Prunedale, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
19,723
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$103,819/yr
-2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,922
2.1% year-over-year change

Prunedale population

How many people live in Prunedale

Prunedale is home to 19,723 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Prunedale locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
19,723
2.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
9,863
Female
50%
9,860
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,863 50% 6.4%
Female 9,860 50% -1.5%
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 Prunedale is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.6% are children under 15, then 13.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.9% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.6%
15 to 24
13.9%
25 to 44
23.9%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
16.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,266 21.6% -5.1%
15 to 24 2,744 13.9% 11.4%
25 to 44 4,721 23.9% -1.0%
45 to 64 4,746 24.1% 5.8%
Over 65 3,246 16.5% 5.6%
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 Prunedale, 78.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 48.3% of locals are Caucasian, 1.4% are African American and 4.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 20.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8%
Non-citizens
13.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,424 78.2% 4.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,576 8% -1.9%
Non-citizens 2,723 13.8% -4.8%
Racial breakdown
White
48.3%
Black or African American
1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
4.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.9%
Two or more races
20.5%
Other
24.3%
Value Percent
White 9,527 48.3%
Black or African American 268 1.4%
Asian 923 4.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 182 0.9%
Two or more races 4,039 20.5%
Other 4,784 24.3%

Households in Prunedale

A peek inside Prunedale households

Prunedale has 5,652 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 76.6% are families, while the remaining 23.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,652
3.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,321
Family households
4,331
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,321 23.4% 17.4%
Family households 4,331 76.6% -0.4%
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 Prunedale

The housing landscape of Prunedale

Prunedale's housing consists of 5,922 units, with 78.9% 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 12.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,922
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,673 78.9%
1 unit, attached 286 4.8%
2 units 62 1%
3 or 4 units 34 0.6%
5 to 9 units 145 2.4%
20 to 49 units 2 0%
Mobile home 720 12.2%
Homes built since 2020
4
33.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Prunedale

In Prunedale, the median construction year is 1977. About 1.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 98 1.6% 66.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 136 2.3% 29.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 811 13.7% 6.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 891 15% -7.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,536 25.9% -4.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,187 20% -0.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 575 9.7% -6.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 394 6.6% 21.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 290 4.9% 69.6%
Built in 2020 or later 4 0.1% 33.3%
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.

Prunedale occupancy rates

Out of the 5,652 occupied housing units in Prunedale, 76.7% are owner-occupied, while 23.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,652
3.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,315
Owner occupied
4,337
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,315 23.3% 3.5%
Owner occupied 4,337 76.7% 3.2%
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.

Prunedale housing costs

Housing costs in Prunedale come to a median of $2,044 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,618.

Median housing costs per month
$2,044/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 Prunedale
$1,618/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 Prunedale

Prunedale education at a glance

About 34.7% of the population in Prunedale went to high school, while 21.8% pursued college studies. Another 9.8% earned an associate degree and 14.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,758 12.2% -14.2%
High school diploma 4,997 34.7% 3.7%
College diploma 3,142 21.8% 13.0%
Associate degree 1,416 9.8% -5.3%
Bachelor's degree 2,028 14.1% 7.0%
Graduate degree 1,062 7.4% 17.5%
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 Prunedale

How much people earn in Prunedale

The average annual household income in Prunedale was $143,361 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -5.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $103,819, reflecting a -2.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Prunedale
$143,361/year
-5.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Prunedale
$103,819/year
-2.5% year-over-year change

Prunedale income by age

In Prunedale, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $104,125. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $108,939 overall. Overall, 88.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $104,125 30.3%
45 - 64 $108,939 -4.1%
Over 65 $86,458 -1.1%
Above poverty level
17,324
Below poverty level
2,154
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,324 88.9% -0.5%
Below poverty level 2,154 11.1% 34.0%

Average renter income in Prunedale

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Prunedale, their median household income was $62,105 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$62,105
Rent-to-income ratio
31.3%
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 Prunedale

Workforce and job types in Prunedale

The job market in Prunedale is powered by 7,797 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.8% run their own businesses, 66% are employed by private companies, and 13.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,797
-0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
5,478
Blue collar
2,319
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,478 70.3% 1.4%
Blue collar 2,319 29.7% -3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
12.8%
Private companies
66%
Governmental workers
13.6%
Not for profit companies
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 994 12.8% 13.3%
Private companies 5,142 66% -8.1%
Governmental workers 1,061 13.6% 28.6%
Not for profit companies 600 7.7% 19.1%
Unemployment rate
8.5%
29.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Prunedale stands at 8.5%, 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 Prunedale

How people get around in Prunedale

Commuting methods vary: 86.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% 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 6,677 86.9% 0.6%
Bus or trolleybus 14 0.2% 7.7%
Motorcycle 82 1.1% -18.8%
Bicycle 9 0.1% 125.0%
Walk 71 0.9% 69.0%
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.

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FAQs about Prunedale demographics 

What is the total population of Prunedale?

Prunedale has a total population of 19,723 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 +2.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Prunedale?

The gender ratio in Prunedale is as follows:
  • 50% males (9,863 residents)
  • 50% females (9,860 residents)

What is the median age in Prunedale?

The median age in Prunedale is 37.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Prunedale?

The age distribution in Prunedale is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.6% (4,266 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.9% (2,744 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.9% (4,721 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (4,746 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.5% (3,246 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Prunedale?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Prunedale is as follows:
  • White: 48.3% (9,527 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.4% (268 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 4.7% (923 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.9% (182 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 20.5% (4,039 residents)
  • Other: 24.3% (4,784 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 78.2% of the population in Prunedale.

How many housing units are there in Prunedale?

There are 5,922 housing units in Prunedale, 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 Prunedale and what is the average household size?

Prunedale has a total of 5,652 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Prunedale?

Prunedale has a median household income of $103,819, representing a -2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.5% in Prunedale, with a workforce of 7,797 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.3% (5,478 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.7% (2,319 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.8% (994 residents)
  • Private companies: 66% (5,142 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.6% (1,061 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.7% (600 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