Madera County, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
160,940
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,627/yr
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
51,015
1.3% year-over-year change

Madera County population

How many people live in Madera County

Madera County is home to 160,940 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Madera County locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
160,940
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
79,101
Female
50.8%
81,839
Value Percent YoY change
Male 79,101 49.2% 1.5%
Female 81,839 50.8% 1.2%
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 Madera County is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.2% are children under 15, then 14.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.8% of the population, while another 21.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.2%
15 to 24
14.8%
25 to 44
26.8%
45 to 64
21.8%
Over 65
14.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 35,644 22.2% -0.2%
15 to 24 23,834 14.8% 4.6%
25 to 44 43,141 26.8% 1.2%
45 to 64 35,173 21.8% 0.8%
Over 65 23,148 14.4% 1.5%
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 Madera County, 78.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 37.7% of locals are Caucasian, 2.6% are African American and 2.4% have Asian roots. Another 2.1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 34% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 21% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.4%
Non-citizens
13%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 126,549 78.6% 1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 13,552 8.4% 3.6%
Non-citizens 20,839 13% -0.1%
Racial breakdown
White
37.7%
Black or African American
2.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.1%
Asian
2.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
21%
Other
34%
Value Percent
White 60,715 37.7%
Black or African American 4,158 2.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,326 2.1%
Asian 3,846 2.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 282 0.2%
Two or more races 33,818 21%
Other 54,795 34%

Households in Madera County

A peek inside Madera County households

Madera County has 45,379 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 75.7% are families, while the remaining 24.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
45,379
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
11,029
Family households
34,350
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 11,029 24.3% 7.2%
Family households 34,350 75.7% 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 Madera County

The housing landscape of Madera County

Madera County's housing consists of 51,015 units, with 80% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 6.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
51,015
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 40,826 80%
1 unit, attached 1,132 2.2%
2 units 884 1.7%
3 or 4 units 1,588 3.1%
5 to 9 units 1,137 2.2%
10 to 19 units 710 1.4%
20 to 49 units 653 1.3%
50 or more units 738 1.4%
Mobile home 3,108 6.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 239 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
1,340
90.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Madera County

In Madera County, the median construction year is 1988. About 3.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,597 3.1% -7.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,845 3.6% -16.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,989 5.9% 1.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,757 7.4% 5.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,735 17.1% -1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 8,114 15.9% 6.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 8,369 16.4% -1.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 10,594 20.8% -1.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,675 7.2% 8.2%
Built in 2020 or later 1,340 2.6% 90.3%
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.

Madera County occupancy rates

Out of the 45,379 occupied housing units in Madera County, 67.5% are owner-occupied, while 32.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
45,379
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
14,766
Owner occupied
30,613
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 14,766 32.5% -3.8%
Owner occupied 30,613 67.5% 5.0%
Unoccupied housing units
11.0%
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.

Madera County housing costs

Housing costs in Madera County come to a median of $1,482 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,390.

Median housing costs per month
$1,482/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 Madera County
$1,390/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 Madera County

Madera County education at a glance

About 37.5% of the population in Madera County went to high school, while 24.1% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 11% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 16,626 14.2% 3.3%
High school diploma 44,012 37.5% 2.5%
College diploma 28,294 24.1% -3.9%
Associate degree 9,105 7.8% 4.1%
Bachelor's degree 12,942 11% 3.3%
Graduate degree 6,289 5.4% 12.9%
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 Madera County

How much people earn in Madera County

The average annual household income in Madera County was $100,809 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,627, reflecting a +1.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Madera County
$100,809/year
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Madera County
$76,627/year
1.5% year-over-year change

Madera County income by age

In Madera County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,907. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,630 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $75,117, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $64,480 in earnings. Overall, 80.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $75,117 31.4%
25 - 44 $76,907 -3.7%
45 - 64 $87,630 5.2%
Over 65 $64,480 -0.4%
Above poverty level
123,310
Below poverty level
29,164
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 123,310 80.9% 2.4%
Below poverty level 29,164 19.1% -2.0%

Employment in Madera County

Workforce and job types in Madera County

The job market in Madera County is powered by 62,029 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.2% run their own businesses, 64.5% are employed by private companies, and 18% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
62,029
2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
40,883
Blue collar
21,146
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 40,883 65.9% 4.6%
Blue collar 21,146 34.1% -1.0%
Employer type
Self employees
11.2%
Private companies
64.5%
Governmental workers
18%
Not for profit companies
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,930 11.2% -1.1%
Private companies 40,009 64.5% 1.6%
Governmental workers 11,147 18% 8.1%
Not for profit companies 3,943 6.4% 5.2%
Unemployment rate
10.1%
-2.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Madera County stands at 10.1%, 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 Madera County

How people get around in Madera County

Commuting methods vary: 83.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 50,165 83.4% 1.8%
Taxicab 8 0% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 146 0.2% 37.7%
Subway or elevated 21 0% N/A
Railroad 5 0% -72.2%
Motorcycle 218 0.4% 0.0%
Bicycle 65 0.1% -4.4%
Walk 947 1.6% -19.1%
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 Madera County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
93601 1,360 702 $76,555 $93,616
93604 710 264 $134,357 $184,434
93610 23,520 5,660 $68,083 $84,625
93614 11,445 4,219 $87,869 $96,614
93622 9,084 2,670 $48,021 $55,864
93626 3,304 1,212 $173,788 $212,340
93636 15,294 4,794 $133,274 $154,761
93637 43,785 12,213 $71,724 $99,202
93638 50,571 12,030 $62,374 $81,306
93643 3,041 1,287 $71,082 $86,257

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FAQs about Madera County demographics 

What is the total population of Madera County?

Madera County has a total population of 160,940 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 +1.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Madera County?

The gender ratio in Madera County is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (79,101 residents)
  • 50.8% females (81,839 residents)

What is the median age in Madera County?

The median age in Madera County is 34.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Madera County?

The age distribution in Madera County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.2% (35,644 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.8% (23,834 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.8% (43,141 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.8% (35,173 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.4% (23,148 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Madera County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Madera County is as follows:
  • White: 37.7% (60,715 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.6% (4,158 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.1% (3,326 residents)
  • Asian: 2.4% (3,846 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (282 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 21% (33,818 residents)
  • Other: 34% (54,795 residents)

What percentage of the population in Madera County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 78.6% of the population in Madera County.

How many housing units are there in Madera County?

There are 51,015 housing units in Madera County, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Madera County and what is the average household size?

Madera County has a total of 45,379 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Madera County?

Madera County has a median household income of $76,627, representing a +1.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Madera County?

The employment rate is 89.9% in Madera County, with a workforce of 62,029 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.9% (40,883 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.1% (21,146 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.2% (6,930 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.5% (40,009 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18% (11,147 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.4% (3,943 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