San Diego County, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,288,774
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$106,268/yr
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,250,641
0.8% year-over-year change

San Diego County population

How many people live in San Diego County

San Diego County is home to 3,288,774 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of San Diego County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
3,288,774
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
1,662,238
Female
49.5%
1,626,536
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,662,238 50.5% 0.1%
Female 1,626,536 49.5% 0.2%
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 San Diego County is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.3% are children under 15, then 13.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.2% of the population, while another 23.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.3%
15 to 24
13.3%
25 to 44
30.2%
45 to 64
23.7%
Over 65
15.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 570,116 17.3% -1.2%
15 to 24 437,273 13.3% 0.2%
25 to 44 993,598 30.2% 0.5%
45 to 64 780,053 23.7% -0.8%
Over 65 507,734 15.4% 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 San Diego County, 75.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 15.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 48.4% of locals are Caucasian, 4.6% are African American and 12.4% have Asian roots. Another 1.1% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 11.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 21.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
75.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
15.6%
Non-citizens
9.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,470,906 75.1% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 512,509 15.6% 1.5%
Non-citizens 305,359 9.3% 1.8%
Racial breakdown
White
48.4%
Black or African American
4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.1%
Asian
12.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
21.3%
Other
11.8%
Value Percent
White 1,592,607 48.4%
Black or African American 152,969 4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 35,126 1.1%
Asian 406,933 12.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 13,548 0.4%
Two or more races 699,565 21.3%
Other 388,026 11.8%

Households in San Diego County

A peek inside San Diego County households

San Diego County has 1,171,278 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.1% are families, while the remaining 33.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,171,278
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
396,581
Family households
774,697
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 396,581 33.9% 1.5%
Family households 774,697 66.1% 0.7%
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 San Diego County

The housing landscape of San Diego County

San Diego County's housing consists of 1,250,641 units, with 50% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10% 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 3.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,250,641
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 625,841 50%
1 unit, attached 125,654 10%
2 units 24,281 1.9%
3 or 4 units 62,670 5%
5 to 9 units 90,539 7.2%
10 to 19 units 76,330 6.1%
20 to 49 units 68,306 5.5%
50 or more units 133,897 10.7%
Mobile home 41,512 3.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1,611 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
17,511
77.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in San Diego County

In San Diego County, the median construction year is 1980. About 4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 50,375 4% -0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 37,975 3% -2.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 122,559 9.8% -1.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 140,544 11.2% -2.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 268,208 21.4% -0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 233,152 18.6% 1.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 141,073 11.3% -1.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 152,520 12.2% 2.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 86,724 6.9% 7.3%
Built in 2020 or later 17,511 1.4% 77.2%
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.

San Diego County occupancy rates

Out of the 1,171,278 occupied housing units in San Diego County, 54.6% are owner-occupied, while 45.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,171,278
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
532,140
Owner occupied
639,138
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 532,140 45.4% 0.9%
Owner occupied 639,138 54.6% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
6.3%
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.

San Diego County housing costs

Housing costs in San Diego County come to a median of $2,351 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,246.

Median housing costs per month
$2,351/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 San Diego County
$2,246/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 San Diego County

San Diego County education at a glance

About 25.2% of the population in San Diego County went to high school, while 22.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 24.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 138,497 5.3% 0.4%
High school diploma 656,728 25.2% -0.0%
College diploma 577,654 22.2% -2.5%
Associate degree 202,368 7.8% -1.7%
Bachelor's degree 631,677 24.3% 2.2%
Graduate degree 394,533 15.2% 4.5%
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 San Diego County

How much people earn in San Diego County

The average annual household income in San Diego County was $141,250 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $106,268, reflecting a +3.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in San Diego County
$141,250/year
3.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in San Diego County
$106,268/year
3.9% year-over-year change

San Diego County income by age

In San Diego County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $116,896. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $123,231 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,554, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $78,324 in earnings. Overall, 89.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,554 3.4%
25 - 44 $116,896 4.4%
45 - 64 $123,231 3.9%
Over 65 $78,324 3.1%
Above poverty level
2,839,123
Below poverty level
324,243
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,839,123 89.8% 0.2%
Below poverty level 324,243 10.2% -0.6%

Employment in San Diego County

Workforce and job types in San Diego County

The job market in San Diego County is powered by 1,586,162 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.3% run their own businesses, 65.5% are employed by private companies, and 14.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,586,162
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
1,326,986
Blue collar
259,176
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,326,986 83.7% 1.0%
Blue collar 259,176 16.3% -1.4%
Employer type
Self employees
11.3%
Private companies
65.5%
Governmental workers
14.7%
Not for profit companies
8.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 179,767 11.3% -0.4%
Private companies 1,038,739 65.5% 0.3%
Governmental workers 233,569 14.7% 1.8%
Not for profit companies 134,087 8.4% 2.7%
Unemployment rate
6.1%
-1.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in San Diego County stands at 6.1%, 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 San Diego County

How people get around in San Diego County

In San Diego County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 73.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
-1.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,209,600 73.9% -1.9%
Taxicab 2,389 0.2% 5.6%
Bus or trolleybus 22,544 1.4% -13.5%
Subway or elevated 1,395 0.1% N/A
Railroad 1,453 0.1% -4.4%
Ferryboat 376 0% -16.1%
Motorcycle 6,827 0.4% 1.4%
Bicycle 7,655 0.5% -4.5%
Walk 52,801 3.2% 5.2%
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 San Diego County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
91901 18,197 6,344 $114,167 $141,988
91902 17,698 6,127 $122,524 $162,495
91905 1,683 561 $77,886 $85,719
91906 3,325 1,176 $62,500 $96,779
91910 77,123 26,230 $90,222 $112,189
91911 85,542 25,440 $82,350 $107,209
91913 57,721 17,428 $129,337 $154,122
91914 16,877 4,820 $190,786 $197,734
91915 35,322 10,677 $139,503 $151,804
91916 1,710 605 $103,438 $134,229

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FAQs about San Diego County demographics 

What is the total population of San Diego County?

San Diego County has a total population of 3,288,774 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in San Diego County?

The gender ratio in San Diego County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (1,662,238 residents)
  • 49.5% females (1,626,536 residents)

What is the median age in San Diego County?

The median age in San Diego County is 37.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in San Diego County?

The age distribution in San Diego County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.3% (570,116 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.3% (437,273 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.2% (993,598 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.7% (780,053 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.4% (507,734 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of San Diego County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of San Diego County is as follows:
  • White: 48.4% (1,592,607 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.6% (152,969 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.1% (35,126 residents)
  • Asian: 12.4% (406,933 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (13,548 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 21.3% (699,565 residents)
  • Other: 11.8% (388,026 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 75.1% of the population in San Diego County.

How many housing units are there in San Diego County?

There are 1,250,641 housing units in San Diego 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 San Diego County and what is the average household size?

San Diego County has a total of 1,171,278 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in San Diego County?

San Diego County has a median household income of $106,268, representing a +3.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.9% in San Diego County, with a workforce of 1,586,162 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.7% (1,326,986 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.3% (259,176 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.3% (179,767 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.5% (1,038,739 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.7% (233,569 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.4% (134,087 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