Isla Vista, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
13,920
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$25,972/yr
6.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,323
3.0% year-over-year change

Isla Vista population

How many people live in Isla Vista

Isla Vista is home to 13,920 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.5% of Isla Vista locals are male, and 53.5% are female.

Total population
13,920
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.5%
6,468
Female
53.5%
7,452
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,468 46.5% 7.2%
Female 7,452 53.5% -3.0%
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 Isla Vista is 21, with the population distributed as follows: about 1.1% are children under 15, then 87% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 7.2% of the population, while another 2.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 2.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
21.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
1.1%
15 to 24
87%
25 to 44
7.2%
45 to 64
2.4%
Over 65
2.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 149 1.1% -24.4%
15 to 24 12,108 87% 2.5%
25 to 44 1,006 7.2% -1.9%
45 to 64 331 2.4% -6.8%
Over 65 326 2.3% 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 Isla Vista, 88.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 59.1% of locals are Caucasian, 4.7% are African American and 16.4% have Asian roots. Another 1.7% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.7%
Non-citizens
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,335 88.6% 3.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 510 3.7% 9.2%
Non-citizens 1,075 7.7% -18.5%
Racial breakdown
White
59.1%
Black or African American
4.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.7%
Asian
16.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
10.4%
Other
7.3%
Value Percent
White 8,224 59.1%
Black or African American 656 4.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 242 1.7%
Asian 2,283 16.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 47 0.3%
Two or more races 1,447 10.4%
Other 1,021 7.3%

Households in Isla Vista

A peek inside Isla Vista households

Isla Vista has 4,763 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 10.3% are families, while the remaining 89.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,763
3.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,274
Family households
489
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,274 89.7% 2.8%
Family households 489 10.3% 13.7%
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 Isla Vista

The housing landscape of Isla Vista

Isla Vista's housing consists of 5,323 units, with 6.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
5,323
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 335 6.3%
1 unit, attached 243 4.6%
2 units 502 9.4%
3 or 4 units 425 8%
5 to 9 units 989 18.6%
10 to 19 units 970 18.2%
20 to 49 units 872 16.4%
50 or more units 987 18.5%
Homes built since 2020
17
112.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Isla Vista

In Isla Vista, the median construction year is 1975. About 1.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 73 1.4% N/A
Built between 1940 and 1949 93 1.8% -13.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 520 9.8% 32.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,425 26.8% 5.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,111 20.9% -16.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 739 13.9% 10.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 650 12.2% -7.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 291 5.5% 19.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 404 7.6% 11.0%
Built in 2020 or later 17 0.3% 112.5%
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.

Isla Vista occupancy rates

Out of the 4,763 occupied housing units in Isla Vista, 1.2% are owner-occupied, while 98.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,763
3.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,705
Owner occupied
58
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,705 98.8% 3.5%
Owner occupied 58 1.2% 28.9%
Unoccupied housing units
10.5%
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.

Isla Vista housing costs

Housing costs in Isla Vista come to a median of $1,900 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,878.

Median housing costs per month
$1,900/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 Isla Vista
$1,878/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 Isla Vista

Isla Vista education at a glance

About 22.4% of the population in Isla Vista went to high school, while 59.1% pursued college studies. Another 6% earned an associate degree and 9.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 53 0.4% -22.1%
High school diploma 3,055 22.4% 7.4%
College diploma 8,075 59.1% -1.0%
Associate degree 822 6% 22.1%
Bachelor's degree 1,271 9.3% 5.6%
Graduate degree 390 2.8% 4.3%
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 Isla Vista

How much people earn in Isla Vista

The average annual household income in Isla Vista was $39,145 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $25,972, reflecting a +6.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Isla Vista
$39,145/year
6.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Isla Vista
$25,972/year
6.3% year-over-year change

Isla Vista income by age

In Isla Vista, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,708. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $42,500 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $21,126, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $32,097 in earnings. Overall, 29.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $21,126 10.4%
25 - 44 $72,708 16.3%
45 - 64 $42,500 -13.8%
Over 65 $32,097 4.5%
Above poverty level
3,556
Below poverty level
8,444
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,556 29.6% -3.2%
Below poverty level 8,444 70.4% 1.6%

Average renter income in Isla Vista

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Isla Vista, their median household income was $22,966 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 98.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$22,966
Rent-to-income ratio
98.1%
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 Isla Vista

Workforce and job types in Isla Vista

The job market in Isla Vista is powered by 6,728 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 85.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.4% run their own businesses, 63.9% are employed by private companies, and 22.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,728
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
5,776
Blue collar
952
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,776 85.8% 1.2%
Blue collar 952 14.2% 3.7%
Employer type
Self employees
5.4%
Private companies
63.9%
Governmental workers
22.7%
Not for profit companies
8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 362 5.4% 46.0%
Private companies 4,300 63.9% 2.7%
Governmental workers 1,526 22.7% -6.8%
Not for profit companies 540 8% -2.0%
Unemployment rate
17.4%
3.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Isla Vista stands at 17.4%, 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 Isla Vista

How people get around in Isla Vista

In Isla Vista, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 53.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 19.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
16 min
-1.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,417 53.2% -2.8%
Taxicab 17 0.3% -10.5%
Bus or trolleybus 181 2.8% -17.7%
Motorcycle 23 0.4% -54.0%
Bicycle 823 12.8% -1.0%
Walk 1,244 19.4% 13.4%
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.

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FAQs about Isla Vista demographics 

What is the total population of Isla Vista?

Isla Vista has a total population of 13,920 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Isla Vista?

The gender ratio in Isla Vista is as follows:
  • 46.5% males (6,468 residents)
  • 53.5% females (7,452 residents)

What is the median age in Isla Vista?

The median age in Isla Vista is 21.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Isla Vista?

The age distribution in Isla Vista is as follows:
  • Under 15: 1.1% (149 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 87% (12,108 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 7.2% (1,006 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 2.4% (331 residents)
  • Over 65: 2.3% (326 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Isla Vista?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Isla Vista is as follows:
  • White: 59.1% (8,224 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.7% (656 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.7% (242 residents)
  • Asian: 16.4% (2,283 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (47 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.4% (1,447 residents)
  • Other: 7.3% (1,021 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.6% of the population in Isla Vista.

How many housing units are there in Isla Vista?

There are 5,323 housing units in Isla Vista, reflecting a +3.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Isla Vista has a total of 4,763 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Isla Vista?

Isla Vista has a median household income of $25,972, representing a +6.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Isla Vista?

The employment rate is 82.6% in Isla Vista, with a workforce of 6,728 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.8% (5,776 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.2% (952 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.4% (362 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.9% (4,300 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.7% (1,526 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8% (540 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