East Los Angeles, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
111,647
-2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,741/yr
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
32,141
-0.5% year-over-year change

East Los Angeles population

How many people live in East Los Angeles

East Los Angeles is home to 111,647 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of East Los Angeles locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
111,647
-2.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
56,684
Female
49.2%
54,963
Value Percent YoY change
Male 56,684 50.8% -2.5%
Female 54,963 49.2% -2.6%
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 East Los Angeles is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 16.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.4% of the population, while another 23.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
16.3%
25 to 44
29.4%
45 to 64
23.9%
Over 65
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 20,939 18.8% -8.0%
15 to 24 18,204 16.3% 1.1%
25 to 44 32,779 29.4% -3.5%
45 to 64 26,704 23.9% -1.7%
Over 65 13,021 11.7% 2.4%
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 East Los Angeles, 59.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 15.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 24.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 11.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 20.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
59.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
15.4%
Non-citizens
24.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 66,617 59.7% -2.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 17,181 15.4% -4.7%
Non-citizens 27,849 24.9% -1.6%
Racial breakdown
White
11.1%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.8%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
20.9%
Other
63.3%
Value Percent
White 12,395 11.1%
Black or African American 633 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,142 2.8%
Asian 1,501 1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 33 0%
Two or more races 23,310 20.9%
Other 70,633 63.3%

Households in East Los Angeles

A peek inside East Los Angeles households

East Los Angeles has 30,442 households, with an average of 4 members in each. Of these, 79.6% are families, while the remaining 20.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
30,442
-0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
4
Non-family households
6,206
Family households
24,236
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,206 20.4% 5.2%
Family households 24,236 79.6% -1.9%
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 East Los Angeles

The housing landscape of East Los Angeles

East Los Angeles's housing consists of 32,141 units, with 56.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 17.8% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
32,141
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 18,147 56.5%
1 unit, attached 5,704 17.8%
2 units 1,964 6.1%
3 or 4 units 2,637 8.2%
5 to 9 units 1,694 5.3%
10 to 19 units 641 2%
20 to 49 units 429 1.3%
50 or more units 774 2.4%
Mobile home 132 0.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 19 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
67
235.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in East Los Angeles

In East Los Angeles, the median construction year is 1950. About 34.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 16.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.2% 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 10,976 34.2% -1.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,295 16.5% 4.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,552 14.2% -11.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,582 11.1% 0.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,522 7.8% -13.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,101 6.5% 12.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,101 3.4% -5.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,226 3.8% 34.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 719 2.2% 48.9%
Built in 2020 or later 67 0.2% 235.0%
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.

East Los Angeles occupancy rates

Out of the 30,442 occupied housing units in East Los Angeles, 33.5% are owner-occupied, while 66.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
30,442
-0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
20,237
Owner occupied
10,205
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 20,237 66.5% -0.2%
Owner occupied 10,205 33.5% -1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
5.3%
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.

East Los Angeles housing costs

Housing costs in East Los Angeles come to a median of $1,508 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,494.

Median housing costs per month
$1,508/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 East Los Angeles
$1,494/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 East Los Angeles

East Los Angeles education at a glance

About 42.3% of the population in East Los Angeles went to high school, while 18.4% pursued college studies. Another 4.4% earned an associate degree and 8.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 20,219 23.9% -4.2%
High school diploma 35,807 42.3% -0.6%
College diploma 15,562 18.4% -4.6%
Associate degree 3,691 4.4% -0.1%
Bachelor's degree 6,893 8.1% 5.4%
Graduate degree 2,528 3% 8.5%
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 East Los Angeles

How much people earn in East Los Angeles

The average annual household income in East Los Angeles was $85,941 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,741, reflecting a +0.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in East Los Angeles
$85,941/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in East Los Angeles
$68,741/year
0.5% year-over-year change

East Los Angeles income by age

In East Los Angeles, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $74,105. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,310 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $59,727, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $36,087 in earnings. Overall, 82.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $59,727 -13.9%
25 - 44 $74,105 0.5%
45 - 64 $78,310 2.6%
Over 65 $36,087 -0.6%
Above poverty level
91,187
Below poverty level
19,039
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 91,187 82.7% -3.1%
Below poverty level 19,039 17.3% 1.9%

Average renter income in East Los Angeles

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in East Los Angeles, their median household income was $52,880 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$52,880
Rent-to-income ratio
33.9%
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 East Los Angeles

Workforce and job types in East Los Angeles

The job market in East Los Angeles is powered by 51,229 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.2% run their own businesses, 71.3% are employed by private companies, and 12.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
51,229
-3.3% year-over-year change
White collar
33,160
Blue collar
18,069
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 33,160 64.7% -2.1%
Blue collar 18,069 35.3% -5.4%
Employer type
Self employees
10.2%
Private companies
71.3%
Governmental workers
12.9%
Not for profit companies
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,222 10.2% 4.1%
Private companies 36,520 71.3% -6.0%
Governmental workers 6,601 12.9% 4.4%
Not for profit companies 2,886 5.6% 2.8%
Unemployment rate
6.8%
10.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in East Los Angeles stands at 6.8%, 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 East Los Angeles

How people get around in East Los Angeles

In East Los Angeles, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 79.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 39,606 79.2% -5.3%
Taxicab 206 0.4% 76.1%
Bus or trolleybus 2,701 5.4% -19.0%
Subway or elevated 92 0.2% N/A
Railroad 176 0.4% 4,300.0%
Motorcycle 139 0.3% 51.1%
Bicycle 349 0.7% 1.8%
Walk 1,546 3.1% 14.9%
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.

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FAQs about East Los Angeles demographics 

What is the total population of East Los Angeles?

East Los Angeles has a total population of 111,647 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 -2.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in East Los Angeles?

The gender ratio in East Los Angeles is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (56,684 residents)
  • 49.2% females (54,963 residents)

What is the median age in East Los Angeles?

The median age in East Los Angeles is 34.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in East Los Angeles?

The age distribution in East Los Angeles is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (20,939 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.3% (18,204 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.4% (32,779 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.9% (26,704 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.7% (13,021 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of East Los Angeles?

The racial and ethnic makeup of East Los Angeles is as follows:
  • White: 11.1% (12,395 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (633 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.8% (3,142 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (1,501 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (33 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 20.9% (23,310 residents)
  • Other: 63.3% (70,633 residents)

What percentage of the population in East Los Angeles are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 59.7% of the population in East Los Angeles.

How many housing units are there in East Los Angeles?

There are 32,141 housing units in East Los Angeles, reflecting a -0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in East Los Angeles and what is the average household size?

East Los Angeles has a total of 30,442 households, with an average of 4 people in each.

What is the median household income in East Los Angeles?

East Los Angeles has a median household income of $68,741, representing a +0.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for East Los Angeles?

The employment rate is 93.2% in East Los Angeles, with a workforce of 51,229 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.7% (33,160 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.3% (18,069 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.2% (5,222 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.3% (36,520 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.9% (6,601 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.6% (2,886 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