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

Total population
29,423
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$140,268/yr
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,977
0.8% year-over-year change

El Sobrante population

How many people live in El Sobrante

El Sobrante is home to 29,423 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of El Sobrante locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
29,423
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
14,777
Female
49.8%
14,646
Value Percent YoY change
Male 14,777 50.2% 1.4%
Female 14,646 49.8% 1.3%
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 El Sobrante is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.7% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.1% of the population, while another 27% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
40
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.7%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
28.1%
45 to 64
27%
Over 65
15.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,493 18.7% 0.5%
15 to 24 3,285 11.2% 11.7%
25 to 44 8,272 28.1% 2.9%
45 to 64 7,931 27% -1.3%
Over 65 4,442 15.1% -2.3%
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 Sobrante, 69.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 20.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 38.4% of locals are Caucasian, 6.9% are African American and 17.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.9% are Pacific Islanders, while 16.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 18.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
69.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
20.6%
Non-citizens
10%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 20,401 69.3% 3.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,064 20.6% 0.9%
Non-citizens 2,958 10% -11.4%
Racial breakdown
White
38.4%
Black or African American
6.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
17.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.9%
Two or more races
18.9%
Other
16.9%
Value Percent
White 11,299 38.4%
Black or African American 2,036 6.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 69 0.2%
Asian 5,231 17.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 256 0.9%
Two or more races 5,549 18.9%
Other 4,983 16.9%

Households in El Sobrante

A peek inside El Sobrante households

El Sobrante has 9,359 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 81.5% are families, while the remaining 18.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,359
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,733
Family households
7,626
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,733 18.5% 4.5%
Family households 7,626 81.5% 0.2%
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 Sobrante

The housing landscape of El Sobrante

El Sobrante's housing consists of 9,977 units, with 81.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.1% 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% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,977
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,157 81.8%
1 unit, attached 409 4.1%
2 units 151 1.5%
3 or 4 units 291 2.9%
5 to 9 units 160 1.6%
10 to 19 units 241 2.4%
20 to 49 units 265 2.7%
50 or more units 204 2%
Mobile home 99 1%
Homes built since 2020
58
-7.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in El Sobrante

In El Sobrante, the median construction year is 1981. About 3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 298 3% -13.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 908 9.1% -11.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,835 18.4% 5.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 756 7.6% 6.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 917 9.2% 9.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,524 15.3% 29.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,109 11.1% -1.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,184 21.9% -14.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 388 3.9% 24.0%
Built in 2020 or later 58 0.6% -7.9%
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 Sobrante occupancy rates

Out of the 9,359 occupied housing units in El Sobrante, 77.4% are owner-occupied, while 22.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,359
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,111
Owner occupied
7,248
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,111 22.6% -8.3%
Owner occupied 7,248 77.4% 4.1%
Unoccupied housing units
6.2%
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 Sobrante housing costs

Housing costs in El Sobrante come to a median of $2,732 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,548.

Median housing costs per month
$2,732/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 Sobrante
$2,548/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 Sobrante

El Sobrante education at a glance

About 27% of the population in El Sobrante went to high school, while 24.1% pursued college studies. Another 8.8% earned an associate degree and 22.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 856 3.8% 3.5%
High school diploma 6,159 27% 1.7%
College diploma 5,494 24.1% 0.0%
Associate degree 2,000 8.8% 6.5%
Bachelor's degree 5,132 22.5% -3.3%
Graduate degree 3,163 13.9% 3.2%
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 Sobrante

How much people earn in El Sobrante

The average annual household income in El Sobrante was $167,491 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $140,268, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in El Sobrante
$167,491/year
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in El Sobrante
$140,268/year
2.8% year-over-year change

El Sobrante income by age

In El Sobrante, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $145,876. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $151,850 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $79,663, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $106,058 in earnings. Overall, 92.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $79,663 -1.8%
25 - 44 $145,876 -8.2%
45 - 64 $151,850 2.5%
Over 65 $106,058 11.0%
Above poverty level
26,863
Below poverty level
2,166
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 26,863 92.5% 1.6%
Below poverty level 2,166 7.5% -2.1%

Employment in El Sobrante

Workforce and job types in El Sobrante

The job market in El Sobrante is powered by 14,944 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.2% run their own businesses, 61.4% are employed by private companies, and 17.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,944
1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
11,986
Blue collar
2,958
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,986 80.2% 0.5%
Blue collar 2,958 19.8% 7.1%
Employer type
Self employees
13.2%
Private companies
61.4%
Governmental workers
17.6%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,970 13.2% 5.7%
Private companies 9,183 61.4% 2.5%
Governmental workers 2,629 17.6% -8.6%
Not for profit companies 1,162 7.8% 17.9%
Unemployment rate
5.6%
14.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in El Sobrante stands at 5.6%, 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 Sobrante

How people get around in El Sobrante

Commuting methods vary: 97.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 11,145 97.3% 3.3%
Bus or trolleybus 75 0.6% -72.9%
Railroad 52 0.4% -48.0%
Ferryboat 14 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 88 0.8% -15.4%
Bicycle 6 0% -33.3%
Walk 79 0.7% 102.6%
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 Sobrante by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94803 27,659 9,562 $118,447 $153,188

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FAQs about El Sobrante demographics 

What is the total population of El Sobrante?

El Sobrante has a total population of 29,423 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 Sobrante?

The gender ratio in El Sobrante is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (14,777 residents)
  • 49.8% females (14,646 residents)

What is the median age in El Sobrante?

The median age in El Sobrante is 40.

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

The age distribution in El Sobrante is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.7% (5,493 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (3,285 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.1% (8,272 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27% (7,931 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.1% (4,442 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of El Sobrante?

The racial and ethnic makeup of El Sobrante is as follows:
  • White: 38.4% (11,299 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.9% (2,036 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (69 residents)
  • Asian: 17.8% (5,231 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.9% (256 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 18.9% (5,549 residents)
  • Other: 16.9% (4,983 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 69.3% of the population in El Sobrante.

How many housing units are there in El Sobrante?

There are 9,977 housing units in El Sobrante, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

El Sobrante has a total of 9,359 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in El Sobrante?

El Sobrante has a median household income of $140,268, representing a +2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.4% in El Sobrante, with a workforce of 14,944 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.2% (11,986 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.8% (2,958 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.2% (1,970 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.4% (9,183 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.6% (2,629 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (1,162 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