Joshua Tree, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,234
-7.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,291/yr
3.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,977
0.4% year-over-year change

Joshua Tree population

How many people live in Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree is home to 6,234 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.6% of Joshua Tree locals are male, and 52.4% are female.

Total population
6,234
-7.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.6%
2,968
Female
52.4%
3,266
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,968 47.6% -7.2%
Female 3,266 52.4% -8.4%
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 Joshua Tree is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.5% are children under 15, then 14.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.2% of the population, while another 25.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.5%
15 to 24
14.1%
25 to 44
27.2%
45 to 64
25.4%
Over 65
19.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 844 13.5% -15.3%
15 to 24 878 14.1% -8.3%
25 to 44 1,696 27.2% -2.8%
45 to 64 1,581 25.4% -12.8%
Over 65 1,235 19.8% -1.6%
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 Joshua Tree, 87.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 66.8% of locals are Caucasian, 2.2% are African American and 2.8% have Asian roots. Another 1.7% are Indigenous American, 0.5% are Pacific Islanders, while 6.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 19.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.7%
Non-citizens
4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,443 87.3% -9.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 541 8.7% 0.0%
Non-citizens 250 4% 19.6%
Racial breakdown
White
66.8%
Black or African American
2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.7%
Asian
2.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.5%
Two or more races
19.5%
Other
6.5%
Value Percent
White 4,167 66.8%
Black or African American 135 2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 104 1.7%
Asian 175 2.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 33 0.5%
Two or more races 1,217 19.5%
Other 403 6.5%

Households in Joshua Tree

A peek inside Joshua Tree households

Joshua Tree has 2,553 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 49.8% are families, while the remaining 50.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,553
-6.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,283
Family households
1,270
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,283 50.2% 3.1%
Family households 1,270 49.8% -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 Joshua Tree

The housing landscape of Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree's housing consists of 3,977 units, with 81.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% 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 5.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,977
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,224 81.1%
1 unit, attached 35 0.9%
2 units 173 4.4%
3 or 4 units 164 4.1%
5 to 9 units 61 1.5%
10 to 19 units 16 0.4%
20 to 49 units 18 0.4%
50 or more units 19 0.5%
Mobile home 226 5.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 41 1%
Homes built since 2020
50
4.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Joshua Tree

In Joshua Tree, the median construction year is 1980. About 0.8% 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, 15.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 33 0.8% 13.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 179 4.5% -3.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 583 14.7% -4.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 507 12.8% 17.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 651 16.4% -4.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,149 28.9% -11.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 157 4% -19.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 603 15.2% 32.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 65 1.6% 132.1%
Built in 2020 or later 50 1.3% 4.2%
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.

Joshua Tree occupancy rates

Out of the 2,553 occupied housing units in Joshua Tree, 65.5% are owner-occupied, while 34.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 35.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,553
-6.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
880
Owner occupied
1,673
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 880 34.5% 0.3%
Owner occupied 1,673 65.5% -9.0%
Unoccupied housing units
35.8%
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.

Joshua Tree housing costs

Housing costs in Joshua Tree come to a median of $1,103 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,246.

Median housing costs per month
$1,103/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 Joshua Tree
$1,246/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 Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree education at a glance

About 30.2% of the population in Joshua Tree went to high school, while 34.5% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 17.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 60 1.2% 20.0%
High school diploma 1,527 30.2% 0.9%
College diploma 1,746 34.5% -16.9%
Associate degree 426 8.4% -12.3%
Bachelor's degree 877 17.3% 6.8%
Graduate degree 423 8.4% -6.0%
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 Joshua Tree

How much people earn in Joshua Tree

The average annual household income in Joshua Tree was $80,927 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,291, reflecting a +3.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Joshua Tree
$80,927/year
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Joshua Tree
$66,291/year
3.5% year-over-year change

Joshua Tree income by age

In Joshua Tree, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $84,872. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,336 overall. Overall, 77.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $84,872 5.4%
45 - 64 $67,336 -10.2%
Over 65 $28,669 5.6%
Above poverty level
4,586
Below poverty level
1,345
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,586 77.3% -8.8%
Below poverty level 1,345 22.7% -8.3%

Average renter income in Joshua Tree

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Joshua Tree, their median household income was $26,569 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 56.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$26,569
Rent-to-income ratio
56.3%
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 Joshua Tree

Workforce and job types in Joshua Tree

The job market in Joshua Tree is powered by 2,708 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19.4% run their own businesses, 58.2% are employed by private companies, and 18.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,708
-6.3% year-over-year change
White collar
2,191
Blue collar
517
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,191 80.9% -8.1%
Blue collar 517 19.1% 2.2%
Employer type
Self employees
19.4%
Private companies
58.2%
Governmental workers
18.2%
Not for profit companies
4.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 526 19.4% -11.0%
Private companies 1,575 58.2% 2.3%
Governmental workers 494 18.2% -25.6%
Not for profit companies 113 4.2% 18.9%
Unemployment rate
5.6%
-26.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Joshua Tree stands at 5.6%, 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 Joshua Tree

How people get around in Joshua Tree

Commuting methods vary: 67.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% 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 1,828 67.8% -9.3%
Walk 85 3.2% 123.7%
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 Joshua Tree by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
92252 7,538 3,240 $66,598 $88,017

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FAQs about Joshua Tree demographics 

What is the total population of Joshua Tree?

Joshua Tree has a total population of 6,234 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 -7.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Joshua Tree?

The gender ratio in Joshua Tree is as follows:
  • 47.6% males (2,968 residents)
  • 52.4% females (3,266 residents)

What is the median age in Joshua Tree?

The median age in Joshua Tree is 41.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Joshua Tree?

The age distribution in Joshua Tree is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.5% (844 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.1% (878 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.2% (1,696 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.4% (1,581 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.8% (1,235 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Joshua Tree?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Joshua Tree is as follows:
  • White: 66.8% (4,167 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.2% (135 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.7% (104 residents)
  • Asian: 2.8% (175 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.5% (33 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.5% (1,217 residents)
  • Other: 6.5% (403 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 87.3% of the population in Joshua Tree.

How many housing units are there in Joshua Tree?

There are 3,977 housing units in Joshua Tree, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Joshua Tree has a total of 2,553 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Joshua Tree?

Joshua Tree has a median household income of $66,291, representing a +3.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Joshua Tree?

The employment rate is 94.4% in Joshua Tree, with a workforce of 2,708 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.9% (2,191 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.1% (517 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19.4% (526 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.2% (1,575 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.2% (494 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.2% (113 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