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

Total population
830,235
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$140,970/yr
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
414,602
0.7% year-over-year change

San Francisco population

How many people live in San Francisco

San Francisco is home to 830,235 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.3% of San Francisco locals are male, and 48.7% are female.

Total population
830,235
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.3%
426,199
Female
48.7%
404,036
Value Percent YoY change
Male 426,199 51.3% -0.8%
Female 404,036 48.7% -0.6%
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 San Francisco is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.5% are children under 15, then 8.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 37% of the population, while another 25.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
40
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.5%
15 to 24
8.8%
25 to 44
37%
45 to 64
25.1%
Over 65
17.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 95,445 11.5% -1.6%
15 to 24 73,032 8.8% 4.2%
25 to 44 306,841 37% -2.4%
45 to 64 208,407 25.1% -1.3%
Over 65 146,510 17.6% 2.0%
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 Francisco, 63.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 23.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 39.1% of locals are Caucasian, 5% are African American and 35.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
63.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
23.6%
Non-citizens
12.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 528,426 63.6% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 196,058 23.6% -1.6%
Non-citizens 105,751 12.7% -0.8%
Racial breakdown
White
39.1%
Black or African American
5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
35.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
11.9%
Other
7.8%
Value Percent
White 324,342 39.1%
Black or African American 41,333 5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 6,059 0.7%
Asian 292,167 35.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2,928 0.4%
Two or more races 98,528 11.9%
Other 64,878 7.8%

Households in San Francisco

A peek inside San Francisco households

San Francisco has 363,970 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.3% are families, while the remaining 53.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
363,970
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
195,469
Family households
168,501
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 195,469 53.7% 1.3%
Family households 168,501 46.3% -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 Francisco

The housing landscape of San Francisco

San Francisco's housing consists of 414,602 units, with 18% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 12.4% 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
414,602
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 74,473 18%
1 unit, attached 51,606 12.4%
2 units 37,696 9.1%
3 or 4 units 45,784 11%
5 to 9 units 38,235 9.2%
10 to 19 units 38,343 9.2%
20 to 49 units 44,168 10.6%
50 or more units 83,337 20.1%
Mobile home 424 0.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 536 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
4,527
56.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in San Francisco

In San Francisco, the median construction year is 1946. About 45.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 187,447 45.2% 0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 34,830 8.4% -2.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 31,976 7.7% -1.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 32,967 8% -1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 29,818 7.2% 2.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 22,004 5.3% 1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 16,016 3.9% -2.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 26,421 6.4% -0.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 28,596 6.9% 8.8%
Built in 2020 or later 4,527 1.1% 56.3%
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.

San Francisco occupancy rates

Out of the 363,970 occupied housing units in San Francisco, 38.2% are owner-occupied, while 61.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
363,970
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
224,913
Owner occupied
139,057
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 224,913 61.8% 0.8%
Owner occupied 139,057 38.2% -0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
12.2%
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 Francisco housing costs

Housing costs in San Francisco come to a median of $2,689 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,476.

Median housing costs per month
$2,689/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 Francisco
$2,476/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 Francisco

San Francisco education at a glance

About 16.3% of the population in San Francisco went to high school, while 13.2% pursued college studies. Another 5.2% earned an associate degree and 35.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 23.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 46,538 6.5% -0.7%
High school diploma 116,868 16.3% -1.0%
College diploma 94,651 13.2% -1.9%
Associate degree 37,227 5.2% 0.1%
Bachelor's degree 251,600 35.1% -0.8%
Graduate degree 169,843 23.7% 0.3%
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 Francisco

How much people earn in San Francisco

The average annual household income in San Francisco was $206,854 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $140,970, reflecting a -0.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in San Francisco
$206,854/year
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in San Francisco
$140,970/year
-0.3% year-over-year change

San Francisco income by age

In San Francisco, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $197,409. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $142,534 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $91,603, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $67,096 in earnings. Overall, 88.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $91,603 -1.2%
25 - 44 $197,409 -1.1%
45 - 64 $142,534 4.4%
Over 65 $67,096 -0.1%
Above poverty level
719,476
Below poverty level
90,750
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 719,476 88.8% -1.3%
Below poverty level 90,750 11.2% 4.6%

Average renter income in San Francisco

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in San Francisco, their median household income was $113,478 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 26.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$113,478
Rent-to-income ratio
26.2%
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 Francisco

Workforce and job types in San Francisco

The job market in San Francisco is powered by 476,356 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 91.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 8.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.4% run their own businesses, 66.6% are employed by private companies, and 12.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
476,356
-1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
436,750
Blue collar
39,606
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 436,750 91.7% -1.8%
Blue collar 39,606 8.3% -1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
10.4%
Private companies
66.6%
Governmental workers
12.9%
Not for profit companies
10%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 49,699 10.4% -2.6%
Private companies 317,514 66.6% -3.0%
Governmental workers 61,290 12.9% 2.2%
Not for profit companies 47,853 10% 3.0%
Unemployment rate
6.1%
6.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in San Francisco 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 Francisco

How people get around in San Francisco

In San Francisco, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 34.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 9.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
-2.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 161,186 34.6% -1.9%
Taxicab 3,262 0.7% -12.0%
Bus or trolleybus 58,624 12.6% -12.7%
Subway or elevated 18,528 4% N/A
Railroad 4,354 0.9% -20.1%
Ferryboat 169 0% 23.4%
Motorcycle 2,015 0.4% -22.9%
Bicycle 15,399 3.3% -1.3%
Walk 43,623 9.4% -7.7%
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 Francisco by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94102 35,976 19,935 $60,431 $110,418
94103 34,964 17,952 $116,438 $162,996
94104 498 260 $0 $157,448
94105 13,861 8,300 $225,000 $326,503
94107 31,823 16,451 $182,897 $236,221
94108 11,305 6,471 $65,388 $115,916
94109 54,553 31,491 $106,018 $161,031
94110 66,865 27,208 $158,351 $231,366
94111 4,579 2,432 $152,697 $207,171
94112 79,277 23,225 $135,119 $183,335

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FAQs about San Francisco demographics 

What is the total population of San Francisco?

San Francisco has a total population of 830,235 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in San Francisco?

The gender ratio in San Francisco is as follows:
  • 51.3% males (426,199 residents)
  • 48.7% females (404,036 residents)

What is the median age in San Francisco?

The median age in San Francisco is 40.

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

The age distribution in San Francisco is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.5% (95,445 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.8% (73,032 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 37% (306,841 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.1% (208,407 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.6% (146,510 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of San Francisco?

The racial and ethnic makeup of San Francisco is as follows:
  • White: 39.1% (324,342 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5% (41,333 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (6,059 residents)
  • Asian: 35.2% (292,167 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (2,928 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.9% (98,528 residents)
  • Other: 7.8% (64,878 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 63.6% of the population in San Francisco.

How many housing units are there in San Francisco?

There are 414,602 housing units in San Francisco, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

San Francisco has a total of 363,970 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in San Francisco?

San Francisco has a median household income of $140,970, representing a -0.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.9% in San Francisco, with a workforce of 476,356 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 91.7% (436,750 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 8.3% (39,606 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.4% (49,699 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.6% (317,514 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.9% (61,290 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10% (47,853 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