San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,500,216
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$92,311/yr
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
562,709
0.7% year-over-year change

San Fernando Valley population

How many people live in San Fernando Valley

San Fernando Valley is home to 1,500,216 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of San Fernando Valley locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
1,500,216
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
746,393
Female
50.2%
753,822
Value Percent YoY change
Male 746,393 49.8% 0.1%
Female 753,822 50.2% -0.4%
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 San Fernando Valley is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.5% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.5% of the population, while another 26.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.5%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
30.5%
45 to 64
26.1%
Over 65
15.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 248,196 16.5% -1.3%
15 to 24 175,681 11.7% -1.2%
25 to 44 457,022 30.5% -0.1%
45 to 64 391,150 26.1% -0.8%
Over 65 228,167 15.2% 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 San Fernando Valley, 61.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 23.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 15% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 39.9% of locals are Caucasian, 4.4% are African American and 11.2% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 23% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 20.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
61.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
23.6%
Non-citizens
15%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 921,779 61.4% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 353,334 23.6% 0.2%
Non-citizens 225,103 15% 0.1%
Racial breakdown
White
39.9%
Black or African American
4.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
11.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
20.2%
Other
23%
Value Percent
White 599,099 39.9%
Black or African American 66,832 4.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 14,622 1%
Asian 168,064 11.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,969 0.1%
Two or more races 303,835 20.2%
Other 345,795 23%

Households in San Fernando Valley

A peek inside San Fernando Valley households

San Fernando Valley has 532,574 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.2% are families, while the remaining 34.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
532,574
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
185,346
Family households
347,229
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 185,346 34.8% 1.5%
Family households 347,229 65.2% 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 San Fernando Valley

The housing landscape of San Fernando Valley

San Fernando Valley's housing consists of 562,709 units, with 47.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.4% 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 1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
562,709
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 266,591 47.4%
1 unit, attached 30,622 5.4%
2 units 4,366 0.8%
3 or 4 units 15,124 2.7%
5 to 9 units 32,670 5.8%
10 to 19 units 46,750 8.3%
20 to 49 units 78,452 13.9%
50 or more units 82,207 14.6%
Mobile home 5,444 1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 484 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
5,846
70.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in San Fernando Valley

In San Fernando Valley, the median construction year is 1968. About 4.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.1% 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, 5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 26,474 4.7% 0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 51,213 9.1% 0.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 130,036 23.1% -1.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 90,061 16% -0.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 91,387 16.2% -1.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 73,075 13% 2.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 34,116 6.1% -1.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 32,253 5.7% 2.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 28,249 5% 7.7%
Built in 2020 or later 5,846 1% 70.6%
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.

San Fernando Valley occupancy rates

Out of the 532,574 occupied housing units in San Fernando Valley, 47.1% are owner-occupied, while 52.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
532,574
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
281,724
Owner occupied
250,851
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 281,724 52.9% 1.1%
Owner occupied 250,851 47.1% 0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
5.4%
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.

San Fernando Valley housing costs

Housing costs in San Fernando Valley come to a median of $2,250 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,057.

Median housing costs per month
$2,250/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 San Fernando Valley
$2,057/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 San Fernando Valley

San Fernando Valley education at a glance

About 28.3% of the population in San Fernando Valley went to high school, while 19.6% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 23.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 115,523 9.6% 0.2%
High school diploma 339,344 28.3% 0.8%
College diploma 235,478 19.6% -2.9%
Associate degree 90,005 7.5% -1.4%
Bachelor's degree 282,661 23.6% 0.7%
Graduate degree 135,822 11.3% 3.2%
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 San Fernando Valley

How much people earn in San Fernando Valley

The average annual household income in San Fernando Valley was $132,155 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $92,311, reflecting a +1.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in San Fernando Valley
$132,155/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in San Fernando Valley
$92,311/year
1.7% year-over-year change

San Fernando Valley income by age

In San Fernando Valley, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $97,997. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $101,900 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $55,598, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $72,300 in earnings. Overall, 86.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $55,598 1.5%
25 - 44 $97,997 0.9%
45 - 64 $101,900 3.7%
Over 65 $72,300 7.6%
Above poverty level
1,275,573
Below poverty level
197,358
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,275,573 86.6% -0.2%
Below poverty level 197,358 13.4% 0.4%

Employment in San Fernando Valley

Workforce and job types in San Fernando Valley

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, 17% run their own businesses, 64.8% are employed by private companies, and 10.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
620,107
Blue collar
144,556
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 620,107 81.1% -0.2%
Blue collar 144,556 18.9% -0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
17%
Private companies
64.8%
Governmental workers
10.9%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 130,410 17% 1.0%
Private companies 495,871 64.8% -1.4%
Governmental workers 83,641 10.9% 2.5%
Not for profit companies 54,741 7.2% 2.7%

Transportation in San Fernando Valley

How people get around in San Fernando Valley

In San Fernando Valley, the average commute time is 431 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 93.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
431 min
-24.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 550,088 93.4% -2.6%
Taxicab 2,627 0.4% -6.4%
Bus or trolleybus 18,720 3.2% -11.4%
Railroad 454 0.1% -38.8%
Ferryboat 1,552 0.3% -4.0%
Motorcycle 1,157 0.2% -6.5%
Bicycle 2,445 0.4% 3.0%
Walk 12,059 2% -4.0%
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.

What is the median and average household income in San Fernando Valley by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
91040 20,821 7,572 $98,256 $124,051
91042 26,928 10,214 $85,603 $114,790
91303 29,805 10,702 $74,474 $89,891
91304 52,474 18,194 $90,007 $127,277
91306 47,176 14,709 $93,151 $119,206
91307 26,580 8,938 $151,190 $193,573
91311 40,898 14,561 $119,386 $148,139
91316 29,491 12,883 $92,311 $149,642
91324 30,699 10,730 $99,610 $127,766
91325 35,062 12,894 $87,168 $124,489

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FAQs about San Fernando Valley demographics 

What is the total population of San Fernando Valley?

San Fernando Valley has a total population of 1,500,216 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in San Fernando Valley?

The gender ratio in San Fernando Valley is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (746,393 residents)
  • 50.2% females (753,822 residents)

What is the median age in San Fernando Valley?

The median age in San Fernando Valley is 38.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in San Fernando Valley?

The age distribution in San Fernando Valley is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.5% (248,196 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (175,681 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.5% (457,022 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.1% (391,150 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.2% (228,167 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of San Fernando Valley?

The racial and ethnic makeup of San Fernando Valley is as follows:
  • White: 39.9% (599,099 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.4% (66,832 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (14,622 residents)
  • Asian: 11.2% (168,064 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (1,969 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 20.2% (303,835 residents)
  • Other: 23% (345,795 residents)

What percentage of the population in San Fernando Valley are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 61.4% of the population in San Fernando Valley.

How many housing units are there in San Fernando Valley?

There are 562,709 housing units in San Fernando Valley, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in San Fernando Valley and what is the average household size?

San Fernando Valley has a total of 532,574 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in San Fernando Valley?

San Fernando Valley has a median household income of $92,311, representing a +1.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for San Fernando Valley?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.1% (620,107 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.9% (144,556 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 17% (130,410 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.8% (495,871 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.9% (83,641 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (54,741 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