San Juan Capistrano, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
35,095
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$129,457/yr
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,071
2.1% year-over-year change

San Juan Capistrano population

How many people live in San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano is home to 35,095 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of San Juan Capistrano locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
35,095
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
17,428
Female
50.3%
17,667
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,428 49.7% 1.4%
Female 17,667 50.3% -0.8%
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 Juan Capistrano is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.6% are children under 15, then 12.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.9% of the population, while another 29.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.6%
15 to 24
12.7%
25 to 44
19.9%
45 to 64
29.3%
Over 65
21.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,827 16.6% -0.8%
15 to 24 4,444 12.7% 2.0%
25 to 44 6,977 19.9% -5.0%
45 to 64 10,286 29.3% -0.1%
Over 65 7,561 21.5% 6.1%
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 Juan Capistrano, 81.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 61.3% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 4.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 18.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.7%
Non-citizens
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 28,455 81.1% 1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,119 11.7% -0.7%
Non-citizens 2,521 7.2% -13.7%
Racial breakdown
White
61.3%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
4.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
18.8%
Other
13.7%
Value Percent
White 21,500 61.3%
Black or African American 146 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 447 1.3%
Asian 1,572 4.5%
Two or more races 6,607 18.8%
Other 4,823 13.7%

Households in San Juan Capistrano

A peek inside San Juan Capistrano households

San Juan Capistrano has 12,252 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 75.7% are families, while the remaining 24.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,252
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,982
Family households
9,270
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,982 24.3% -4.9%
Family households 9,270 75.7% 3.5%
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 Juan Capistrano

The housing landscape of San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano's housing consists of 13,071 units, with 56.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 20.2% 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 9.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,071
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,379 56.4%
1 unit, attached 2,640 20.2%
2 units 208 1.6%
3 or 4 units 538 4.1%
5 to 9 units 198 1.5%
10 to 19 units 166 1.3%
20 to 49 units 104 0.8%
50 or more units 542 4.2%
Mobile home 1,296 9.9%
Homes built since 2020
174
427.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in San Juan Capistrano

In San Juan Capistrano, the median construction year is 1979. About 1.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 178 1.4% 64.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 97 0.7% -14.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 350 2.7% 3.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,559 11.9% -11.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,704 36% 0.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,057 15.7% 1.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,888 14.4% 8.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,241 9.5% 1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 823 6.3% 7.6%
Built in 2020 or later 174 1.3% 427.3%
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 Juan Capistrano occupancy rates

Out of the 12,252 occupied housing units in San Juan Capistrano, 81% are owner-occupied, while 19% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,252
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,324
Owner occupied
9,928
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,324 19% -10.5%
Owner occupied 9,928 81% 4.5%
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 Juan Capistrano housing costs

Housing costs in San Juan Capistrano come to a median of $2,528 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,438.

Median housing costs per month
$2,528/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 Juan Capistrano
$2,438/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 Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano education at a glance

About 21.9% of the population in San Juan Capistrano went to high school, while 20.7% pursued college studies. Another 10.8% earned an associate degree and 25.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,630 5.9% -17.0%
High school diploma 6,079 21.9% 0.6%
College diploma 5,735 20.7% 0.2%
Associate degree 3,007 10.8% 13.8%
Bachelor's degree 7,078 25.6% 2.7%
Graduate degree 4,174 15.1% 0.1%
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 Juan Capistrano

How much people earn in San Juan Capistrano

The average annual household income in San Juan Capistrano was $180,367 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $129,457, reflecting a +1.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in San Juan Capistrano
$180,367/year
4.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in San Juan Capistrano
$129,457/year
1.2% year-over-year change

San Juan Capistrano income by age

In San Juan Capistrano, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $137,300. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $161,354 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $89,464, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $91,285 in earnings. Overall, 91.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $89,464 -10.5%
25 - 44 $137,300 -2.7%
45 - 64 $161,354 4.7%
Over 65 $91,285 -1.4%
Above poverty level
31,795
Below poverty level
2,896
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 31,795 91.6% -0.3%
Below poverty level 2,896 8.4% 14.5%

Average renter income in San Juan Capistrano

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in San Juan Capistrano, their median household income was $92,684 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$92,684
Rent-to-income ratio
31.6%
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 Juan Capistrano

Workforce and job types in San Juan Capistrano

The job market in San Juan Capistrano is powered by 17,642 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 88.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 22.2% run their own businesses, 62.7% are employed by private companies, and 10.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,642
-0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
15,559
Blue collar
2,083
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 15,559 88.2% 1.4%
Blue collar 2,083 11.8% -12.8%
Employer type
Self employees
22.2%
Private companies
62.7%
Governmental workers
10.6%
Not for profit companies
4.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,917 22.2% 8.9%
Private companies 11,055 62.7% -4.8%
Governmental workers 1,871 10.6% 8.0%
Not for profit companies 799 4.5% 1.5%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
-8.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in San Juan Capistrano stands at 3.6%, 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 Juan Capistrano

How people get around in San Juan Capistrano

Commuting methods vary: 76.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.9% 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 13,290 76.4% -1.4%
Taxicab 4 0% -55.6%
Bus or trolleybus 47 0.3% -60.5%
Railroad 37 0.2% 117.7%
Motorcycle 24 0.1% -20.0%
Bicycle 95 0.6% -20.2%
Walk 683 3.9% 4.1%
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 Juan Capistrano by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
92675 35,095 12,252 $129,457 $180,367

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FAQs about San Juan Capistrano demographics 

What is the total population of San Juan Capistrano?

San Juan Capistrano has a total population of 35,095 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 Juan Capistrano?

The gender ratio in San Juan Capistrano is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (17,428 residents)
  • 50.3% females (17,667 residents)

What is the median age in San Juan Capistrano?

The median age in San Juan Capistrano is 46.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in San Juan Capistrano?

The age distribution in San Juan Capistrano is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.6% (5,827 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.7% (4,444 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.9% (6,977 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.3% (10,286 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.5% (7,561 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of San Juan Capistrano?

The racial and ethnic makeup of San Juan Capistrano is as follows:
  • White: 61.3% (21,500 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (146 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (447 residents)
  • Asian: 4.5% (1,572 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 18.8% (6,607 residents)
  • Other: 13.7% (4,823 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.1% of the population in San Juan Capistrano.

How many housing units are there in San Juan Capistrano?

There are 13,071 housing units in San Juan Capistrano, 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 San Juan Capistrano and what is the average household size?

San Juan Capistrano has a total of 12,252 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in San Juan Capistrano?

San Juan Capistrano has a median household income of $129,457, representing a +1.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in San Juan Capistrano, with a workforce of 17,642 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88.2% (15,559 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11.8% (2,083 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 22.2% (3,917 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.7% (11,055 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.6% (1,871 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.5% (799 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