Fortuna, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
12,326
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,289/yr
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,295
0.9% year-over-year change

Fortuna population

How many people live in Fortuna

Fortuna is home to 12,326 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.7% of Fortuna locals are male, and 52.3% are female.

Total population
12,326
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.7%
5,884
Female
52.3%
6,442
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,884 47.7% 0.8%
Female 6,442 52.3% -2.0%
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 Fortuna is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 15.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.5% of the population, while another 24.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
15.5%
25 to 44
26.5%
45 to 64
24.4%
Over 65
17.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,000 16.2% -9.8%
15 to 24 1,911 15.5% -5.4%
25 to 44 3,269 26.5% 8.6%
45 to 64 3,012 24.4% -3.5%
Over 65 2,134 17.3% 4.5%
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 Fortuna, 85.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 64.6% of locals are Caucasian, 2% are African American and 2.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 14.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.3%
Non-citizens
8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,564 85.7% -1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 781 6.3% 3.2%
Non-citizens 981 8% 1.9%
Racial breakdown
White
64.6%
Black or African American
2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.6%
Asian
2.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
14.4%
Other
13.7%
Value Percent
White 7,956 64.6%
Black or African American 241 2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 321 2.6%
Asian 348 2.8%
Two or more races 1,769 14.4%
Other 1,691 13.7%

Households in Fortuna

A peek inside Fortuna households

Fortuna has 4,925 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.8% are families, while the remaining 42.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,925
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,078
Family households
2,847
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,078 42.2% 10.9%
Family households 2,847 57.8% -4.5%
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 Fortuna

The housing landscape of Fortuna

Fortuna's housing consists of 5,295 units, with 66.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.4% 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 4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,295
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,505 66.2%
1 unit, attached 339 6.4%
2 units 430 8.1%
3 or 4 units 238 4.5%
5 to 9 units 440 8.3%
10 to 19 units 64 1.2%
20 to 49 units 60 1.1%
50 or more units 10 0.2%
Mobile home 209 4%
Homes built since 2020
65
364.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fortuna

In Fortuna, the median construction year is 1978. About 8.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 458 8.6% -12.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 281 5.3% -7.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 904 17.1% -9.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 389 7.4% -0.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 735 13.9% -4.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 864 16.3% 3.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 639 12.1% 0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 617 11.6% 19.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 343 6.5% 33.0%
Built in 2020 or later 65 1.2% 364.3%
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.

Fortuna occupancy rates

Out of the 4,925 occupied housing units in Fortuna, 56.1% are owner-occupied, while 43.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,925
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,161
Owner occupied
2,764
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,161 43.9% 8.7%
Owner occupied 2,764 56.1% -3.6%
Unoccupied housing units
7.0%
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.

Fortuna housing costs

Housing costs in Fortuna come to a median of $1,299 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,168.

Median housing costs per month
$1,299/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 Fortuna
$1,168/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 Fortuna

Fortuna education at a glance

About 39.9% of the population in Fortuna went to high school, while 25.5% pursued college studies. Another 6.9% earned an associate degree and 13.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 564 5.8% 22.9%
High school diploma 3,903 39.9% 2.9%
College diploma 2,498 25.5% -13.2%
Associate degree 671 6.9% 8.4%
Bachelor's degree 1,340 13.7% 2.4%
Graduate degree 803 8.2% 30.4%
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 Fortuna

How much people earn in Fortuna

The average annual household income in Fortuna was $82,629 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,289, reflecting a +1.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fortuna
$82,629/year
-4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fortuna
$62,289/year
1.1% year-over-year change

Fortuna income by age

In Fortuna, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,357. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,033 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,182, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $41,278 in earnings. Overall, 81.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,182 29.2%
25 - 44 $70,357 0.6%
45 - 64 $70,033 11.7%
Over 65 $41,278 -11.7%
Above poverty level
10,005
Below poverty level
2,225
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 10,005 81.8% -1.7%
Below poverty level 2,225 18.2% 7.5%

Average renter income in Fortuna

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fortuna, their median household income was $39,430 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$39,430
Rent-to-income ratio
35.5%
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 Fortuna

Workforce and job types in Fortuna

The job market in Fortuna is powered by 5,319 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.6% run their own businesses, 62.5% are employed by private companies, and 16.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,319
-0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
3,764
Blue collar
1,555
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,764 70.8% -2.4%
Blue collar 1,555 29.2% 5.9%
Employer type
Self employees
11.6%
Private companies
62.5%
Governmental workers
16.7%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 619 11.6% 0.7%
Private companies 3,323 62.5% 3.0%
Governmental workers 888 16.7% -13.4%
Not for profit companies 489 9.2% 6.8%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
15.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fortuna stands at 7%, 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 Fortuna

How people get around in Fortuna

In Fortuna, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 81.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
9.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,246 81.4% -6.5%
Bus or trolleybus 176 3.4% 109.5%
Motorcycle 9 0.2% -71.0%
Bicycle 41 0.8% -57.7%
Walk 154 3% -27.4%
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 Fortuna by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
95540 14,469 5,689 $63,695 $85,919

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FAQs about Fortuna demographics 

What is the total population of Fortuna?

Fortuna has a total population of 12,326 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fortuna?

The gender ratio in Fortuna is as follows:
  • 47.7% males (5,884 residents)
  • 52.3% females (6,442 residents)

What is the median age in Fortuna?

The median age in Fortuna is 37.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fortuna?

The age distribution in Fortuna is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (2,000 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.5% (1,911 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.5% (3,269 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.4% (3,012 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.3% (2,134 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fortuna?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fortuna is as follows:
  • White: 64.6% (7,956 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2% (241 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.6% (321 residents)
  • Asian: 2.8% (348 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.4% (1,769 residents)
  • Other: 13.7% (1,691 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.7% of the population in Fortuna.

How many housing units are there in Fortuna?

There are 5,295 housing units in Fortuna, 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 Fortuna and what is the average household size?

Fortuna has a total of 4,925 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fortuna?

Fortuna has a median household income of $62,289, representing a +1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Fortuna?

The employment rate is 93% in Fortuna, with a workforce of 5,319 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.8% (3,764 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.2% (1,555 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.6% (619 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.5% (3,323 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.7% (888 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (489 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