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

Total population
19,423
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,031/yr
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,921
-0.8% year-over-year change

Plumas County population

How many people live in Plumas County

Plumas County is home to 19,423 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.2% of Plumas County locals are male, and 48.8% are female.

Total population
19,423
-0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.2%
9,935
Female
48.8%
9,488
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,935 51.2% -0.6%
Female 9,488 48.8% -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 Plumas County is 52, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.7% are children under 15, then 8.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.1% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 31.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
52
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.7%
15 to 24
8.1%
25 to 44
21.1%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
31.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,668 13.7% -1.7%
15 to 24 1,575 8.1% -6.5%
25 to 44 4,101 21.1% 2.1%
45 to 64 4,965 25.6% -7.1%
Over 65 6,114 31.5% 4.5%
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 Plumas County, 94.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.8% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.3%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,325 94.4% -2.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 835 4.3% 28.9%
Non-citizens 263 1.4% 42.9%
Racial breakdown
White
83.8%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.8%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.5%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 16,266 83.8%
Black or African American 315 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 549 2.8%
Asian 196 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 1,647 8.5%
Other 449 2.3%

Households in Plumas County

A peek inside Plumas County households

Plumas County has 8,054 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.1% are families, while the remaining 36.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,054
-0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,969
Family households
5,085
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,969 36.9% -2.8%
Family households 5,085 63.1% 1.7%
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 Plumas County

The housing landscape of Plumas County

Plumas County's housing consists of 14,921 units, with 83.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 10.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,921
-0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,473 83.6%
1 unit, attached 176 1.2%
2 units 168 1.1%
3 or 4 units 152 1%
5 to 9 units 56 0.4%
10 to 19 units 38 0.2%
20 to 49 units 155 1%
50 or more units 131 0.9%
Mobile home 1,503 10.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 69 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
46
48.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Plumas County

In Plumas County, the median construction year is 1981. About 4.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 668 4.5% -4.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 631 4.2% -10.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,084 7.3% -14.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,727 11.6% -8.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,939 19.7% 1.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,785 18.7% 8.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,428 16.3% -11.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,174 14.6% 11.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 439 2.9% 50.3%
Built in 2020 or later 46 0.3% 48.4%
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.

Plumas County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,054 occupied housing units in Plumas County, 74.6% are owner-occupied, while 25.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 46% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,054
-0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,048
Owner occupied
6,006
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,048 25.4% 0.8%
Owner occupied 6,006 74.6% -0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
46.0%
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.

Plumas County housing costs

Housing costs in Plumas County come to a median of $1,161 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,194.

Median housing costs per month
$1,161/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 Plumas County
$1,194/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 Plumas County

Plumas County education at a glance

About 32.4% of the population in Plumas County went to high school, while 30.1% pursued college studies. Another 13% earned an associate degree and 14% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 426 2.6% 27.9%
High school diploma 5,219 32.4% -0.9%
College diploma 4,844 30.1% -11.1%
Associate degree 2,093 13% 7.8%
Bachelor's degree 2,255 14% 8.3%
Graduate degree 1,250 7.8% 13.1%
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 Plumas County

How much people earn in Plumas County

The average annual household income in Plumas County was $96,802 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,031, reflecting a +1.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Plumas County
$96,802/year
3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Plumas County
$66,031/year
1.7% year-over-year change

Plumas County income by age

In Plumas County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,904. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $79,231 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,227, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,636 in earnings. Overall, 89.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,227 47.5%
25 - 44 $83,904 8.3%
45 - 64 $79,231 -6.3%
Over 65 $55,636 -4.9%
Above poverty level
17,027
Below poverty level
2,005
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,027 89.5% -0.4%
Below poverty level 2,005 10.5% -0.5%

Employment in Plumas County

Workforce and job types in Plumas County

The job market in Plumas County is powered by 6,978 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.4% run their own businesses, 46.7% are employed by private companies, and 28.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,978
-2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
5,328
Blue collar
1,650
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,328 76.4% -0.5%
Blue collar 1,650 23.6% -7.6%
Employer type
Self employees
15.4%
Private companies
46.7%
Governmental workers
28.3%
Not for profit companies
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,073 15.4% 15.0%
Private companies 3,258 46.7% -5.9%
Governmental workers 1,976 28.3% -5.3%
Not for profit companies 671 9.6% 2.0%
Unemployment rate
9.2%
-8.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Plumas County 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 Plumas County

How people get around in Plumas County

In Plumas County, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,876 86.7% -2.8%
Bicycle 60 0.9% 87.5%
Walk 287 4.2% 12.6%
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 Plumas County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
95923 68 35 $0 $97,534
95934 63 50 $0 $23,642
95947 1,505 598 $82,500 $163,555
95956 373 186 $61,324 $85,547
95971 6,419 2,304 $83,269 $98,031
95981 99 39 $91,016 $93,297
95983 302 183 $54,968 $61,033
95984 51 51 $0 $31,586
96020 2,222 1,119 $50,489 $99,383

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FAQs about Plumas County demographics 

What is the total population of Plumas County?

Plumas County has a total population of 19,423 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 -0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Plumas County?

The gender ratio in Plumas County is as follows:
  • 51.2% males (9,935 residents)
  • 48.8% females (9,488 residents)

What is the median age in Plumas County?

The median age in Plumas County is 52.

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

The age distribution in Plumas County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.7% (2,668 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.1% (1,575 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.1% (4,101 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (4,965 residents)
  • Over 65: 31.5% (6,114 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Plumas County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Plumas County is as follows:
  • White: 83.8% (16,266 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (315 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.8% (549 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (196 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.5% (1,647 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (449 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.4% of the population in Plumas County.

How many housing units are there in Plumas County?

There are 14,921 housing units in Plumas County, reflecting a -0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Plumas County has a total of 8,054 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Plumas County?

Plumas County has a median household income of $66,031, representing a +1.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 90.8% in Plumas County, with a workforce of 6,978 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.4% (5,328 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.6% (1,650 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.4% (1,073 residents)
  • Private companies: 46.7% (3,258 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 28.3% (1,976 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.6% (671 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