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

Total population
290,201
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,510/yr
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
90,872
1.4% year-over-year change

Merced County population

How many people live in Merced County

Merced County is home to 290,201 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.7% of Merced County locals are male, and 49.3% are female.

Total population
290,201
1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.7%
147,232
Female
49.3%
142,969
Value Percent YoY change
Male 147,232 50.7% 1.6%
Female 142,969 49.3% 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 Merced County is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.5% are children under 15, then 16.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.4% of the population, while another 20.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.5%
15 to 24
16.5%
25 to 44
27.4%
45 to 64
20.8%
Over 65
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 68,188 23.5% -0.2%
15 to 24 47,886 16.5% 4.6%
25 to 44 79,664 27.4% 1.8%
45 to 64 60,462 20.8% 0.5%
Over 65 34,001 11.7% 2.8%
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 Merced County, 73.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 14.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 31.5% of locals are Caucasian, 2.8% are African American and 7.2% have Asian roots. Another 1.5% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 41.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 15.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
73.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.8%
Non-citizens
14.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 213,059 73.4% 2.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 34,090 11.8% 0.0%
Non-citizens 43,052 14.8% -0.2%
Racial breakdown
White
31.5%
Black or African American
2.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.5%
Asian
7.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
15.4%
Other
41.3%
Value Percent
White 91,462 31.5%
Black or African American 8,082 2.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4,316 1.5%
Asian 20,971 7.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 975 0.3%
Two or more races 44,616 15.4%
Other 119,779 41.3%

Households in Merced County

A peek inside Merced County households

Merced County has 86,055 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 72.6% are families, while the remaining 27.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
86,055
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
23,590
Family households
62,465
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 23,590 27.4% 10.6%
Family households 62,465 72.6% -1.3%
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 Merced County

The housing landscape of Merced County

Merced County's housing consists of 90,872 units, with 74.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% 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 6.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
90,872
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 67,482 74.3%
1 unit, attached 1,677 1.8%
2 units 2,686 3%
3 or 4 units 4,243 4.7%
5 to 9 units 4,206 4.6%
10 to 19 units 2,013 2.2%
20 to 49 units 1,037 1.1%
50 or more units 1,827 2%
Mobile home 5,619 6.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 82 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
1,930
74.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Merced County

In Merced County, the median construction year is 1986. About 4.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,015 4.4% 1.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,515 5% -7.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 6,708 7.4% -13.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 7,245 8% -5.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 14,959 16.5% -1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 12,767 14% 2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 13,388 14.7% 3.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 19,280 21.2% 8.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,065 6.7% 5.2%
Built in 2020 or later 1,930 2.1% 74.2%
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.

Merced County occupancy rates

Out of the 86,055 occupied housing units in Merced County, 54% are owner-occupied, while 46% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
86,055
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
39,581
Owner occupied
46,474
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 39,581 46% 0.2%
Owner occupied 46,474 54% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
5.3%
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.

Merced County housing costs

Housing costs in Merced County come to a median of $1,381 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,343.

Median housing costs per month
$1,381/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 Merced County
$1,343/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 Merced County

Merced County education at a glance

About 41.2% of the population in Merced County went to high school, while 23% pursued college studies. Another 6.7% earned an associate degree and 10.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 30,723 14.8% 1.6%
High school diploma 85,201 41.2% 4.9%
College diploma 47,482 23% -2.9%
Associate degree 13,873 6.7% -2.7%
Bachelor's degree 21,210 10.2% 6.2%
Graduate degree 8,382 4% 8.0%
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 Merced County

How much people earn in Merced County

The average annual household income in Merced County was $87,781 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,510, reflecting a +0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Merced County
$87,781/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Merced County
$65,510/year
0.7% year-over-year change

Merced County income by age

In Merced County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,642. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,696 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,390, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,830 in earnings. Overall, 81% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,390 1.7%
25 - 44 $69,642 3.4%
45 - 64 $75,696 -1.1%
Over 65 $44,830 -4.3%
Above poverty level
228,639
Below poverty level
53,563
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 228,639 81% 1.1%
Below poverty level 53,563 19% 5.8%

Employment in Merced County

Workforce and job types in Merced County

The job market in Merced County is powered by 114,903 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 69.2% are employed by private companies, and 16.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
114,903
3.0% year-over-year change
White collar
72,358
Blue collar
42,545
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 72,358 63% 5.3%
Blue collar 42,545 37% -0.7%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
69.2%
Governmental workers
16.9%
Not for profit companies
5.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 9,605 8.4% -2.3%
Private companies 79,534 69.2% 2.3%
Governmental workers 19,407 16.9% 5.5%
Not for profit companies 6,357 5.5% 13.8%
Unemployment rate
10.6%
0.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Merced County stands at 10.6%, 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 Merced County

How people get around in Merced County

Commuting methods vary: 86.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% 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 96,136 86.6% 3.2%
Taxicab 28 0% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 521 0.5% 24.6%
Subway or elevated 39 0% N/A
Ferryboat 5 0% N/A
Motorcycle 101 0.1% 1.0%
Bicycle 228 0.2% -30.5%
Walk 2,691 2.4% 2.5%
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 Merced County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
95301 43,009 12,573 $68,349 $99,863
95303 784 274 $144,375 $159,687
95312 232 73 $80,625 $117,508
95315 13,598 3,716 $71,352 $85,612
95317 827 265 $57,153 $97,042
95322 9,506 3,602 $65,761 $79,859
93610 23,520 5,660 $68,083 $84,625
93620 9,927 3,532 $45,456 $58,825
93635 50,149 14,274 $67,129 $85,381
93665 114 44 $0 $-15,151,515

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FAQs about Merced County demographics 

What is the total population of Merced County?

Merced County has a total population of 290,201 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 +1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Merced County?

The gender ratio in Merced County is as follows:
  • 50.7% males (147,232 residents)
  • 49.3% females (142,969 residents)

What is the median age in Merced County?

The median age in Merced County is 31.8.

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

The age distribution in Merced County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.5% (68,188 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.5% (47,886 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.4% (79,664 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.8% (60,462 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.7% (34,001 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Merced County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Merced County is as follows:
  • White: 31.5% (91,462 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.8% (8,082 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.5% (4,316 residents)
  • Asian: 7.2% (20,971 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (975 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.4% (44,616 residents)
  • Other: 41.3% (119,779 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 73.4% of the population in Merced County.

How many housing units are there in Merced County?

There are 90,872 housing units in Merced County, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Merced County has a total of 86,055 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Merced County?

Merced County has a median household income of $65,510, representing a +0.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 89.4% in Merced County, with a workforce of 114,903 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63% (72,358 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37% (42,545 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (9,605 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.2% (79,534 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.9% (19,407 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.5% (6,357 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