Irvine, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
311,690
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$136,719/yr
5.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
120,206
-0.1% year-over-year change

Irvine population

How many people live in Irvine

Irvine is home to 311,690 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Irvine locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
311,690
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
152,035
Female
51.2%
159,655
Value Percent YoY change
Male 152,035 48.8% 0.3%
Female 159,655 51.2% 2.0%
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 Irvine is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 18% are children under 15, then 16.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.5% of the population, while another 22.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 10.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
34
Age breakdown
Under 15
18%
15 to 24
16.9%
25 to 44
31.5%
45 to 64
22.8%
Over 65
10.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 56,136 18% 0.9%
15 to 24 52,607 16.9% 3.1%
25 to 44 98,203 31.5% 0.5%
45 to 64 71,145 22.8% -0.3%
Over 65 33,599 10.8% 3.7%
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 Irvine, 58% of the population are US-born citizens, while 23.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 18.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 36.6% of locals are Caucasian, 2% are African American and 44.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
58%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
23.5%
Non-citizens
18.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 180,845 58% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 73,329 23.5% 3.2%
Non-citizens 57,516 18.4% 0.8%
Racial breakdown
White
36.6%
Black or African American
2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
44.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
11.8%
Other
4%
Value Percent
White 114,244 36.6%
Black or African American 6,213 2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,064 0.3%
Asian 139,639 44.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,330 0.4%
Two or more races 36,717 11.8%
Other 12,483 4%

Households in Irvine

A peek inside Irvine households

Irvine has 112,091 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65% are families, while the remaining 35% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
112,091
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
39,258
Family households
72,833
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 39,258 35% -1.4%
Family households 72,833 65% 0.9%
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 Irvine

The housing landscape of Irvine

Irvine's housing consists of 120,206 units, with 37.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 19.5% 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 1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
120,206
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 44,904 37.4%
1 unit, attached 23,397 19.5%
2 units 1,477 1.2%
3 or 4 units 4,925 4.1%
5 to 9 units 7,040 5.9%
10 to 19 units 5,416 4.5%
20 to 49 units 5,023 4.2%
50 or more units 26,777 22.3%
Mobile home 1,208 1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 39 0%
Homes built since 2020
4,302
49.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Irvine

In Irvine, the median construction year is 2002. About 0.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 29.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 761 0.6% -9.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 151 0.1% -1.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 842 0.7% -4.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,417 2.8% 0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 19,715 16.4% -2.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 17,947 14.9% 2.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 13,526 11.2% -7.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 24,095 20% -1.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 35,450 29.5% 0.6%
Built in 2020 or later 4,302 3.6% 49.5%
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.

Irvine occupancy rates

Out of the 112,091 occupied housing units in Irvine, 44.4% are owner-occupied, while 55.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
112,091
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
62,261
Owner occupied
49,830
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 62,261 55.6% -1.0%
Owner occupied 49,830 44.4% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
6.8%
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.

Irvine housing costs

Housing costs in Irvine come to a median of $3,010 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,997.

Median housing costs per month
$3,010/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 Irvine
$2,997/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 Irvine

Irvine education at a glance

About 13.2% of the population in Irvine went to high school, while 16.6% pursued college studies. Another 6.5% earned an associate degree and 35.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 26.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,962 1.6% 4.0%
High school diploma 32,291 13.2% 7.7%
College diploma 40,444 16.6% -4.3%
Associate degree 15,920 6.5% 1.0%
Bachelor's degree 86,824 35.6% 1.0%
Graduate degree 64,685 26.5% 1.8%
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 Irvine

How much people earn in Irvine

The average annual household income in Irvine was $175,308 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $136,719, reflecting a +5.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Irvine
$175,308/year
4.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Irvine
$136,719/year
5.5% year-over-year change

Irvine income by age

In Irvine, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $145,757. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $164,837 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $31,400, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $98,664 in earnings. Overall, 89.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $31,400 41.7%
25 - 44 $145,757 3.5%
45 - 64 $164,837 3.9%
Over 65 $98,664 7.9%
Above poverty level
261,685
Below poverty level
31,724
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 261,685 89.2% 1.3%
Below poverty level 31,724 10.8% -6.7%

Average renter income in Irvine

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Irvine, their median household income was $101,057 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$101,057
Rent-to-income ratio
35.6%
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 Irvine

Workforce and job types in Irvine

The job market in Irvine is powered by 159,006 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 94.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 5.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.3% run their own businesses, 69.1% are employed by private companies, and 12.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
159,006
1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
150,075
Blue collar
8,931
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 150,075 94.4% 1.7%
Blue collar 8,931 5.6% 5.8%
Employer type
Self employees
12.3%
Private companies
69.1%
Governmental workers
12.2%
Not for profit companies
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 19,574 12.3% -1.9%
Private companies 109,849 69.1% 2.2%
Governmental workers 19,409 12.2% 0.6%
Not for profit companies 10,174 6.4% 9.4%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
8.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Irvine stands at 5.8%, 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 Irvine

How people get around in Irvine

In Irvine, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 64.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
1.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 100,519 64.7% -1.5%
Taxicab 108 0.1% -7.7%
Bus or trolleybus 1,238 0.8% 54.2%
Subway or elevated 195 0.1% N/A
Railroad 299 0.2% -8.6%
Motorcycle 144 0.1% -27.3%
Bicycle 1,745 1.1% -15.0%
Walk 5,708 3.7% 0.8%
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 Irvine by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
92612 33,714 14,456 $106,226 $130,654
92614 29,239 11,624 $122,821 $155,709
92617 24,017 3,888 $91,529 $148,645
92618 66,126 25,417 $145,731 $185,991
92620 61,631 21,248 $146,942 $192,093
92602 28,261 9,713 $161,620 $195,003
92603 18,387 7,176 $173,094 $231,352
92604 26,491 9,717 $133,869 $164,141
92606 23,990 8,852 $135,598 $159,923

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FAQs about Irvine demographics 

What is the total population of Irvine?

Irvine has a total population of 311,690 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 +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Irvine?

The gender ratio in Irvine is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (152,035 residents)
  • 51.2% females (159,655 residents)

What is the median age in Irvine?

The median age in Irvine is 34.

What is the age distribution of the population in Irvine?

The age distribution in Irvine is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18% (56,136 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.9% (52,607 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.5% (98,203 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.8% (71,145 residents)
  • Over 65: 10.8% (33,599 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Irvine?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Irvine is as follows:
  • White: 36.6% (114,244 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2% (6,213 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (1,064 residents)
  • Asian: 44.8% (139,639 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (1,330 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.8% (36,717 residents)
  • Other: 4% (12,483 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 58% of the population in Irvine.

How many housing units are there in Irvine?

There are 120,206 housing units in Irvine, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Irvine has a total of 112,091 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Irvine?

Irvine has a median household income of $136,719, representing a +5.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.2% in Irvine, with a workforce of 159,006 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 94.4% (150,075 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 5.6% (8,931 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.3% (19,574 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.1% (109,849 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.2% (19,409 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.4% (10,174 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