Bernal Heights, San Francisco, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
30,229
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$146,735/yr
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,398
0.2% year-over-year change

Bernal Heights population

How many people live in Bernal Heights

Bernal Heights is home to 30,229 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.6% of Bernal Heights locals are male, and 47.4% are female.

Total population
30,229
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.6%
15,904
Female
47.4%
14,325
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,904 52.6% -1.2%
Female 14,325 47.4% 1.6%
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 Bernal Heights is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.3% are children under 15, then 7.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 38.3% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14% are 65 or older.

Median age
41
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.3%
15 to 24
7.8%
25 to 44
38.3%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
14%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,017 13.3% 0.3%
15 to 24 2,345 7.8% 8.5%
25 to 44 11,586 38.3% -0.9%
45 to 64 8,048 26.6% -0.9%
Over 65 4,233 14% 0.3%
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 Bernal Heights, 67.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 17.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 14.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 41.9% of locals are Caucasian, 3.9% are African American and 18.9% have Asian roots. Another 1.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 17.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 16.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
67.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
17.5%
Non-citizens
14.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 20,504 67.8% 0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,292 17.5% -6.8%
Non-citizens 4,433 14.7% 5.6%
Racial breakdown
White
41.9%
Black or African American
3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
18.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
16.4%
Other
17.5%
Value Percent
White 12,673 41.9%
Black or African American 1,169 3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 398 1.3%
Asian 5,722 18.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 32 0.1%
Two or more races 4,954 16.4%
Other 5,281 17.5%

Households in Bernal Heights

A peek inside Bernal Heights households

Bernal Heights has 11,916 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.6% are families, while the remaining 49.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,916
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,892
Family households
6,024
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,892 49.4% 2.4%
Family households 6,024 50.6% -0.8%
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 Bernal Heights

The housing landscape of Bernal Heights

Bernal Heights's housing consists of 13,398 units, with 21.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.8% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,398
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,867 21.4%
1 unit, attached 1,576 11.8%
2 units 2,109 15.7%
3 or 4 units 2,589 19.3%
5 to 9 units 1,548 11.6%
10 to 19 units 908 6.8%
20 to 49 units 1,083 8.1%
50 or more units 627 4.7%
Mobile home 8 0.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 84 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
196
94.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Bernal Heights

In Bernal Heights, the median construction year is 1940. About 61.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 8,245 61.5% -0.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 645 4.8% -5.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 775 5.8% 2.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 783 5.8% -5.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 747 5.6% -3.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 569 4.2% 2.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 389 2.9% 7.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 659 4.9% -2.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 391 2.9% 3.4%
Built in 2020 or later 196 1.5% 94.1%
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.

Bernal Heights occupancy rates

Out of the 11,916 occupied housing units in Bernal Heights, 43.8% are owner-occupied, while 56.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,916
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,703
Owner occupied
5,213
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,703 56.2% 0.8%
Owner occupied 5,213 43.8% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
11.1%
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.

Bernal Heights housing costs

Housing costs in Bernal Heights come to a median of $2,758 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,470.

Median housing costs per month
$2,758/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 Bernal Heights
$2,470/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 Bernal Heights

Bernal Heights education at a glance

About 17.2% of the population in Bernal Heights went to high school, while 12.5% pursued college studies. Another 4.7% earned an associate degree and 33.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 24% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,019 7.9% -7.8%
High school diploma 4,379 17.2% -0.6%
College diploma 3,190 12.5% 0.6%
Associate degree 1,196 4.7% 1.4%
Bachelor's degree 8,628 33.8% -0.0%
Graduate degree 6,122 24% 1.5%
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 Bernal Heights

How much people earn in Bernal Heights

The average annual household income in Bernal Heights was $220,216 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $146,735, reflecting a +3.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Bernal Heights
$220,216/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Bernal Heights
$146,735/year
3.6% year-over-year change

Bernal Heights income by age

In Bernal Heights, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $200,738. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $154,248 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $132,376, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $79,614 in earnings. Overall, 89.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $132,376 -3.4%
25 - 44 $200,738 4.8%
45 - 64 $154,248 8.4%
Over 65 $79,614 1.4%
Above poverty level
26,505
Below poverty level
3,193
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 26,505 89.2% -0.7%
Below poverty level 3,193 10.8% 5.3%

Employment in Bernal Heights

Workforce and job types in Bernal Heights

89.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 10.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.2% run their own businesses, 65.5% are employed by private companies, and 12% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
16,069
Blue collar
1,820
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 16,069 89.8% -0.8%
Blue collar 1,820 10.2% 4.5%
Employer type
Self employees
11.2%
Private companies
65.5%
Governmental workers
12%
Not for profit companies
11.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,000 11.2% -3.0%
Private companies 11,721 65.5% -1.0%
Governmental workers 2,137 12% -2.6%
Not for profit companies 2,031 11.4% 9.3%

Transportation in Bernal Heights

How people get around in Bernal Heights

In Bernal Heights, the average commute time is 13 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 59.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
13 min
-7.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,075 59.4% -3.6%
Taxicab 94 0.9% -4.1%
Bus or trolleybus 1,864 18.2% -4.0%
Railroad 180 1.8% -15.9%
Ferryboat 13 0.1% 0.0%
Motorcycle 107 1% 3.9%
Bicycle 1,073 10.5% -11.8%
Walk 819 8% -11.5%
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 Bernal Heights by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94110 66,865 27,208 $158,351 $231,366
94112 79,277 23,225 $135,119 $183,335

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FAQs about Bernal Heights demographics 

What is the total population of Bernal Heights?

Bernal Heights has a total population of 30,229 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 Bernal Heights?

The gender ratio in Bernal Heights is as follows:
  • 52.6% males (15,904 residents)
  • 47.4% females (14,325 residents)

What is the median age in Bernal Heights?

The median age in Bernal Heights is 41.

What is the age distribution of the population in Bernal Heights?

The age distribution in Bernal Heights is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.3% (4,017 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.8% (2,345 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 38.3% (11,586 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (8,048 residents)
  • Over 65: 14% (4,233 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Bernal Heights?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Bernal Heights is as follows:
  • White: 41.9% (12,673 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.9% (1,169 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (398 residents)
  • Asian: 18.9% (5,722 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (32 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.4% (4,954 residents)
  • Other: 17.5% (5,281 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 67.8% of the population in Bernal Heights.

How many housing units are there in Bernal Heights?

There are 13,398 housing units in Bernal Heights, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Bernal Heights and what is the average household size?

Bernal Heights has a total of 11,916 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Bernal Heights?

Bernal Heights has a median household income of $146,735, representing a +3.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Bernal Heights?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89.8% (16,069 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 10.2% (1,820 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.2% (2,000 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.5% (11,721 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12% (2,137 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.4% (2,031 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