West Imperial, Imperial Valley, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
148,695
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,210/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
46,313
1.2% year-over-year change

West Imperial population

How many people live in West Imperial

West Imperial is home to 148,695 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.4% of West Imperial locals are male, and 48.6% are female.

Total population
148,695
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.4%
76,402
Female
48.6%
72,294
Value Percent YoY change
Male 76,402 51.4% 0.5%
Female 72,294 48.6% 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 West Imperial is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.7% are children under 15, then 14.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.6% of the population, while another 20.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.7%
15 to 24
14.8%
25 to 44
27.6%
45 to 64
20.7%
Over 65
13.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 35,221 23.7% -0.6%
15 to 24 21,943 14.8% 1.6%
25 to 44 41,040 27.6% 1.1%
45 to 64 30,738 20.7% -1.6%
Over 65 19,753 13.3% 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 West Imperial, 65% of the population are US-born citizens, while 19.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 15.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 18.8% of locals are Caucasian, 2.2% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 42.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 33.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
65%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
19.7%
Non-citizens
15.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 96,570 65% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 29,259 19.7% 0.6%
Non-citizens 22,866 15.4% 5.0%
Racial breakdown
White
18.8%
Black or African American
2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
33.5%
Other
42.9%
Value Percent
White 27,966 18.8%
Black or African American 3,317 2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,458 1%
Asian 2,260 1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 187 0.1%
Two or more races 49,755 33.5%
Other 63,752 42.9%

Households in West Imperial

A peek inside West Imperial households

West Imperial has 40,141 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 77.1% are families, while the remaining 22.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
40,141
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
9,182
Family households
30,959
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,182 22.9% 1.0%
Family households 30,959 77.1% 1.7%
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 West Imperial

The housing landscape of West Imperial

West Imperial's housing consists of 46,313 units, with 61.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3% 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 6.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
46,313
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 28,454 61.4%
1 unit, attached 1,402 3%
2 units 1,339 2.9%
3 or 4 units 3,671 7.9%
5 to 9 units 3,719 8%
10 to 19 units 1,914 4.1%
20 to 49 units 1,026 2.2%
50 or more units 1,417 3.1%
Mobile home 3,196 6.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 175 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
1,152
146.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Imperial

In West Imperial, the median construction year is 1985. About 3.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,651 3.6% 3.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,346 2.9% 9.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,757 8.1% -7.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,292 9.3% -0.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,272 13.5% -0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,400 13.8% -3.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 7,670 16.6% -1.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 9,415 20.3% 2.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 4,357 9.4% 3.4%
Built in 2020 or later 1,152 2.5% 146.7%
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.

West Imperial occupancy rates

Out of the 40,141 occupied housing units in West Imperial, 55.6% are owner-occupied, while 44.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
40,141
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
17,840
Owner occupied
22,301
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 17,840 44.4% 1.4%
Owner occupied 22,301 55.6% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
13.3%
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.

West Imperial housing costs

Housing costs in West Imperial come to a median of $1,097 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,070.

Median housing costs per month
$1,097/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 West Imperial
$1,070/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 West Imperial

West Imperial education at a glance

About 39.8% of the population in West Imperial went to high school, while 24.2% pursued college studies. Another 8.7% earned an associate degree and 11.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 12,894 12.1% 0.6%
High school diploma 42,262 39.8% 0.5%
College diploma 25,651 24.2% -1.4%
Associate degree 9,215 8.7% 8.0%
Bachelor's degree 11,744 11.1% 0.7%
Graduate degree 4,417 4.2% -3.4%
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 West Imperial

How much people earn in West Imperial

The average annual household income in West Imperial was $67,217 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,210, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Imperial
$67,217/year
5.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Imperial
$57,210/year
3.0% year-over-year change

West Imperial income by age

In West Imperial, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,463. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $69,682 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $29,913, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,774 in earnings. Overall, 80.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $29,913 -16.1%
25 - 44 $60,463 -4.1%
45 - 64 $69,682 9.3%
Over 65 $44,774 3.3%
Above poverty level
113,548
Below poverty level
27,045
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 113,548 80.8% 1.0%
Below poverty level 27,045 19.2% -0.2%

Employment in West Imperial

Workforce and job types in West Imperial

71.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 60.4% are employed by private companies, and 24.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
37,012
Blue collar
14,751
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 37,012 71.5% -1.0%
Blue collar 14,751 28.5% 6.7%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
60.4%
Governmental workers
24.6%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,590 8.9% 0.5%
Private companies 31,241 60.4% 2.1%
Governmental workers 12,721 24.6% -2.5%
Not for profit companies 3,211 6.2% 7.2%

Transportation in West Imperial

How people get around in West Imperial

In West Imperial, the average commute time is 58 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 96.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
58 min
-24.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 44,710 96.2% 0.7%
Taxicab 192 0.4% 69.9%
Bus or trolleybus 96 0.2% -59.1%
Motorcycle 116 0.2% 16.0%
Bicycle 123 0.3% 7.0%
Walk 1,223 2.6% -6.2%
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 West Imperial by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
92227 28,315 8,209 $59,362 $84,427
92231 38,621 10,081 $49,742 $73,170
92233 6,836 1,282 $53,778 $61,348
92243 49,069 14,260 $55,057 $76,706
92249 7,312 1,815 $72,028 $86,240
92250 7,830 2,160 $72,143 $86,474
92251 27,454 6,760 $90,709 $106,520
92259 198 138 $43,500 $34,141
92273 1,090 350 $62,051 $80,273
92275 1,219 478 $0 $61,368

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FAQs about West Imperial demographics 

What is the total population of West Imperial?

West Imperial has a total population of 148,695 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Imperial?

The gender ratio in West Imperial is as follows:
  • 51.4% males (76,402 residents)
  • 48.6% females (72,294 residents)

What is the median age in West Imperial?

The median age in West Imperial is 34.6.

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

The age distribution in West Imperial is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.7% (35,221 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.8% (21,943 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.6% (41,040 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.7% (30,738 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.3% (19,753 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of West Imperial?

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Imperial is as follows:
  • White: 18.8% (27,966 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.2% (3,317 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (1,458 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (2,260 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (187 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 33.5% (49,755 residents)
  • Other: 42.9% (63,752 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 65% of the population in West Imperial.

How many housing units are there in West Imperial?

There are 46,313 housing units in West Imperial, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

West Imperial has a total of 40,141 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Imperial?

West Imperial has a median household income of $57,210, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for West Imperial?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.5% (37,012 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.5% (14,751 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (4,590 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.4% (31,241 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 24.6% (12,721 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (3,211 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