El Cerrito, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
31,319
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$118,379/yr
-5.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,809
0.9% year-over-year change

El Cerrito population

How many people live in El Cerrito

El Cerrito is home to 31,319 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of El Cerrito locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
31,319
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
15,574
Female
50.3%
15,745
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,574 49.7% 2.3%
Female 15,745 50.3% 0.5%
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 El Cerrito is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 15% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.9% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
15%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
29.9%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
19.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,705 15% 2.8%
15 to 24 3,095 9.9% 0.6%
25 to 44 9,370 29.9% 2.7%
45 to 64 8,063 25.7% -3.7%
Over 65 6,086 19.4% 5.9%
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 El Cerrito, 68.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 21% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 44.4% of locals are Caucasian, 5% are African American and 25% have Asian roots. Another 1.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 16.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
68.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
21%
Non-citizens
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,393 68.3% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,567 21% 9.7%
Non-citizens 3,359 10.7% -10.5%
Racial breakdown
White
44.4%
Black or African American
5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.1%
Asian
25%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
16.7%
Other
7.8%
Value Percent
White 13,907 44.4%
Black or African American 1,562 5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 333 1.1%
Asian 7,823 25%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 45 0.1%
Two or more races 5,217 16.7%
Other 2,432 7.8%

Households in El Cerrito

A peek inside El Cerrito households

El Cerrito has 12,332 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.7% are families, while the remaining 35.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,332
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,348
Family households
7,984
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,348 35.3% 3.2%
Family households 7,984 64.7% 0.5%
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 El Cerrito

The housing landscape of El Cerrito

El Cerrito's housing consists of 12,809 units, with 70.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.7% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
12,809
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,995 70.2%
1 unit, attached 475 3.7%
2 units 294 2.3%
3 or 4 units 1,090 8.5%
5 to 9 units 450 3.5%
10 to 19 units 511 4%
20 to 49 units 312 2.4%
50 or more units 682 5.3%
Homes built since 2020
53
278.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in El Cerrito

In El Cerrito, the median construction year is 1968. About 12.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 17.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,554 12.1% 3.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,251 17.6% -1.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,129 24.4% -0.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,642 12.8% 17.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,360 10.6% -15.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,213 9.5% -0.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 465 3.6% -14.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 756 5.9% 11.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 386 3% 33.1%
Built in 2020 or later 53 0.4% 278.6%
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.

El Cerrito occupancy rates

Out of the 12,332 occupied housing units in El Cerrito, 61.4% are owner-occupied, while 38.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,332
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,755
Owner occupied
7,577
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,755 38.6% -2.3%
Owner occupied 7,577 61.4% 4.0%
Unoccupied housing units
3.7%
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.

El Cerrito housing costs

Housing costs in El Cerrito come to a median of $2,344 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,168.

Median housing costs per month
$2,344/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 El Cerrito
$2,168/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 El Cerrito

El Cerrito education at a glance

About 17.7% of the population in El Cerrito went to high school, while 15.9% pursued college studies. Another 5.2% earned an associate degree and 31.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 26% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 947 3.7% 31.4%
High school diploma 4,542 17.7% -3.2%
College diploma 4,068 15.9% -2.0%
Associate degree 1,326 5.2% -17.2%
Bachelor's degree 8,109 31.6% 8.2%
Graduate degree 6,665 26% 0.4%
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 El Cerrito

How much people earn in El Cerrito

The average annual household income in El Cerrito was $147,647 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $118,379, reflecting a -5.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in El Cerrito
$147,647/year
-2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in El Cerrito
$118,379/year
-5.3% year-over-year change

El Cerrito income by age

In El Cerrito, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $133,327. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $138,838 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $48,659, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $70,795 in earnings. Overall, 93% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $48,659 -42.3%
25 - 44 $133,327 -5.1%
45 - 64 $138,838 3.7%
Over 65 $70,795 -14.7%
Above poverty level
28,584
Below poverty level
2,145
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 28,584 93% 1.3%
Below poverty level 2,145 7% -2.5%

Average renter income in El Cerrito

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in El Cerrito, their median household income was $83,735 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$83,735
Rent-to-income ratio
31.1%
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 El Cerrito

Workforce and job types in El Cerrito

The job market in El Cerrito is powered by 15,971 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 88.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.3% run their own businesses, 57% are employed by private companies, and 20% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,971
-2.1% year-over-year change
White collar
14,155
Blue collar
1,816
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 14,155 88.6% -0.6%
Blue collar 1,816 11.4% -12.1%
Employer type
Self employees
12.3%
Private companies
57%
Governmental workers
20%
Not for profit companies
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,959 12.3% -6.8%
Private companies 9,107 57% -3.4%
Governmental workers 3,191 20% 2.3%
Not for profit companies 1,714 10.7% 3.3%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
21.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in El Cerrito stands at 5.8%, 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 El Cerrito

How people get around in El Cerrito

In El Cerrito, the average commute time is 33 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
33 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,207 86.3% -4.6%
Taxicab 157 1.6% 9.0%
Bus or trolleybus 262 2.8% -2.2%
Railroad 135 1.4% -22.9%
Ferryboat 87 0.9% 93.3%
Motorcycle 54 0.6% 8.0%
Bicycle 193 2% -18.2%
Walk 413 4.3% 1.7%
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 El Cerrito by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94530 26,401 11,021 $128,529 $175,088

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FAQs about El Cerrito demographics 

What is the total population of El Cerrito?

El Cerrito has a total population of 31,319 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 +1.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in El Cerrito?

The gender ratio in El Cerrito is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (15,574 residents)
  • 50.3% females (15,745 residents)

What is the median age in El Cerrito?

The median age in El Cerrito is 39.

What is the age distribution of the population in El Cerrito?

The age distribution in El Cerrito is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15% (4,705 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (3,095 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.9% (9,370 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (8,063 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.4% (6,086 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of El Cerrito?

The racial and ethnic makeup of El Cerrito is as follows:
  • White: 44.4% (13,907 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5% (1,562 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.1% (333 residents)
  • Asian: 25% (7,823 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (45 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.7% (5,217 residents)
  • Other: 7.8% (2,432 residents)

What percentage of the population in El Cerrito are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 68.3% of the population in El Cerrito.

How many housing units are there in El Cerrito?

There are 12,809 housing units in El Cerrito, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in El Cerrito and what is the average household size?

El Cerrito has a total of 12,332 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in El Cerrito?

El Cerrito has a median household income of $118,379, representing a -5.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for El Cerrito?

The employment rate is 94.2% in El Cerrito, with a workforce of 15,971 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88.6% (14,155 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11.4% (1,816 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.3% (1,959 residents)
  • Private companies: 57% (9,107 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20% (3,191 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.7% (1,714 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