Imperial Beach, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
25,764
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$86,111/yr
8.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,299
0.2% year-over-year change

Imperial Beach population

How many people live in Imperial Beach

Imperial Beach is home to 25,764 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.7% of Imperial Beach locals are male, and 48.3% are female.

Total population
25,764
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.7%
13,316
Female
48.3%
12,448
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,316 51.7% -0.8%
Female 12,448 48.3% -0.3%
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 Imperial Beach is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.9% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 33.6% of the population, while another 23.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.9%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
33.6%
45 to 64
23.6%
Over 65
12.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,865 18.9% -1.1%
15 to 24 3,013 11.7% -7.3%
25 to 44 8,656 33.6% 2.5%
45 to 64 6,073 23.6% -1.2%
Over 65 3,157 12.2% 0.6%
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 Imperial Beach, 81.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 40% of locals are Caucasian, 3.9% are African American and 6.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.5% are Pacific Islanders, while 15.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 33.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.6%
Non-citizens
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 20,920 81.2% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,472 9.6% -9.3%
Non-citizens 2,372 9.2% -1.4%
Racial breakdown
White
40%
Black or African American
3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
6.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.5%
Two or more races
33.6%
Other
15.3%
Value Percent
White 10,295 40%
Black or African American 1,010 3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 116 0.4%
Asian 1,590 6.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 139 0.5%
Two or more races 8,667 33.6%
Other 3,947 15.3%

Households in Imperial Beach

A peek inside Imperial Beach households

Imperial Beach has 9,340 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.4% are families, while the remaining 35.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,340
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,321
Family households
6,019
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,321 35.6% 2.9%
Family households 6,019 64.4% -1.0%
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 Imperial Beach

The housing landscape of Imperial Beach

Imperial Beach's housing consists of 10,299 units, with 41.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.6% 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 0.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,299
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,305 41.8%
1 unit, attached 1,195 11.6%
2 units 280 2.7%
3 or 4 units 869 8.4%
5 to 9 units 1,282 12.4%
10 to 19 units 1,411 13.7%
20 to 49 units 519 5%
50 or more units 316 3.1%
Mobile home 93 0.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 29 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
47
-29.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Imperial Beach

In Imperial Beach, the median construction year is 1971. About 4.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 468 4.5% 136.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 463 4.5% -6.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,368 23% 4.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,630 15.8% -9.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,966 19.1% -1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,490 14.5% -13.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 844 8.2% 23.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 352 3.4% 15.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 671 6.5% -8.7%
Built in 2020 or later 47 0.5% -29.9%
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.

Imperial Beach occupancy rates

Out of the 9,340 occupied housing units in Imperial Beach, 31.4% are owner-occupied, while 68.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,340
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,412
Owner occupied
2,928
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,412 68.6% -0.7%
Owner occupied 2,928 31.4% 2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
9.3%
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.

Imperial Beach housing costs

Housing costs in Imperial Beach come to a median of $2,036 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,011.

Median housing costs per month
$2,036/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 Imperial Beach
$2,011/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 Imperial Beach

Imperial Beach education at a glance

About 36.6% of the population in Imperial Beach went to high school, while 25.4% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 17.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 979 4.9% -8.7%
High school diploma 7,366 36.6% -7.6%
College diploma 5,115 25.4% 2.1%
Associate degree 1,573 7.8% -7.6%
Bachelor's degree 3,605 17.9% 12.6%
Graduate degree 1,475 7.3% 11.9%
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 Imperial Beach

How much people earn in Imperial Beach

The average annual household income in Imperial Beach was $111,390 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $86,111, reflecting a +8.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Imperial Beach
$111,390/year
7.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Imperial Beach
$86,111/year
8.9% year-over-year change

Imperial Beach income by age

In Imperial Beach, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,044. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $90,410 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $91,359, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $65,292 in earnings. Overall, 85.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $91,359 15.7%
25 - 44 $90,044 19.7%
45 - 64 $90,410 -2.8%
Over 65 $65,292 4.3%
Above poverty level
21,476
Below poverty level
3,722
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 21,476 85.2% -0.4%
Below poverty level 3,722 14.8% -3.0%

Average renter income in Imperial Beach

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Imperial Beach, their median household income was $61,588 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$61,588
Rent-to-income ratio
39.2%
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 Imperial Beach

Workforce and job types in Imperial Beach

The job market in Imperial Beach is powered by 12,474 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.1% run their own businesses, 65.6% are employed by private companies, and 18.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,474
-1.3% year-over-year change
White collar
9,574
Blue collar
2,900
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,574 76.8% 0.9%
Blue collar 2,900 23.2% -8.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7.1%
Private companies
65.6%
Governmental workers
18.8%
Not for profit companies
8.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 881 7.1% -23.6%
Private companies 8,177 65.6% 0.7%
Governmental workers 2,345 18.8% -4.0%
Not for profit companies 1,071 8.6% 15.8%
Unemployment rate
7.1%
-10.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Imperial Beach stands at 7.1%, 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 Imperial Beach

How people get around in Imperial Beach

Commuting methods vary: 80.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.6% 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 10,466 80.1% -3.1%
Taxicab 2 0% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 426 3.3% -14.1%
Subway or elevated 23 0.2% N/A
Railroad 37 0.3% -2.6%
Ferryboat 15 0.1% -6.2%
Motorcycle 63 0.5% 1,160.0%
Bicycle 45 0.3% -49.4%
Walk 471 3.6% 0.9%
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 Imperial Beach by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
91932 25,741 9,332 $85,833 $111,313

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FAQs about Imperial Beach demographics 

What is the total population of Imperial Beach?

Imperial Beach has a total population of 25,764 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Imperial Beach?

The gender ratio in Imperial Beach is as follows:
  • 51.7% males (13,316 residents)
  • 48.3% females (12,448 residents)

What is the median age in Imperial Beach?

The median age in Imperial Beach is 35.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Imperial Beach?

The age distribution in Imperial Beach is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.9% (4,865 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (3,013 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 33.6% (8,656 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.6% (6,073 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.2% (3,157 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Imperial Beach?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Imperial Beach is as follows:
  • White: 40% (10,295 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.9% (1,010 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (116 residents)
  • Asian: 6.2% (1,590 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.5% (139 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 33.6% (8,667 residents)
  • Other: 15.3% (3,947 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.2% of the population in Imperial Beach.

How many housing units are there in Imperial Beach?

There are 10,299 housing units in Imperial Beach, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Imperial Beach has a total of 9,340 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Imperial Beach?

Imperial Beach has a median household income of $86,111, representing a +8.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Imperial Beach?

The employment rate is 92.9% in Imperial Beach, with a workforce of 12,474 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.8% (9,574 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.2% (2,900 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.1% (881 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.6% (8,177 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.8% (2,345 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.6% (1,071 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