Bus or trolleybus 6,173 1.1% -16.7%
Subway or elevated 15,897 2.9% N/A
Railroad 5,664 1% -16.6%
Ferryboat 841 0.2% 42.5%
Motorcycle 1,077 0.2% -14.5%
Bicycle 1,937 0.4% -11.7%
Walk 9,999 1.8% -1.4%
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 Contra Costa County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94505 14,970 5,446 $146,480 $173,672
94506 27,055 9,185 $250,001 $344,303
94507 14,586 5,098 $250,001 $402,056
94509 70,090 23,476 $86,196 $109,673
94511 1,864 863 $74,972 $86,103
94513 69,755 22,390 $142,223 $168,865
94514 1,953 576 $76,511 $100,457
94516 214 76 $113,333 $153,576
94517 12,316 4,511 $168,921 $199,111
94518 27,345 10,124 $112,094 $148,907

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FAQs about Contra Costa County demographics 

What is the total population of Contra Costa County?

Contra Costa County has a total population of 1,165,012 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 Contra Costa County?

The gender ratio in Contra Costa County is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (572,966 residents)
  • 50.8% females (592,046 residents)

What is the median age in Contra Costa County?

The median age in Contra Costa County is 40.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Contra Costa County?

The age distribution in Contra Costa County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.8% (207,534 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (141,326 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.4% (307,000 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (309,882 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.1% (199,270 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Contra Costa County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Contra Costa County is as follows:
  • White: 41.1% (479,110 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.3% (96,408 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (11,438 residents)
  • Asian: 18.8% (219,557 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.5% (5,646 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.4% (190,585 residents)
  • Other: 13.9% (162,268 residents)

What percentage of the population in Contra Costa County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 71.6% of the population in Contra Costa County.

How many housing units are there in Contra Costa County?

There are 429,260 housing units in Contra Costa County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Contra Costa County and what is the average household size?

Contra Costa County has a total of 414,417 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Contra Costa County?

Contra Costa County has a median household income of $127,229, representing a +1.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Contra Costa County?

The employment rate is 93.5% in Contra Costa County, with a workforce of 569,123 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.5% (475,358 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.5% (93,765 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.6% (65,785 residents)
  • Private companies: 65% (370,227 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (83,236 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.8% (49,875 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