Independence, Inyo County, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
730
-16.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$73,850/yr
15.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
401
-3.8% year-over-year change

Independence population

How many people live in Independence

Independence is home to 730 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53% of Independence locals are male, and 47% are female.

Total population
730
-16.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53%
387
Female
47%
343
Value Percent YoY change
Male 387 53% -17.7%
Female 343 47% -15.3%
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 Independence is 55, with the population distributed as follows: about 18% are children under 15, then 9.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 17.5% of the population, while another 22.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 32% are 65 or older.

Median age
54.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
18%
15 to 24
9.7%
25 to 44
17.5%
45 to 64
22.7%
Over 65
32%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 131 18% -19.1%
15 to 24 71 9.7% -26.8%
25 to 44 128 17.5% -29.3%
45 to 64 166 22.7% -17.4%
Over 65 234 32% 0.0%
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 Independence, 92.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. Another 5.9% are Indigenous American, 0.6% are Pacific Islanders, while 3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 18.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.8%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 674 92.3% -18.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 50 6.8% 21.9%
Non-citizens 6 0.8% -14.3%
Racial breakdown
White
66.2%
Black or African American
6.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
5.9%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.6%
Two or more races
18.2%
Other
3%
Value Percent
White 483 66.2%
Black or African American 45 6.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 43 5.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0.6%
Two or more races 133 18.2%
Other 22 3%

Households in Independence

A peek inside Independence households

Independence has 313 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.5% are families, while the remaining 49.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
313
-8.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
155
Family households
158
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 155 49.5% -0.6%
Family households 158 50.5% -15.5%
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 Independence

The housing landscape of Independence

Independence's housing consists of 401 units, with 86.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.5% 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 12.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
401
-3.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 347 86.5%
1 unit, attached 2 0.5%
3 or 4 units 2 0.5%
Mobile home 50 12.5%
Homes built since 2020
2
0.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Independence

In Independence, the median construction year is 1956. About 28.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.5% 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 114 28.4% 23.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 44 11% -26.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 76 19% -1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 28 7% 3.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 41 10.2% -10.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 36 9% -14.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 32 8% -15.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 14 3.5% -26.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 14 3.5% 0.0%
Built in 2020 or later 2 0.5% 0.0%
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.

Independence occupancy rates

Out of the 313 occupied housing units in Independence, 85% are owner-occupied, while 15% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 21.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
313
-8.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
47
Owner occupied
266
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 47 15% -39.7%
Owner occupied 266 85% 0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
21.9%
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.

Independence housing costs

Housing costs in Independence come to a median of $689 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,203.

Median housing costs per month
$689/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 Independence
$1,203/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 Independence

Independence education at a glance

About 42.6% of the population in Independence went to high school, while 21.8% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 11.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 12 2.1% 50.0%
High school diploma 242 42.6% -15.7%
College diploma 124 21.8% -28.7%
Associate degree 52 9.2% -10.3%
Bachelor's degree 66 11.6% -12.0%
Graduate degree 72 12.7% 10.8%
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 Independence

How much people earn in Independence

The average annual household income in Independence was $79,365 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 $73,850, reflecting a +15.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Independence
$79,365/year
-3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Independence
$73,850/year
15.3% year-over-year change

Independence income by age

In Independence, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $109,464. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,250 overall. Overall, 93.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $109,464 12.3%
45 - 64 $66,250 -22.9%
Over 65 $65,833 23.9%
Above poverty level
621
Below poverty level
45
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 621 93.2% -19.4%
Below poverty level 45 6.8% 25.0%

Average renter income in Independence

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Independence, their median household income was $48,125 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$48,125
Rent-to-income ratio
30%
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 Independence

Workforce and job types in Independence

The job market in Independence is powered by 201 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 61.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 38.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 4% run their own businesses, 35.3% are employed by private companies, and 58.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
201
-20.6% year-over-year change
White collar
124
Blue collar
77
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 124 61.7% -16.2%
Blue collar 77 38.3% -26.7%
Employer type
Self employees
4%
Private companies
35.3%
Governmental workers
58.2%
Not for profit companies
2.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 8 4% -42.9%
Private companies 71 35.3% -22.8%
Governmental workers 117 58.2% -14.0%
Not for profit companies 5 2.5% -54.5%
Unemployment rate
6.5%
-39.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Independence stands at 6.5%, 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 Independence

How people get around in Independence

Commuting methods vary: 71.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 10.4% 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 137 71.4% -27.1%
Walk 20 10.4% 5.3%
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 Independence by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
93526 825 337 $72,950 $77,579

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FAQs about Independence demographics 

What is the total population of Independence?

Independence has a total population of 730 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 -16.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Independence?

The gender ratio in Independence is as follows:
  • 53% males (387 residents)
  • 47% females (343 residents)

What is the median age in Independence?

The median age in Independence is 54.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Independence?

The age distribution in Independence is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18% (131 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.7% (71 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 17.5% (128 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.7% (166 residents)
  • Over 65: 32% (234 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Independence?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Independence is as follows:
  • White: 66.2% (483 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.2% (45 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 5.9% (43 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.6% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 18.2% (133 residents)
  • Other: 3% (22 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.3% of the population in Independence.

How many housing units are there in Independence?

There are 401 housing units in Independence, reflecting a -3.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Independence has a total of 313 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Independence?

Independence has a median household income of $73,850, representing a +15.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.5% in Independence, with a workforce of 201 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 61.7% (124 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 38.3% (77 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 4% (8 residents)
  • Private companies: 35.3% (71 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 58.2% (117 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 2.5% (5 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