Los Altos, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
30,698
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$250,001/yr
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,781
1.4% year-over-year change

Los Altos population

How many people live in Los Altos

Los Altos is home to 30,698 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.7% of Los Altos locals are male, and 49.3% are female.

Total population
30,698
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.7%
15,564
Female
49.3%
15,134
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,564 50.7% 1.3%
Female 15,134 49.3% -1.5%
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 Los Altos is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.2% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 17.7% of the population, while another 30.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.2%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
17.7%
45 to 64
30.6%
Over 65
20.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,909 19.2% -0.1%
15 to 24 3,605 11.7% 0.4%
25 to 44 5,430 17.7% 0.1%
45 to 64 9,377 30.6% -0.3%
Over 65 6,377 20.8% -0.3%
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 Los Altos, 63.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 24.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 50.3% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 39% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
63.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
24.9%
Non-citizens
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,484 63.5% -1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 7,657 24.9% 0.2%
Non-citizens 3,557 11.6% 5.5%
Racial breakdown
White
50.3%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
39%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.2%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 15,432 50.3%
Black or African American 59 0.2%
Asian 11,970 39%
Two or more races 2,515 8.2%
Other 722 2.4%

Households in Los Altos

A peek inside Los Altos households

Los Altos has 10,840 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 82.1% are families, while the remaining 17.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
10,840
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,937
Family households
8,903
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,937 17.9% -7.4%
Family households 8,903 82.1% 2.8%
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 Los Altos

The housing landscape of Los Altos

Los Altos's housing consists of 11,781 units, with 82.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.8% 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
11,781
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,672 82.1%
1 unit, attached 560 4.8%
2 units 35 0.3%
3 or 4 units 159 1.4%
5 to 9 units 128 1.1%
10 to 19 units 296 2.5%
20 to 49 units 425 3.6%
50 or more units 483 4.1%
Mobile home 23 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
286
84.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Los Altos

In Los Altos, the median construction year is 1964. About 3.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 407 3.4% 21.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 707 6% 16.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,900 33.1% -2.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,267 19.2% -2.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,313 11.2% -1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 553 4.7% 8.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 542 4.6% -10.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 756 6.4% 10.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,050 8.9% 1.2%
Built in 2020 or later 286 2.4% 84.5%
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.

Los Altos occupancy rates

Out of the 10,840 occupied housing units in Los Altos, 81.7% are owner-occupied, while 18.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
10,840
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,988
Owner occupied
8,852
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,988 18.3% -3.5%
Owner occupied 8,852 81.7% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
8.0%
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.

Los Altos housing costs

Housing costs in Los Altos come to a median of $4,001 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $3,501.

Median housing costs per month
$4,001/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 Los Altos
$3,501/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 Los Altos

Los Altos education at a glance

About 6% of the population in Los Altos went to high school, while 8.2% pursued college studies. Another 2.5% earned an associate degree and 32.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 50.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 45 0.2% -33.8%
High school diploma 1,391 6% 9.4%
College diploma 1,907 8.2% -12.8%
Associate degree 591 2.5% -2.8%
Bachelor's degree 7,493 32.2% 0.3%
Graduate degree 11,847 50.9% 1.5%
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 Los Altos

How much people earn in Los Altos

The average annual household income in Los Altos was $417,182 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.4% change from the previous year.

Average household income in Los Altos
$417,182/year
3.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Los Altos
$250,001/year
0.0% year-over-year change

Los Altos income by age

In Los Altos, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $250,001. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $250,001 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $113,194, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $144,952 in earnings. Overall, 96.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $113,194 2.0%
25 - 44 $250,001 0.0%
45 - 64 $250,001 0.0%
Over 65 $144,952 -0.2%
Above poverty level
29,422
Below poverty level
974
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 29,422 96.8% 0.1%
Below poverty level 974 3.2% 2.6%

Average renter income in Los Altos

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Los Altos, their median household income was $225,227 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 18.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$225,227
Rent-to-income ratio
18.7%
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 Los Altos

Workforce and job types in Los Altos

The job market in Los Altos is powered by 13,376 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 97.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 2.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.7% run their own businesses, 70% are employed by private companies, and 7.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,376
-0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
13,070
Blue collar
306
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,070 97.7% -0.1%
Blue collar 306 2.3% -23.7%
Employer type
Self employees
11.7%
Private companies
70%
Governmental workers
7.6%
Not for profit companies
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,565 11.7% -12.2%
Private companies 9,363 70% 0.6%
Governmental workers 1,013 7.6% -12.4%
Not for profit companies 1,435 10.7% 15.5%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
7.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Los Altos stands at 4.8%, 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 Los Altos

How people get around in Los Altos

Commuting methods vary: 54.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% 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 7,249 54.8% -6.9%
Bus or trolleybus 19 0.1% -17.4%
Railroad 48 0.4% -57.1%
Motorcycle 26 0.2% -29.7%
Bicycle 299 2.3% -4.2%
Walk 246 1.9% 36.7%
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 Los Altos by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94022 20,027 7,275 $250,001 $413,758
94024 23,051 7,938 $250,001 $428,921

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FAQs about Los Altos demographics 

What is the total population of Los Altos?

Los Altos has a total population of 30,698 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Los Altos?

The gender ratio in Los Altos is as follows:
  • 50.7% males (15,564 residents)
  • 49.3% females (15,134 residents)

What is the median age in Los Altos?

The median age in Los Altos is 45.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Los Altos?

The age distribution in Los Altos is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.2% (5,909 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (3,605 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 17.7% (5,430 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30.6% (9,377 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.8% (6,377 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Los Altos?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Los Altos is as follows:
  • White: 50.3% (15,432 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (59 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 39% (11,970 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.2% (2,515 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (722 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 63.5% of the population in Los Altos.

How many housing units are there in Los Altos?

There are 11,781 housing units in Los Altos, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Los Altos has a total of 10,840 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Los Altos?

Los Altos has a median household income of $250,001, representing a 0.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Los Altos?

The employment rate is 95.2% in Los Altos, with a workforce of 13,376 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 97.7% (13,070 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 2.3% (306 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.7% (1,565 residents)
  • Private companies: 70% (9,363 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 7.6% (1,013 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.7% (1,435 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