Fullerton, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
140,968
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$104,286/yr
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
50,344
1.3% year-over-year change

Fullerton population

How many people live in Fullerton

Fullerton is home to 140,968 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Fullerton locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
140,968
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
69,858
Female
50.4%
71,110
Value Percent YoY change
Male 69,858 49.6% -0.7%
Female 71,110 50.4% 0.2%
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 Fullerton is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.5% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.8% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.5%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
27.8%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
15.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 26,141 18.5% -3.6%
15 to 24 18,914 13.4% -0.9%
25 to 44 39,251 27.8% -0.9%
45 to 64 35,227 25% 0.8%
Over 65 21,435 15.2% 4.6%
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 Fullerton, 68.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 18.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 37.2% of locals are Caucasian, 2% are African American and 24.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.9% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 16.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 18.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
68.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
18.8%
Non-citizens
12.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 97,151 68.9% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 26,490 18.8% 2.2%
Non-citizens 17,327 12.3% 0.2%
Racial breakdown
White
37.2%
Black or African American
2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
24.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
18.4%
Other
16.5%
Value Percent
White 52,445 37.2%
Black or African American 2,848 2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,206 0.9%
Asian 35,077 24.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 269 0.2%
Two or more races 25,907 18.4%
Other 23,216 16.5%

Households in Fullerton

A peek inside Fullerton households

Fullerton has 48,117 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 69.4% are families, while the remaining 30.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
48,117
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
14,727
Family households
33,390
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 14,727 30.6% 4.1%
Family households 33,390 69.4% 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 Fullerton

The housing landscape of Fullerton

Fullerton's housing consists of 50,344 units, with 51.5% 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 2.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
50,344
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 25,941 51.5%
1 unit, attached 4,468 8.9%
2 units 710 1.4%
3 or 4 units 3,307 6.6%
5 to 9 units 2,572 5.1%
10 to 19 units 3,004 6%
20 to 49 units 2,095 4.2%
50 or more units 7,197 14.3%
Mobile home 1,043 2.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 7 0%
Homes built since 2020
346
179.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fullerton

In Fullerton, the median construction year is 1969. About 4.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,379 4.7% -2.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,079 4.1% 14.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 11,022 21.9% -2.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 10,306 20.5% 3.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 10,112 20.1% -3.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,419 10.8% 2.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,487 4.9% -12.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,295 8.5% 4.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,899 3.8% 34.6%
Built in 2020 or later 346 0.7% 179.0%
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.

Fullerton occupancy rates

Out of the 48,117 occupied housing units in Fullerton, 51.8% are owner-occupied, while 48.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
48,117
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
23,170
Owner occupied
24,947
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 23,170 48.2% 0.6%
Owner occupied 24,947 51.8% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
4.4%
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.

Fullerton housing costs

Housing costs in Fullerton come to a median of $2,277 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,194.

Median housing costs per month
$2,277/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 Fullerton
$2,194/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 Fullerton

Fullerton education at a glance

About 22.8% of the population in Fullerton went to high school, while 22.7% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 25.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 6,952 6.3% 11.8%
High school diploma 25,050 22.8% -0.6%
College diploma 24,914 22.7% -3.0%
Associate degree 9,165 8.4% 4.7%
Bachelor's degree 28,302 25.8% 1.1%
Graduate degree 15,390 14% -0.7%
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 Fullerton

How much people earn in Fullerton

The average annual household income in Fullerton was $144,404 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $104,286, reflecting a +0.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fullerton
$144,404/year
3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fullerton
$104,286/year
0.1% year-over-year change

Fullerton income by age

In Fullerton, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $102,100. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $122,551 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,402, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $88,393 in earnings. Overall, 87.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,402 -14.1%
25 - 44 $102,100 1.9%
45 - 64 $122,551 -0.2%
Over 65 $88,393 -5.2%
Above poverty level
120,315
Below poverty level
16,867
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 120,315 87.7% -0.0%
Below poverty level 16,867 12.3% 1.5%

Average renter income in Fullerton

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fullerton, their median household income was $70,777 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$70,777
Rent-to-income ratio
37.2%
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 Fullerton

Workforce and job types in Fullerton

The job market in Fullerton is powered by 69,344 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.4% run their own businesses, 66% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
69,344
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
56,458
Blue collar
12,886
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 56,458 81.4% 1.2%
Blue collar 12,886 18.6% -1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
12.4%
Private companies
66%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 8,632 12.4% 4.4%
Private companies 45,804 66% 0.1%
Governmental workers 10,095 14.6% -0.7%
Not for profit companies 4,813 6.9% 1.7%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
-3.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fullerton stands at 6.3%, 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 Fullerton

How people get around in Fullerton

In Fullerton, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 79% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% 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
1.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 53,195 79% -1.6%
Taxicab 51 0.1% -3.8%
Bus or trolleybus 790 1.2% -14.9%
Subway or elevated 46 0.1% N/A
Railroad 340 0.5% -13.7%
Ferryboat 49 0.1% -29.0%
Motorcycle 121 0.2% 10.0%
Bicycle 419 0.6% -0.9%
Walk 1,590 2.4% 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 Fullerton by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
92831 35,618 13,071 $89,278 $129,135
92832 27,298 8,973 $94,275 $108,408
92833 51,842 16,721 $114,176 $149,066
92835 26,005 9,228 $143,817 $193,616

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FAQs about Fullerton demographics 

What is the total population of Fullerton?

Fullerton has a total population of 140,968 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fullerton?

The gender ratio in Fullerton is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (69,858 residents)
  • 50.4% females (71,110 residents)

What is the median age in Fullerton?

The median age in Fullerton is 36.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fullerton?

The age distribution in Fullerton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.5% (26,141 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (18,914 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.8% (39,251 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (35,227 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.2% (21,435 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fullerton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fullerton is as follows:
  • White: 37.2% (52,445 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2% (2,848 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (1,206 residents)
  • Asian: 24.9% (35,077 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (269 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 18.4% (25,907 residents)
  • Other: 16.5% (23,216 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 68.9% of the population in Fullerton.

How many housing units are there in Fullerton?

There are 50,344 housing units in Fullerton, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fullerton has a total of 48,117 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fullerton?

Fullerton has a median household income of $104,286, representing a +0.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.7% in Fullerton, with a workforce of 69,344 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.4% (56,458 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.6% (12,886 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.4% (8,632 residents)
  • Private companies: 66% (45,804 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (10,095 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.9% (4,813 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