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

Total population
783,493
-1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,906/yr
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
245,392
0.3% year-over-year change

South L.A. population

How many people live in South L.A.

South L.A. is home to 783,493 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of South L.A. locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
783,493
-1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
382,397
Female
51.2%
401,096
Value Percent YoY change
Male 382,397 48.8% -1.7%
Female 401,096 51.2% -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 South L.A. is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.3% are children under 15, then 16.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29% of the population, while another 23.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
33
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.3%
15 to 24
16.2%
25 to 44
29%
45 to 64
23.4%
Over 65
11.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 158,782 20.3% -3.1%
15 to 24 127,178 16.2% -0.5%
25 to 44 227,643 29% -1.6%
45 to 64 183,007 23.4% -0.1%
Over 65 86,883 11.1% 1.7%
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 South L.A., 64.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 12.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 23.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 8.8% of locals are Caucasian, 23.7% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. Another 1.7% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 38.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 24.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
64.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
12.5%
Non-citizens
23.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 502,204 64.1% -1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 97,854 12.5% -0.9%
Non-citizens 183,435 23.4% 0.0%
Racial breakdown
White
8.8%
Black or African American
23.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.7%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
24.2%
Other
38.7%
Value Percent
White 69,084 8.8%
Black or African American 185,983 23.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 13,602 1.7%
Asian 20,456 2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,356 0.2%
Two or more races 189,841 24.2%
Other 303,172 38.7%

Households in South L.A.

A peek inside South L.A. households

South L.A. has 230,521 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 69.8% are families, while the remaining 30.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
230,521
0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
69,742
Family households
160,779
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 69,742 30.2% 0.7%
Family households 160,779 69.8% -0.3%
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 South L.A.

The housing landscape of South L.A.

South L.A.'s housing consists of 245,392 units, with 43.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 12% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
245,392
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 107,349 43.8%
1 unit, attached 29,432 12%
2 units 15,920 6.5%
3 or 4 units 30,812 12.6%
5 to 9 units 20,717 8.4%
10 to 19 units 16,069 6.6%
20 to 49 units 13,021 5.3%
50 or more units 10,900 4.4%
Mobile home 1,030 0.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 142 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
2,567
78.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South L.A.

In South L.A., the median construction year is 1954. About 33.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 14.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.9% 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 81,616 33.3% 0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 34,853 14.2% -2.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 31,953 13% -1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 23,615 9.6% -8.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 18,782 7.6% 0.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 16,551 6.7% 0.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 12,440 5.1% 2.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 11,058 4.5% 6.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 11,957 4.9% 15.9%
Built in 2020 or later 2,567 1% 78.1%
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.

South L.A. occupancy rates

Out of the 230,521 occupied housing units in South L.A., 34.5% are owner-occupied, while 65.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
230,521
0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
151,049
Owner occupied
79,472
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 151,049 65.5% 0.5%
Owner occupied 79,472 34.5% -0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
6.1%
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.

South L.A. housing costs

Housing costs in South L.A. come to a median of $1,636 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,540.

Median housing costs per month
$1,636/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 South L.A.
$1,540/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 South L.A.

South L.A. education at a glance

About 38.2% of the population in South L.A. went to high school, while 21.6% pursued college studies. Another 5.3% earned an associate degree and 10.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 115,566 19.6% -1.5%
High school diploma 225,069 38.2% -0.7%
College diploma 126,998 21.6% -0.7%
Associate degree 31,172 5.3% -3.0%
Bachelor's degree 61,942 10.5% 2.5%
Graduate degree 27,905 4.7% 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 South L.A.

How much people earn in South L.A.

The average annual household income in South L.A. was $83,179 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,906, reflecting a +0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South L.A.
$83,179/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in South L.A.
$60,906/year
0.8% year-over-year change

South L.A. income by age

In South 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 $64,149. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,570 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $56,628, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,462 in earnings. Overall, 77% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $56,628 -4.7%
25 - 44 $64,149 8.4%
45 - 64 $66,570 5.8%
Over 65 $45,462 1.6%
Above poverty level
585,656
Below poverty level
174,568
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 585,656 77% -1.0%
Below poverty level 174,568 23% -1.4%

Employment in South L.A.

Workforce and job types in South L.A.

69.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.9% run their own businesses, 67.4% are employed by private companies, and 12.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
234,471
Blue collar
104,128
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 234,471 69.2% -0.5%
Blue collar 104,128 30.8% -2.5%
Employer type
Self employees
12.9%
Private companies
67.4%
Governmental workers
12.4%
Not for profit companies
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 43,729 12.9% 2.9%
Private companies 228,210 67.4% -2.7%
Governmental workers 41,935 12.4% -1.2%
Not for profit companies 24,724 7.3% 8.4%

Transportation in South L.A.

How people get around in South L.A.

In South L.A., the average commute time is 331 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
331 min
24.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 247,224 86.3% -1.9%
Taxicab 1,501 0.5% -19.8%
Bus or trolleybus 25,722 9% -8.7%
Railroad 410 0.1% 3.0%
Motorcycle 631 0.2% 12.9%
Bicycle 2,081 0.7% -17.4%
Walk 9,018 3.2% 2.7%
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 South L.A. by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
90001 56,189 13,671 $60,767 $75,956
90002 52,122 13,039 $59,021 $75,123
90003 70,065 17,782 $56,030 $70,030
90007 38,715 12,633 $35,378 $55,878
90008 33,252 14,526 $61,846 $93,031
90011 100,113 24,106 $59,017 $74,931
90016 46,457 18,091 $73,516 $110,023
90018 48,745 16,899 $62,864 $83,583
90037 65,482 17,615 $57,622 $75,919
90043 42,377 16,805 $64,792 $101,727

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FAQs about South L.A. demographics 

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

South L.A. has a total population of 783,493 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 -1.0% compared to a year ago.

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

The gender ratio in South L.A. is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (382,397 residents)
  • 51.2% females (401,096 residents)

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

The median age in South L.A. is 33.

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

The age distribution in South L.A. is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.3% (158,782 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.2% (127,178 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29% (227,643 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.4% (183,007 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.1% (86,883 residents)

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

The racial and ethnic makeup of South L.A. is as follows:
  • White: 8.8% (69,084 residents)
  • Black or African American: 23.7% (185,983 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.7% (13,602 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (20,456 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (1,356 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 24.2% (189,841 residents)
  • Other: 38.7% (303,172 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 64.1% of the population in South L.A..

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

There are 245,392 housing units in South L.A., reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

South L.A. has a total of 230,521 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

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

South L.A. has a median household income of $60,906, representing a +0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.2% (234,471 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.8% (104,128 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.9% (43,729 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.4% (228,210 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.4% (41,935 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.3% (24,724 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