Grass Valley, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
14,113
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,764/yr
6.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,281
-0.6% year-over-year change

Grass Valley population

How many people live in Grass Valley

Grass Valley is home to 14,113 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.1% of Grass Valley locals are male, and 54.9% are female.

Total population
14,113
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.1%
6,360
Female
54.9%
7,753
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,360 45.1% 0.5%
Female 7,753 54.9% -0.6%
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 Grass Valley is 50, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.4% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.1% of the population, while another 22.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 31.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
49.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.4%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
21.1%
45 to 64
22.8%
Over 65
31.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,029 14.4% -10.3%
15 to 24 1,403 9.9% 32.0%
25 to 44 2,983 21.1% -1.4%
45 to 64 3,215 22.8% -9.3%
Over 65 4,483 31.8% 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 Grass Valley, 90.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.8% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.9%
Non-citizens
4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,727 90.2% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 828 5.9% -0.4%
Non-citizens 558 4% 13.0%
Racial breakdown
White
83.8%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.1%
Other
3%
Value Percent
White 11,832 83.8%
Black or African American 56 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 51 0.4%
Asian 188 1.3%
Two or more races 1,566 11.1%
Other 420 3%

Households in Grass Valley

A peek inside Grass Valley households

Grass Valley has 6,769 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 44.4% are families, while the remaining 55.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,769
-0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,764
Family households
3,005
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,764 55.6% 0.3%
Family households 3,005 44.4% -2.5%
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 Grass Valley

The housing landscape of Grass Valley

Grass Valley's housing consists of 7,281 units, with 47.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.4% 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 6.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,281
-0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,490 47.9%
1 unit, attached 324 4.4%
2 units 458 6.3%
3 or 4 units 447 6.1%
5 to 9 units 570 7.8%
10 to 19 units 448 6.2%
20 to 49 units 446 6.1%
50 or more units 642 8.8%
Mobile home 456 6.3%
Homes built since 2020
228
91.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Grass Valley

In Grass Valley, the median construction year is 1978. About 14.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,027 14.1% 3.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 506 7% -6.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 637 8.8% 37.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 513 7% 2.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,271 17.5% -9.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,209 16.6% -3.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 585 8% -14.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,019 14% -8.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 286 3.9% 14.4%
Built in 2020 or later 228 3.1% 91.6%
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.

Grass Valley occupancy rates

Out of the 6,769 occupied housing units in Grass Valley, 40.2% are owner-occupied, while 59.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,769
-0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,048
Owner occupied
2,721
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,048 59.8% -1.6%
Owner occupied 2,721 40.2% 0.1%
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.

Grass Valley housing costs

Housing costs in Grass Valley come to a median of $1,527 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,458.

Median housing costs per month
$1,527/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 Grass Valley
$1,458/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 Grass Valley

Grass Valley education at a glance

About 28.3% of the population in Grass Valley went to high school, while 31.5% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 19% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 164 1.4% 45.1%
High school diploma 3,265 28.3% -4.8%
College diploma 3,631 31.5% 2.8%
Associate degree 903 7.8% 3.1%
Bachelor's degree 2,184 19% 6.2%
Graduate degree 1,381 12% -2.8%
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 Grass Valley

How much people earn in Grass Valley

The average annual household income in Grass Valley was $69,132 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,764, reflecting a +6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Grass Valley
$69,132/year
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Grass Valley
$51,764/year
6.0% year-over-year change

Grass Valley income by age

In Grass Valley, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,804. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $65,675 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,709, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,194 in earnings. Overall, 78.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,709 N/A
25 - 44 $65,804 9.2%
45 - 64 $65,675 4.9%
Over 65 $44,194 3.2%
Above poverty level
10,514
Below poverty level
2,921
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 10,514 78.3% -1.4%
Below poverty level 2,921 21.7% 7.9%

Average renter income in Grass Valley

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Grass Valley, their median household income was $40,772 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 42.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$40,772
Rent-to-income ratio
42.9%
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 Grass Valley

Workforce and job types in Grass Valley

The job market in Grass Valley is powered by 5,420 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19.4% run their own businesses, 55.1% are employed by private companies, and 19.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,420
-3.4% year-over-year change
White collar
4,552
Blue collar
868
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,552 84% -4.8%
Blue collar 868 16% 4.5%
Employer type
Self employees
19.4%
Private companies
55.1%
Governmental workers
19.1%
Not for profit companies
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,049 19.4% 6.7%
Private companies 2,987 55.1% -15.1%
Governmental workers 1,035 19.1% 42.6%
Not for profit companies 349 6.4% -8.9%
Unemployment rate
7.4%
85.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Grass Valley stands at 7.4%, 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 Grass Valley

How people get around in Grass Valley

Commuting methods vary: 79% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.5% 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 4,228 79% -7.2%
Bicycle 13 0.2% -27.8%
Walk 243 4.5% 23.4%
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 Grass Valley by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
95945 27,470 12,001 $65,989 $93,287
95949 20,552 8,380 $98,181 $120,483

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FAQs about Grass Valley demographics 

What is the total population of Grass Valley?

Grass Valley has a total population of 14,113 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Grass Valley?

The gender ratio in Grass Valley is as follows:
  • 45.1% males (6,360 residents)
  • 54.9% females (7,753 residents)

What is the median age in Grass Valley?

The median age in Grass Valley is 49.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Grass Valley?

The age distribution in Grass Valley is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.4% (2,029 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (1,403 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.1% (2,983 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.8% (3,215 residents)
  • Over 65: 31.8% (4,483 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Grass Valley?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Grass Valley is as follows:
  • White: 83.8% (11,832 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (56 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (51 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (188 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.1% (1,566 residents)
  • Other: 3% (420 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.2% of the population in Grass Valley.

How many housing units are there in Grass Valley?

There are 7,281 housing units in Grass Valley, reflecting a -0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Grass Valley has a total of 6,769 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Grass Valley?

Grass Valley has a median household income of $51,764, representing a +6.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Grass Valley?

The employment rate is 92.6% in Grass Valley, with a workforce of 5,420 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84% (4,552 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16% (868 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19.4% (1,049 residents)
  • Private companies: 55.1% (2,987 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.1% (1,035 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.4% (349 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