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

Total population
1,389,526
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$108,077/yr
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
568,668
1.6% year-over-year change

San Diego population

How many people live in San Diego

San Diego is home to 1,389,526 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.7% of San Diego locals are male, and 49.3% are female.

Total population
1,389,526
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.7%
704,209
Female
49.3%
685,317
Value Percent YoY change
Male 704,209 50.7% 0.2%
Female 685,317 49.3% 0.5%
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 San Diego is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 13.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 33.5% of the population, while another 22.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
13.8%
25 to 44
33.5%
45 to 64
22.7%
Over 65
14.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 213,949 15.4% -1.3%
15 to 24 191,504 13.8% 0.1%
25 to 44 465,828 33.5% 0.5%
45 to 64 315,113 22.7% -0.7%
Over 65 203,132 14.6% 3.5%
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 San Diego, 72.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 17% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 46.6% of locals are Caucasian, 5.6% are African American and 17.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.8% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 10.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 18.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
72.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
17%
Non-citizens
10.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,009,299 72.6% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 236,232 17% 1.6%
Non-citizens 143,995 10.4% 2.6%
Racial breakdown
White
46.6%
Black or African American
5.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
17.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
18.6%
Other
10.4%
Value Percent
White 647,607 46.6%
Black or African American 77,964 5.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 10,749 0.8%
Asian 244,686 17.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 5,930 0.4%
Two or more races 257,749 18.6%
Other 144,841 10.4%

Households in San Diego

A peek inside San Diego households

San Diego has 530,412 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 58.6% are families, while the remaining 41.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
530,412
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
219,439
Family households
310,973
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 219,439 41.4% 2.4%
Family households 310,973 58.6% 1.0%
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

The housing landscape of San Diego

San Diego's housing consists of 568,668 units, with 43.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.9% 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 1.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
568,668
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 245,168 43.1%
1 unit, attached 56,205 9.9%
2 units 12,254 2.2%
3 or 4 units 32,763 5.8%
5 to 9 units 55,189 9.7%
10 to 19 units 39,500 7%
20 to 49 units 37,059 6.5%
50 or more units 84,067 14.8%
Mobile home 6,046 1.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 417 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
8,257
91.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in San Diego

In San Diego, the median construction year is 1979. About 6.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.6% 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 36,238 6.4% -1.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 19,876 3.5% -3.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 60,451 10.6% -1.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 67,414 11.8% -1.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 114,030 20% 1.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 100,834 17.7% 1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 58,975 10.4% -0.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 59,531 10.5% 4.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 43,062 7.6% 7.7%
Built in 2020 or later 8,257 1.4% 91.1%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 530,412 occupied housing units in San Diego, 47.3% are owner-occupied, while 52.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
530,412
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
279,312
Owner occupied
251,100
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 279,312 52.7% 2.0%
Owner occupied 251,100 47.3% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
6.7%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in San Diego come to a median of $2,384 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,313.

Median housing costs per month
$2,384/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
$2,313/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

San Diego education at a glance

About 21.8% of the population in San Diego went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.1% earned an associate degree and 27.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 19% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 51,660 4.6% -0.1%
High school diploma 246,520 21.8% -0.2%
College diploma 228,755 20.2% -2.9%
Associate degree 79,965 7.1% -0.6%
Bachelor's degree 310,864 27.4% 2.5%
Graduate degree 215,680 19% 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 San Diego

How much people earn in San Diego

The average annual household income in San Diego was $144,973 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 $108,077, reflecting a +3.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in San Diego
$144,973/year
3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in San Diego
$108,077/year
3.6% year-over-year change

San Diego income by age

In San Diego, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $121,102. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $121,508 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,049, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $80,124 in earnings. Overall, 89% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,049 4.3%
25 - 44 $121,102 4.3%
45 - 64 $121,508 3.2%
Over 65 $80,124 3.4%
Above poverty level
1,185,444
Below poverty level
146,197
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,185,444 89% 0.5%
Below poverty level 146,197 11% -0.7%

Average renter income in San Diego

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in San Diego, their median household income was $75,291 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$75,291
Rent-to-income ratio
36.9%
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 San Diego

Workforce and job types in San Diego

The job market in San Diego is powered by 710,847 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.5% run their own businesses, 65.3% are employed by private companies, and 14.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
710,847
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
618,503
Blue collar
92,344
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 618,503 87% 1.2%
Blue collar 92,344 13% -1.5%
Employer type
Self employees
10.5%
Private companies
65.3%
Governmental workers
14.7%
Not for profit companies
9.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 74,556 10.5% -0.7%
Private companies 464,141 65.3% 0.6%
Governmental workers 104,724 14.7% 1.6%
Not for profit companies 67,426 9.5% 3.0%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
2.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in San Diego stands at 6%, 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

How people get around in San Diego

In San Diego, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 70.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
-1.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 513,885 70.3% -2.1%
Taxicab 1,473 0.2% 6.7%
Bus or trolleybus 14,318 2% -15.4%
Subway or elevated 911 0.1% N/A
Railroad 402 0.1% -5.4%
Ferryboat 190 0% -23.1%
Motorcycle 3,073 0.4% -6.3%
Bicycle 4,894 0.7% -6.2%
Walk 25,180 3.4% 1.4%
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 San Diego by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
92101 51,805 30,214 $91,566 $125,812
92102 38,901 14,620 $77,248 $103,626
92103 34,836 19,935 $102,626 $147,096
92104 47,410 23,661 $94,014 $120,938
92105 71,411 22,910 $68,563 $88,513
92106 21,651 7,647 $142,897 $187,288
92107 28,827 13,879 $113,117 $153,175
92108 26,790 14,010 $103,884 $123,856
92109 44,820 22,646 $122,128 $158,318
92110 30,902 12,339 $110,790 $127,361

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FAQs about San Diego demographics 

What is the total population of San Diego?

San Diego has a total population of 1,389,526 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 San Diego?

The gender ratio in San Diego is as follows:
  • 50.7% males (704,209 residents)
  • 49.3% females (685,317 residents)

What is the median age in San Diego?

The median age in San Diego is 36.2.

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

The age distribution in San Diego is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (213,949 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.8% (191,504 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 33.5% (465,828 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.7% (315,113 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.6% (203,132 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of San Diego?

The racial and ethnic makeup of San Diego is as follows:
  • White: 46.6% (647,607 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.6% (77,964 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (10,749 residents)
  • Asian: 17.6% (244,686 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (5,930 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 18.6% (257,749 residents)
  • Other: 10.4% (144,841 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 72.6% of the population in San Diego.

How many housing units are there in San Diego?

There are 568,668 housing units in San Diego, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

San Diego has a total of 530,412 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in San Diego?

San Diego has a median household income of $108,077, representing a +3.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94% in San Diego, with a workforce of 710,847 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87% (618,503 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13% (92,344 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.5% (74,556 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.3% (464,141 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.7% (104,724 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.5% (67,426 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