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

Total population
3,165,820
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$116,289/yr
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,146,169
0.7% year-over-year change

Orange County population

How many people live in Orange County

Orange County is home to 3,165,820 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Orange County locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
3,165,820
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
1,568,413
Female
50.5%
1,597,407
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,568,413 49.5% 0.0%
Female 1,597,407 50.5% 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 Orange County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.1% are children under 15, then 12.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.4% of the population, while another 26.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.1%
15 to 24
12.8%
25 to 44
27.4%
45 to 64
26.4%
Over 65
16.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 541,235 17.1% -1.8%
15 to 24 406,668 12.8% -0.3%
25 to 44 866,476 27.4% 0.2%
45 to 64 836,617 26.4% -0.6%
Over 65 514,824 16.3% 3.2%
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 Orange County, 68% of the population are US-born citizens, while 19.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 42.7% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 22.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.8% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 14.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 17.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
68%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
19.4%
Non-citizens
12.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,153,659 68% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 614,672 19.4% 2.0%
Non-citizens 397,489 12.6% 0.7%
Racial breakdown
White
42.7%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
22.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
17.7%
Other
14.4%
Value Percent
White 1,351,830 42.7%
Black or African American 51,497 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 27,023 0.8%
Asian 708,219 22.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 9,480 0.3%
Two or more races 561,581 17.7%
Other 456,190 14.4%

Households in Orange County

A peek inside Orange County households

Orange County has 1,082,960 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 70.5% are families, while the remaining 29.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,082,960
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
319,855
Family households
763,105
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 319,855 29.5% 1.8%
Family households 763,105 70.5% 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 Orange County

The housing landscape of Orange County

Orange County's housing consists of 1,146,169 units, with 49.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 13% 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 2.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,146,169
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 565,787 49.4%
1 unit, attached 148,650 13%
2 units 21,449 1.9%
3 or 4 units 79,952 7%
5 to 9 units 67,677 5.9%
10 to 19 units 53,547 4.7%
20 to 49 units 46,902 4.1%
50 or more units 131,236 11.4%
Mobile home 30,381 2.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 588 0%
Homes built since 2020
14,404
67.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Orange County

In Orange County, the median construction year is 1977. About 2.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 28,272 2.5% -0.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 21,545 1.9% -2.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 140,675 12.3% -1.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 205,622 17.9% 0.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 254,923 22.2% -0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 169,345 14.8% 1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 123,432 10.8% -0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 95,410 8.3% -0.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 92,541 8.1% 3.2%
Built in 2020 or later 14,404 1.3% 67.0%
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.

Orange County occupancy rates

Out of the 1,082,960 occupied housing units in Orange County, 56.4% are owner-occupied, while 43.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,082,960
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
472,301
Owner occupied
610,659
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 472,301 43.6% 0.9%
Owner occupied 610,659 56.4% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
5.5%
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.

Orange County housing costs

Housing costs in Orange County come to a median of $2,488 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,434.

Median housing costs per month
$2,488/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 Orange County
$2,434/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 Orange County

Orange County education at a glance

About 24.9% of the population in Orange County went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 26.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 164,642 6.6% 0.7%
High school diploma 622,564 24.9% 0.7%
College diploma 503,775 20.2% -3.4%
Associate degree 189,191 7.6% 0.8%
Bachelor's degree 655,205 26.2% 2.3%
Graduate degree 365,310 14.6% 2.0%
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 Orange County

How much people earn in Orange County

The average annual household income in Orange County was $156,759 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $116,289, reflecting a +2.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Orange County
$156,759/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Orange County
$116,289/year
2.3% year-over-year change

Orange County income by age

In Orange County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $126,306. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $135,382 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $56,537, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $84,615 in earnings. Overall, 90.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $56,537 7.3%
25 - 44 $126,306 4.1%
45 - 64 $135,382 2.8%
Over 65 $84,615 2.8%
Above poverty level
2,803,184
Below poverty level
293,479
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,803,184 90.5% 0.0%
Below poverty level 293,479 9.5% 0.2%

Employment in Orange County

Workforce and job types in Orange County

The job market in Orange County is powered by 1,600,642 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.8% run their own businesses, 69% are employed by private companies, and 12% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,600,642
0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
1,342,548
Blue collar
258,094
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,342,548 83.9% 0.8%
Blue collar 258,094 16.1% -1.7%
Employer type
Self employees
12.8%
Private companies
69%
Governmental workers
12%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 205,134 12.8% 1.2%
Private companies 1,104,888 69% -0.1%
Governmental workers 191,721 12% 0.8%
Not for profit companies 98,899 6.2% 3.4%
Unemployment rate
5.4%
1.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Orange County stands at 5.4%, 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 Orange County

How people get around in Orange County

In Orange County, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
-1.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,196,833 76.4% -2.2%
Taxicab 1,789 0.1% 23.9%
Bus or trolleybus 14,663 0.9% -4.6%
Subway or elevated 738 0% N/A
Railroad 2,335 0.2% -15.3%
Ferryboat 92 0% -35.7%
Motorcycle 2,683 0.2% -9.6%
Bicycle 8,871 0.6% 3.9%
Walk 26,586 1.7% -3.4%
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 Orange County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
90620 46,608 13,226 $126,094 $146,274
90621 35,984 10,977 $97,612 $118,484
90623 15,545 5,176 $116,594 $157,606
90630 49,318 16,224 $130,154 $155,028
90631 68,309 22,730 $104,251 $137,775
90680 31,991 10,476 $85,592 $116,326
90720 23,805 8,478 $135,851 $190,362
90740 24,254 12,642 $85,347 $128,448
90742 405 251 $122,250 $155,950
90743 468 195 $170,966 $172,706

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FAQs about Orange County demographics 

What is the total population of Orange County?

Orange County has a total population of 3,165,820 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Orange County?

The gender ratio in Orange County is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (1,568,413 residents)
  • 50.5% females (1,597,407 residents)

What is the median age in Orange County?

The median age in Orange County is 39.4.

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

The age distribution in Orange County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.1% (541,235 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.8% (406,668 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.4% (866,476 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.4% (836,617 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.3% (514,824 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Orange County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Orange County is as follows:
  • White: 42.7% (1,351,830 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (51,497 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (27,023 residents)
  • Asian: 22.4% (708,219 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (9,480 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 17.7% (561,581 residents)
  • Other: 14.4% (456,190 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 68% of the population in Orange County.

How many housing units are there in Orange County?

There are 1,146,169 housing units in Orange County, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Orange County has a total of 1,082,960 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Orange County?

Orange County has a median household income of $116,289, representing a +2.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.6% in Orange County, with a workforce of 1,600,642 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.9% (1,342,548 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.1% (258,094 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.8% (205,134 residents)
  • Private companies: 69% (1,104,888 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12% (191,721 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (98,899 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