Fairfax, Marin County, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,939
-2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$86,035/yr
-5.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,866
0.1% year-over-year change

Fairfax population

How many people live in Fairfax

Fairfax is home to 8,939 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Fairfax locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
8,939
-2.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
4,407
Female
50.7%
4,532
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,407 49.3% -3.5%
Female 4,532 50.7% -1.6%
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 Fairfax is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 10.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.3% of the population, while another 32.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
41
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
10.3%
25 to 44
21.3%
45 to 64
32.3%
Over 65
20.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,379 15.4% -0.1%
15 to 24 920 10.3% -11.3%
25 to 44 1,900 21.3% -8.4%
45 to 64 2,887 32.3% -2.0%
Over 65 1,853 20.7% 6.5%
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 Fairfax, 85% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.2% of locals are Caucasian, 2.2% are African American and 2.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 1% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.7%
Non-citizens
6.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,602 85% -2.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 777 8.7% -5.1%
Non-citizens 560 6.3% -6.3%
Racial breakdown
White
80.2%
Black or African American
2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
2.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
1%
Two or more races
8.8%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 7,165 80.2%
Black or African American 193 2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 62 0.7%
Asian 243 2.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 90 1%
Two or more races 788 8.8%
Other 398 4.4%

Households in Fairfax

A peek inside Fairfax households

Fairfax has 3,690 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 55.5% are families, while the remaining 44.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,690
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,641
Family households
2,049
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,641 44.5% 9.4%
Family households 2,049 55.5% -5.0%
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 Fairfax

The housing landscape of Fairfax

Fairfax's housing consists of 3,866 units, with 70.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,866
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,730 70.6%
1 unit, attached 311 8%
2 units 279 7.2%
3 or 4 units 130 3.4%
5 to 9 units 133 3.4%
10 to 19 units 85 2.2%
20 to 49 units 114 3%
50 or more units 46 1.2%
Mobile home 38 1%
Homes built since 2020
38
15.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fairfax

In Fairfax, the median construction year is 1962. About 32.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 1.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 0.5% 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 1,265 32.7% -6.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 300 7.8% -4.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 628 16.2% 7.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 412 10.7% 14.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 753 19.5% -4.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 255 6.6% 15.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 144 3.7% 6.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 50 1.3% -13.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 21 0.5% 16.7%
Built in 2020 or later 38 1% 15.2%
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.

Fairfax occupancy rates

Out of the 3,690 occupied housing units in Fairfax, 66.9% are owner-occupied, while 33.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,690
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,222
Owner occupied
2,468
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,222 33.1% -7.1%
Owner occupied 2,468 66.9% 5.4%
Unoccupied housing units
4.6%
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.

Fairfax housing costs

Housing costs in Fairfax come to a median of $2,032 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,887.

Median housing costs per month
$2,032/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 Fairfax
$1,887/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 Fairfax

Fairfax education at a glance

About 17.7% of the population in Fairfax went to high school, while 15.7% pursued college studies. Another 5.6% earned an associate degree and 34.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 22.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 264 3.7% 19.5%
High school diploma 1,279 17.7% -14.4%
College diploma 1,134 15.7% -16.1%
Associate degree 407 5.6% 1.5%
Bachelor's degree 2,488 34.5% 5.5%
Graduate degree 1,637 22.7% 7.3%
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 Fairfax

How much people earn in Fairfax

The average annual household income in Fairfax was $119,452 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $86,035, reflecting a -5.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fairfax
$119,452/year
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fairfax
$86,035/year
-5.6% year-over-year change

Fairfax income by age

In Fairfax, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $140,092. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $139,072 overall. Overall, 84.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $140,092 18.1%
45 - 64 $139,072 18.0%
Over 65 $53,920 -46.9%
Above poverty level
7,338
Below poverty level
1,360
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,338 84.4% -4.6%
Below poverty level 1,360 15.6% 8.9%

Average renter income in Fairfax

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fairfax, their median household income was $62,111 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$62,111
Rent-to-income ratio
36.5%
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 Fairfax

Workforce and job types in Fairfax

The job market in Fairfax is powered by 4,509 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 89.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 10.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 21.8% run their own businesses, 56.6% are employed by private companies, and 10.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,509
-3.4% year-over-year change
White collar
4,019
Blue collar
490
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,019 89.1% 1.1%
Blue collar 490 10.9% -29.0%
Employer type
Self employees
21.8%
Private companies
56.6%
Governmental workers
10.1%
Not for profit companies
11.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 981 21.8% -14.8%
Private companies 2,553 56.6% 0.3%
Governmental workers 456 10.1% -1.1%
Not for profit companies 519 11.5% 2.2%
Unemployment rate
9.2%
3.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fairfax stands at 9.2%, 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 Fairfax

How people get around in Fairfax

Commuting methods vary: 83.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.6% 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 2,456 83.7% -6.9%
Bus or trolleybus 78 2.7% 44.4%
Ferryboat 46 1.6% -4.2%
Bicycle 218 7.4% 5.3%
Walk 135 4.6% -30.1%
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 Fairfax by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94930 8,406 3,565 $145,362 $192,092

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FAQs about Fairfax demographics 

What is the total population of Fairfax?

Fairfax has a total population of 8,939 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 -2.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fairfax?

The gender ratio in Fairfax is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (4,407 residents)
  • 50.7% females (4,532 residents)

What is the median age in Fairfax?

The median age in Fairfax is 41.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fairfax?

The age distribution in Fairfax is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (1,379 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.3% (920 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.3% (1,900 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 32.3% (2,887 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.7% (1,853 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fairfax?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fairfax is as follows:
  • White: 80.2% (7,165 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.2% (193 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (62 residents)
  • Asian: 2.7% (243 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 1% (90 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.8% (788 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (398 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85% of the population in Fairfax.

How many housing units are there in Fairfax?

There are 3,866 housing units in Fairfax, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fairfax has a total of 3,690 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fairfax?

Fairfax has a median household income of $86,035, representing a -5.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Fairfax?

The employment rate is 90.8% in Fairfax, with a workforce of 4,509 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89.1% (4,019 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 10.9% (490 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 21.8% (981 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.6% (2,553 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.1% (456 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.5% (519 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