Lake San Marcos, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,693
-6.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$89,851/yr
-10.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,117
-7.3% year-over-year change

Lake San Marcos population

How many people live in Lake San Marcos

Lake San Marcos is home to 4,693 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.7% of Lake San Marcos locals are male, and 54.3% are female.

Total population
4,693
-6.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.7%
2,146
Female
54.3%
2,547
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,146 45.7% -7.9%
Female 2,547 54.3% -4.4%
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 Lake San Marcos is 63, with the population distributed as follows: about 6.5% are children under 15, then 7.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 15.1% of the population, while another 24.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 46.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
63
Age breakdown
Under 15
6.5%
15 to 24
7.4%
25 to 44
15.1%
45 to 64
24.3%
Over 65
46.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 305 6.5% -23.8%
15 to 24 347 7.4% -7.5%
25 to 44 709 15.1% -17.1%
45 to 64 1,140 24.3% -14.7%
Over 65 2,192 46.7% 8.0%
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 Lake San Marcos, 77.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 14.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 67.4% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 5.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
77.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
14.6%
Non-citizens
7.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,652 77.8% -8.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 686 14.6% 2.9%
Non-citizens 355 7.6% 0.8%
Racial breakdown
White
67.4%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
5.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.8%
Other
18.2%
Value Percent
White 3,161 67.4%
Black or African American 21 0.4%
Asian 242 5.2%
Two or more races 415 8.8%
Other 854 18.2%

Households in Lake San Marcos

A peek inside Lake San Marcos households

Lake San Marcos has 2,000 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.2% are families, while the remaining 35.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,000
-6.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
717
Family households
1,283
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 717 35.8% -17.7%
Family households 1,283 64.2% 0.5%
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 Lake San Marcos

The housing landscape of Lake San Marcos

Lake San Marcos's housing consists of 2,117 units, with 59.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 20.7% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
2,117
-7.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,264 59.7%
1 unit, attached 439 20.7%
2 units 84 4%
3 or 4 units 32 1.5%
5 to 9 units 86 4.1%
10 to 19 units 60 2.8%
20 to 49 units 76 3.6%
50 or more units 76 3.6%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lake San Marcos

In Lake San Marcos, the median construction year is 1979. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built between 1950 and 1959 108 5.1% 22.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 457 21.6% -22.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 578 27.3% 10.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 453 21.4% -13.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 263 12.4% -10.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 163 7.7% 15.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 95 4.5% -24.0%
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.

Lake San Marcos occupancy rates

Out of the 2,000 occupied housing units in Lake San Marcos, 79% are owner-occupied, while 21% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,000
-6.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
419
Owner occupied
1,581
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 419 21% -9.7%
Owner occupied 1,581 79% -6.1%
Unoccupied housing units
5.5%
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.

Lake San Marcos housing costs

Housing costs in Lake San Marcos come to a median of $2,270 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,585.

Median housing costs per month
$2,270/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 Lake San Marcos
$2,585/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 Lake San Marcos

Lake San Marcos education at a glance

About 19.4% of the population in Lake San Marcos went to high school, while 27.1% pursued college studies. Another 10% earned an associate degree and 20.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 402 9.3% 25.6%
High school diploma 836 19.4% -6.7%
College diploma 1,167 27.1% -1.9%
Associate degree 431 10% -14.8%
Bachelor's degree 892 20.7% -9.7%
Graduate degree 576 13.4% 6.9%
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 Lake San Marcos

How much people earn in Lake San Marcos

The average annual household income in Lake San Marcos was $120,348 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -5.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $89,851, reflecting a -10.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lake San Marcos
$120,348/year
-5.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lake San Marcos
$89,851/year
-10.8% year-over-year change

Lake San Marcos income by age

In Lake San Marcos, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $139,500. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,203 overall. Overall, 94% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $139,500 -20.9%
45 - 64 $89,203 -22.4%
Over 65 $76,789 -9.9%
Above poverty level
4,229
Below poverty level
271
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,229 94% -6.8%
Below poverty level 271 6% -12.6%

Average renter income in Lake San Marcos

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Lake San Marcos, their median household income was $97,148 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$97,148
Rent-to-income ratio
31.9%
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 Lake San Marcos

Workforce and job types in Lake San Marcos

The job market in Lake San Marcos is powered by 1,916 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 18.8% run their own businesses, 63.6% are employed by private companies, and 10.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,916
-14.7% year-over-year change
White collar
1,554
Blue collar
362
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,554 81.1% -14.8%
Blue collar 362 18.9% -14.0%
Employer type
Self employees
18.8%
Private companies
63.6%
Governmental workers
10.5%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 361 18.8% -15.5%
Private companies 1,219 63.6% -13.9%
Governmental workers 201 10.5% -19.6%
Not for profit companies 135 7% -11.2%
Unemployment rate
4.1%
3.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lake San Marcos stands at 4.1%, 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 Lake San Marcos

How people get around in Lake San Marcos

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,387 76% -17.2%
Motorcycle 9 0.5% 0.0%
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 Lake San Marcos demographics 

What is the total population of Lake San Marcos?

Lake San Marcos has a total population of 4,693 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 -6.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lake San Marcos?

The gender ratio in Lake San Marcos is as follows:
  • 45.7% males (2,146 residents)
  • 54.3% females (2,547 residents)

What is the median age in Lake San Marcos?

The median age in Lake San Marcos is 63.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lake San Marcos?

The age distribution in Lake San Marcos is as follows:
  • Under 15: 6.5% (305 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.4% (347 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 15.1% (709 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.3% (1,140 residents)
  • Over 65: 46.7% (2,192 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lake San Marcos?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lake San Marcos is as follows:
  • White: 67.4% (3,161 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (21 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 5.2% (242 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.8% (415 residents)
  • Other: 18.2% (854 residents)

What percentage of the population in Lake San Marcos are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 77.8% of the population in Lake San Marcos.

How many housing units are there in Lake San Marcos?

There are 2,117 housing units in Lake San Marcos, reflecting a -7.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Lake San Marcos and what is the average household size?

Lake San Marcos has a total of 2,000 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lake San Marcos?

Lake San Marcos has a median household income of $89,851, representing a -10.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Lake San Marcos?

The employment rate is 95.9% in Lake San Marcos, with a workforce of 1,916 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.1% (1,554 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.9% (362 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 18.8% (361 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.6% (1,219 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.5% (201 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (135 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