Oakland, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
439,418
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$101,600/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
191,713
2.1% year-over-year change

Oakland population

How many people live in Oakland

Oakland is home to 439,418 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Oakland locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
439,418
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
217,829
Female
50.4%
221,589
Value Percent YoY change
Male 217,829 49.6% 0.5%
Female 221,589 50.4% 0.1%
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 Oakland is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.6% are children under 15, then 10.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 35.4% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.6%
15 to 24
10.2%
25 to 44
35.4%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
14.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 68,573 15.6% -3.3%
15 to 24 44,981 10.2% 1.4%
25 to 44 155,607 35.4% 0.5%
45 to 64 105,737 24.1% 0.2%
Over 65 64,520 14.7% 3.3%
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 Oakland, 70.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 15.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 29.6% of locals are Caucasian, 20.2% are African American and 15.8% have Asian roots. Another 1.5% are Indigenous American, 0.5% are Pacific Islanders, while 19.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
70.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
15.5%
Non-citizens
13.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 310,156 70.6% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 68,111 15.5% 3.7%
Non-citizens 61,151 13.9% 1.3%
Racial breakdown
White
29.6%
Black or African American
20.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.5%
Asian
15.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.5%
Two or more races
12.9%
Other
19.5%
Value Percent
White 129,983 29.6%
Black or African American 88,825 20.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 6,570 1.5%
Asian 69,532 15.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2,018 0.5%
Two or more races 56,707 12.9%
Other 85,783 19.5%

Households in Oakland

A peek inside Oakland households

Oakland has 176,584 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.8% are families, while the remaining 46.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
176,584
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
81,669
Family households
94,915
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 81,669 46.2% 2.4%
Family households 94,915 53.8% 1.6%
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 Oakland

The housing landscape of Oakland

Oakland's housing consists of 191,713 units, with 41.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.8% 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 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
191,713
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 79,476 41.5%
1 unit, attached 9,256 4.8%
2 units 12,804 6.7%
3 or 4 units 20,070 10.5%
5 to 9 units 12,848 6.7%
10 to 19 units 12,393 6.5%
20 to 49 units 17,752 9.3%
50 or more units 25,870 13.5%
Mobile home 1,105 0.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 139 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
2,798
74.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Oakland

In Oakland, the median construction year is 1953. About 37.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.4% 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, 6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 71,234 37.2% 3.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 18,124 9.4% -0.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 19,338 10.1% -3.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 19,143 10% -4.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 19,210 10% 0.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,112 5.3% 0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,462 4.9% 0.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 10,886 5.7% -1.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 11,406 6% 21.7%
Built in 2020 or later 2,798 1.5% 74.7%
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.

Oakland occupancy rates

Out of the 176,584 occupied housing units in Oakland, 42.3% are owner-occupied, while 57.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
176,584
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
101,831
Owner occupied
74,753
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 101,831 57.7% 0.9%
Owner occupied 74,753 42.3% 3.5%
Unoccupied housing units
7.9%
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.

Oakland housing costs

Housing costs in Oakland come to a median of $2,251 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,979.

Median housing costs per month
$2,251/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 Oakland
$1,979/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 Oakland

Oakland education at a glance

About 23.2% of the population in Oakland went to high school, while 16.5% pursued college studies. Another 5.3% earned an associate degree and 26% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 20.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 31,274 8.8% 5.0%
High school diploma 82,827 23.2% -3.8%
College diploma 58,972 16.5% -0.9%
Associate degree 18,840 5.3% 1.8%
Bachelor's degree 92,538 26% 2.3%
Graduate degree 72,016 20.2% 4.0%
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 Oakland

How much people earn in Oakland

The average annual household income in Oakland was $149,718 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $101,600, reflecting a +4.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Oakland
$149,718/year
3.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Oakland
$101,600/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Oakland income by age

In Oakland, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $127,150. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $104,110 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,247, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $62,581 in earnings. Overall, 86.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,247 -10.3%
25 - 44 $127,150 5.9%
45 - 64 $104,110 2.6%
Over 65 $62,581 4.4%
Above poverty level
373,403
Below poverty level
57,350
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 373,403 86.7% 0.8%
Below poverty level 57,350 13.3% -1.8%

Average renter income in Oakland

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Oakland, their median household income was $68,434 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$68,434
Rent-to-income ratio
34.7%
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 Oakland

Workforce and job types in Oakland

The job market in Oakland is powered by 234,902 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.1% run their own businesses, 62.3% are employed by private companies, and 14.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
234,902
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
198,237
Blue collar
36,665
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 198,237 84.4% 1.9%
Blue collar 36,665 15.6% -3.1%
Employer type
Self employees
11.1%
Private companies
62.3%
Governmental workers
14.2%
Not for profit companies
12.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 26,072 11.1% 0.0%
Private companies 146,447 62.3% 0.1%
Governmental workers 33,480 14.2% 1.0%
Not for profit companies 28,903 12.3% 7.8%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
8.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Oakland stands at 6.4%, 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 Oakland

How people get around in Oakland

In Oakland, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 54.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
-2.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 124,959 54.4% -0.1%
Taxicab 1,169 0.5% -17.6%
Bus or trolleybus 10,002 4.4% -5.5%
Subway or elevated 15,910 6.9% N/A
Railroad 1,845 0.8% -13.6%
Ferryboat 657 0.3% 24.0%
Motorcycle 510 0.2% -22.1%
Bicycle 3,974 1.7% -6.7%
Walk 6,727 2.9% -2.3%
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 Oakland by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94601 53,259 16,734 $72,359 $100,933
94602 31,759 12,496 $122,263 $181,717
94603 35,742 10,527 $76,723 $89,908
94605 44,103 16,594 $106,068 $149,539
94606 39,966 16,337 $72,470 $107,291
94607 28,804 13,453 $94,863 $129,270
94609 23,928 11,049 $107,834 $169,282
94610 32,628 16,372 $134,507 $184,246
94611 40,116 18,387 $180,549 $254,459
94612 18,175 11,097 $74,037 $117,082

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FAQs about Oakland demographics 

What is the total population of Oakland?

Oakland has a total population of 439,418 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Oakland?

The gender ratio in Oakland is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (217,829 residents)
  • 50.4% females (221,589 residents)

What is the median age in Oakland?

The median age in Oakland is 37.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Oakland?

The age distribution in Oakland is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.6% (68,573 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.2% (44,981 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 35.4% (155,607 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (105,737 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.7% (64,520 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Oakland?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Oakland is as follows:
  • White: 29.6% (129,983 residents)
  • Black or African American: 20.2% (88,825 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.5% (6,570 residents)
  • Asian: 15.8% (69,532 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.5% (2,018 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.9% (56,707 residents)
  • Other: 19.5% (85,783 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 70.6% of the population in Oakland.

How many housing units are there in Oakland?

There are 191,713 housing units in Oakland, reflecting a +2.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Oakland has a total of 176,584 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Oakland?

Oakland has a median household income of $101,600, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.6% in Oakland, with a workforce of 234,902 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.4% (198,237 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.6% (36,665 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.1% (26,072 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.3% (146,447 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.2% (33,480 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.3% (28,903 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