Laguna Woods, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
17,289
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,269/yr
-1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,336
-1.2% year-over-year change

Laguna Woods population

How many people live in Laguna Woods

Laguna Woods is home to 17,289 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 40.7% of Laguna Woods locals are male, and 59.3% are female.

Total population
17,289
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
40.7%
7,043
Female
59.3%
10,246
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,043 40.7% 1.0%
Female 10,246 59.3% -1.2%
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

Adults between 25 and 44 make up 1.6% of the population, while another 14.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 83.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
74.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
0.4%
15 to 24
0%
25 to 44
1.6%
45 to 64
14.8%
Over 65
83.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 73 0.4% 1.4%
25 to 44 276 1.6% -16.4%
45 to 64 2,567 14.8% 0.8%
Over 65 14,373 83.1% -0.1%
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 Laguna Woods, 66.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 31% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 68.5% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 22.9% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
66.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
31%
Non-citizens
2.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,548 66.8% -1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,363 31% 2.8%
Non-citizens 378 2.2% 8.9%
Racial breakdown
White
68.5%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
22.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
4.1%
Other
2.7%
Value Percent
White 11,839 68.5%
Black or African American 106 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 168 1%
Asian 3,963 22.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 32 0.2%
Two or more races 708 4.1%
Other 473 2.7%

Households in Laguna Woods

A peek inside Laguna Woods households

Laguna Woods has 11,706 households, with an average of 1 members in each. Of these, 37.2% are families, while the remaining 62.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,706
-0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
1
Non-family households
7,354
Family households
4,352
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,354 62.8% -3.1%
Family households 4,352 37.2% 3.5%
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 Laguna Woods

The housing landscape of Laguna Woods

Laguna Woods's housing consists of 13,336 units, with 7.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 22.2% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,336
-1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 951 7.1%
1 unit, attached 2,960 22.2%
2 units 83 0.6%
3 or 4 units 2,578 19.3%
5 to 9 units 3,713 27.8%
10 to 19 units 697 5.2%
20 to 49 units 1,323 9.9%
50 or more units 1,009 7.6%
Mobile home 22 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Laguna Woods

In Laguna Woods, the median construction year is 1969. About 0.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 38 0.3% -17.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 117 0.9% -15.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 730 5.5% -15.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,587 49.4% 1.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,496 33.7% -4.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 692 5.2% 10.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 449 3.4% -1.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 184 1.4% 40.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 43 0.3% -2.3%
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.

Laguna Woods occupancy rates

Out of the 11,706 occupied housing units in Laguna Woods, 71.6% are owner-occupied, while 28.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,706
-0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,319
Owner occupied
8,387
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,319 28.4% -1.6%
Owner occupied 8,387 71.6% -0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
12.2%
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.

Laguna Woods housing costs

Housing costs in Laguna Woods come to a median of $1,472 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,328.

Median housing costs per month
$1,472/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 Laguna Woods
$2,328/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 Laguna Woods

Laguna Woods education at a glance

About 18.1% of the population in Laguna Woods went to high school, while 21.4% pursued college studies. Another 7.1% earned an associate degree and 28.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 22.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 429 2.5% 149.4%
High school diploma 3,112 18.1% -0.3%
College diploma 3,685 21.4% -0.6%
Associate degree 1,219 7.1% -7.7%
Bachelor's degree 4,913 28.5% -1.8%
Graduate degree 3,858 22.4% -2.2%
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 Laguna Woods

How much people earn in Laguna Woods

The average annual household income in Laguna Woods was $78,186 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,269, reflecting a -1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Laguna Woods
$78,186/year
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Laguna Woods
$59,269/year
-1.6% year-over-year change

Laguna Woods income by age

Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $49,042 overall. Overall, 85.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
45 - 64 $49,042 -15.7%
Over 65 $60,636 -0.4%
Above poverty level
14,789
Below poverty level
2,439
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,789 85.8% -3.6%
Below poverty level 2,439 14.2% 24.8%

Average renter income in Laguna Woods

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Laguna Woods, their median household income was $44,052 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 63.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$44,052
Rent-to-income ratio
63.4%
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 Laguna Woods

Workforce and job types in Laguna Woods

The job market in Laguna Woods is powered by 3,432 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 89.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 10.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19.8% run their own businesses, 64.4% are employed by private companies, and 7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,432
-7.0% year-over-year change
White collar
3,074
Blue collar
358
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,074 89.6% -5.2%
Blue collar 358 10.4% -20.1%
Employer type
Self employees
19.8%
Private companies
64.4%
Governmental workers
7%
Not for profit companies
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 679 19.8% -4.2%
Private companies 2,210 64.4% -11.9%
Governmental workers 240 7% 14.3%
Not for profit companies 303 8.8% 16.5%
Unemployment rate
7.3%
-3.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Laguna Woods stands at 7.3%, 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 Laguna Woods

How people get around in Laguna Woods

Commuting methods vary: 72.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.9% 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 2,436 72.4% -14.5%
Walk 130 3.9% -6.5%
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 Laguna Woods by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
92637 17,289 11,706 $59,269 $78,186

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FAQs about Laguna Woods demographics 

What is the total population of Laguna Woods?

Laguna Woods has a total population of 17,289 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Laguna Woods?

The gender ratio in Laguna Woods is as follows:
  • 40.7% males (7,043 residents)
  • 59.3% females (10,246 residents)

What is the median age in Laguna Woods?

The median age in Laguna Woods is 74.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Laguna Woods?

The age distribution in Laguna Woods is as follows:
  • Under 15: 0.4% (73 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 0% (0 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 1.6% (276 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 14.8% (2,567 residents)
  • Over 65: 83.1% (14,373 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Laguna Woods?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Laguna Woods is as follows:
  • White: 68.5% (11,839 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (106 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (168 residents)
  • Asian: 22.9% (3,963 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (32 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.1% (708 residents)
  • Other: 2.7% (473 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 66.8% of the population in Laguna Woods.

How many housing units are there in Laguna Woods?

There are 13,336 housing units in Laguna Woods, 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 Laguna Woods and what is the average household size?

Laguna Woods has a total of 11,706 households, with an average of 1 people in each.

What is the median household income in Laguna Woods?

Laguna Woods has a median household income of $59,269, representing a -1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Laguna Woods?

The employment rate is 92.7% in Laguna Woods, with a workforce of 3,432 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89.6% (3,074 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 10.4% (358 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19.8% (679 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.4% (2,210 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 7% (240 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.8% (303 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