Central L.A., Los Angeles, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
832,614
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,064/yr
3.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
434,667
1.9% year-over-year change

Central L.A. population

How many people live in Central L.A.

Central L.A. is home to 832,614 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.6% of Central L.A. locals are male, and 48.4% are female.

Total population
832,614
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.6%
429,868
Female
48.4%
402,746
Value Percent YoY change
Male 429,868 51.6% 0.8%
Female 402,746 48.4% 0.7%
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 Central L.A. is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.3% are children under 15, then 10.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 41.2% of the population, while another 23.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.3%
15 to 24
10.3%
25 to 44
41.2%
45 to 64
23.6%
Over 65
13.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 94,415 11.3% -3.0%
15 to 24 85,728 10.3% 1.5%
25 to 44 343,101 41.2% 1.7%
45 to 64 196,352 23.6% -0.3%
Over 65 113,018 13.6% 2.7%
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 Central L.A., 59.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 19.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 20.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 33.9% of locals are Caucasian, 8.1% are African American and 18.8% have Asian roots. Another 1.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 23.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 14.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
59.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
19.4%
Non-citizens
20.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 497,616 59.8% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 161,277 19.4% 1.3%
Non-citizens 173,721 20.9% 0.2%
Racial breakdown
White
33.9%
Black or African American
8.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.5%
Asian
18.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
14.1%
Other
23.5%
Value Percent
White 282,011 33.9%
Black or African American 67,414 8.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 12,561 1.5%
Asian 156,595 18.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,065 0.1%
Two or more races 117,344 14.1%
Other 195,624 23.5%

Households in Central L.A.

A peek inside Central L.A. households

Central L.A. has 389,624 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 40.1% are families, while the remaining 59.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
389,624
2.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
233,385
Family households
156,239
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 233,385 59.9% 4.0%
Family households 156,239 40.1% 0.4%
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 Central L.A.

The housing landscape of Central L.A.

Central L.A.'s housing consists of 434,667 units, with 14.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.2% 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
434,667
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 64,727 14.9%
1 unit, attached 14,101 3.2%
2 units 16,028 3.7%
3 or 4 units 30,066 6.9%
5 to 9 units 47,047 10.8%
10 to 19 units 56,392 13%
20 to 49 units 83,521 19.2%
50 or more units 121,576 28%
Mobile home 1,029 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 180 0%
Homes built since 2020
8,189
83.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Central L.A.

In Central L.A., the median construction year is 1961. About 30.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 130,691 30.1% 0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 31,086 7.2% -3.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 41,855 9.6% 1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 46,559 10.7% -1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 48,772 11.2% -0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 40,094 9.2% 1.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 21,918 5% 1.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 24,713 5.7% 5.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 40,789 9.4% 7.8%
Built in 2020 or later 8,189 1.9% 83.2%
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.

Central L.A. occupancy rates

Out of the 389,624 occupied housing units in Central L.A., 16.8% are owner-occupied, while 83.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
389,624
2.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
324,305
Owner occupied
65,319
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 324,305 83.2% 3.2%
Owner occupied 65,319 16.8% -0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
10.4%
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.

Central L.A. housing costs

Housing costs in Central L.A. come to a median of $1,930 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,865.

Median housing costs per month
$1,930/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 Central L.A.
$1,865/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 Central L.A.

Central L.A. education at a glance

About 23% of the population in Central L.A. went to high school, while 16% pursued college studies. Another 5.4% earned an associate degree and 30.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 75,628 10.5% 0.7%
High school diploma 165,293 23% -0.7%
College diploma 114,965 16% 0.2%
Associate degree 39,057 5.4% 2.2%
Bachelor's degree 220,534 30.7% 2.3%
Graduate degree 102,339 14.3% 2.7%
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 Central L.A.

How much people earn in Central L.A.

The average annual household income in Central L.A. was $126,715 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,064, reflecting a +3.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Central L.A.
$126,715/year
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Central L.A.
$68,064/year
3.7% year-over-year change

Central L.A. income by age

In Central L.A., households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $85,994. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,024 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,389, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,418 in earnings. Overall, 80.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,389 -2.9%
25 - 44 $85,994 -0.9%
45 - 64 $75,024 5.7%
Over 65 $43,418 5.2%
Above poverty level
655,386
Below poverty level
155,994
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 655,386 80.8% 1.1%
Below poverty level 155,994 19.2% 0.2%

Employment in Central L.A.

Workforce and job types in Central L.A.

86.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 18.2% run their own businesses, 65.6% are employed by private companies, and 7.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
404,753
Blue collar
62,491
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 404,753 86.6% 1.0%
Blue collar 62,491 13.4% -0.3%
Employer type
Self employees
18.2%
Private companies
65.6%
Governmental workers
7.6%
Not for profit companies
8.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 84,989 18.2% -0.2%
Private companies 306,638 65.6% 0.5%
Governmental workers 35,505 7.6% 2.1%
Not for profit companies 40,112 8.6% 4.7%

Transportation in Central L.A.

How people get around in Central L.A.

In Central L.A., the average commute time is 230 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 77.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
230 min
-35.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 259,644 77.4% -2.4%
Taxicab 2,600 0.8% -4.4%
Bus or trolleybus 44,380 13.2% -5.1%
Railroad 677 0.2% 48.5%
Ferryboat 45 0% -42.3%
Motorcycle 1,500 0.4% 14.1%
Bicycle 3,363 1% -9.6%
Walk 23,150 6.9% 3.4%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Central L.A. by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
90004 58,484 24,208 $64,826 $109,747
90005 39,142 18,289 $49,419 $83,299
90006 55,527 19,709 $51,998 $69,243
90010 4,850 2,696 $101,455 $132,434
90012 37,336 15,624 $66,860 $100,896
90013 14,357 8,458 $36,948 $88,943
90014 10,224 7,004 $31,000 $73,011
90015 24,704 13,366 $69,268 $106,533
90016 46,457 18,091 $73,516 $110,023
90017 30,172 14,606 $52,717 $72,581

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FAQs about Central L.A. demographics 

What is the total population of Central L.A.?

Central L.A. has a total population of 832,614 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Central L.A.?

The gender ratio in Central L.A. is as follows:
  • 51.6% males (429,868 residents)
  • 48.4% females (402,746 residents)

What is the median age in Central L.A.?

The median age in Central L.A. is 36.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Central L.A.?

The age distribution in Central L.A. is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.3% (94,415 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.3% (85,728 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 41.2% (343,101 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.6% (196,352 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.6% (113,018 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Central L.A.?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Central L.A. is as follows:
  • White: 33.9% (282,011 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.1% (67,414 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.5% (12,561 residents)
  • Asian: 18.8% (156,595 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (1,065 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.1% (117,344 residents)
  • Other: 23.5% (195,624 residents)

What percentage of the population in Central L.A. are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 59.8% of the population in Central L.A..

How many housing units are there in Central L.A.?

There are 434,667 housing units in Central L.A., reflecting a +1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Central L.A. and what is the average household size?

Central L.A. has a total of 389,624 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Central L.A.?

Central L.A. has a median household income of $68,064, representing a +3.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Central L.A.?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.6% (404,753 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.4% (62,491 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 18.2% (84,989 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.6% (306,638 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 7.6% (35,505 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.6% (40,112 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