San Luis Obispo, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
48,491
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$73,685/yr
10.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
22,250
2.1% year-over-year change

San Luis Obispo population

How many people live in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo is home to 48,491 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.7% of San Luis Obispo locals are male, and 51.3% are female.

Total population
48,491
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.7%
23,602
Female
51.3%
24,889
Value Percent YoY change
Male 23,602 48.7% -1.6%
Female 24,889 51.3% 3.5%
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 Luis Obispo is 26, with the population distributed as follows: about 8.5% are children under 15, then 39.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22% of the population, while another 15.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
26.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
8.5%
15 to 24
39.2%
25 to 44
22%
45 to 64
15.4%
Over 65
14.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,128 8.5% -4.2%
15 to 24 18,982 39.2% 1.8%
25 to 44 10,680 22% -1.4%
45 to 64 7,491 15.4% -2.4%
Over 65 7,210 14.9% 9.7%
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 Luis Obispo, 90% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 73.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1.2% are African American and 5.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 13.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.6%
Non-citizens
3.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 43,665 90% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,205 6.6% 10.5%
Non-citizens 1,621 3.3% -2.8%
Racial breakdown
White
73.4%
Black or African American
1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
5.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
13.6%
Other
5.4%
Value Percent
White 35,567 73.4%
Black or African American 601 1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 265 0.6%
Asian 2,756 5.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 52 0.1%
Two or more races 6,620 13.6%
Other 2,630 5.4%

Households in San Luis Obispo

A peek inside San Luis Obispo households

San Luis Obispo has 20,441 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 40.7% are families, while the remaining 59.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
20,441
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
12,114
Family households
8,327
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 12,114 59.3% 2.4%
Family households 8,327 40.7% 1.9%
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 Luis Obispo

The housing landscape of San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo's housing consists of 22,250 units, with 46.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.5% 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 5.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
22,250
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,267 46.1%
1 unit, attached 2,116 9.5%
2 units 886 4%
3 or 4 units 2,220 10%
5 to 9 units 1,449 6.5%
10 to 19 units 1,593 7.2%
20 to 49 units 1,585 7.1%
50 or more units 906 4.1%
Mobile home 1,228 5.5%
Homes built since 2020
511
45.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in San Luis Obispo

In San Luis Obispo, the median construction year is 1977. About 9.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,044 9.2% -9.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,053 4.7% -4.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,128 9.6% 7.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,764 12.4% 6.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,741 21.3% 3.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,293 14.8% 1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,024 9.1% -13.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,381 10.7% 13.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,311 5.9% 3.1%
Built in 2020 or later 511 2.3% 45.2%
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 Luis Obispo occupancy rates

Out of the 20,441 occupied housing units in San Luis Obispo, 40.2% are owner-occupied, while 59.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
20,441
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
12,213
Owner occupied
8,228
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 12,213 59.8% 0.0%
Owner occupied 8,228 40.2% 5.6%
Unoccupied housing units
8.1%
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.

San Luis Obispo housing costs

Housing costs in San Luis Obispo come to a median of $2,006 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,965.

Median housing costs per month
$2,006/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 Luis Obispo
$1,965/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 Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo education at a glance

About 16.2% of the population in San Luis Obispo went to high school, while 37.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 23.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 384 0.9% -17.2%
High school diploma 7,044 16.2% 3.4%
College diploma 16,202 37.2% -1.4%
Associate degree 3,275 7.5% 16.7%
Bachelor's degree 10,356 23.8% -0.0%
Graduate degree 6,239 14.3% 3.9%
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 Luis Obispo

How much people earn in San Luis Obispo

The average annual household income in San Luis Obispo was $115,549 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $73,685, reflecting a +10.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in San Luis Obispo
$115,549/year
5.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in San Luis Obispo
$73,685/year
10.4% year-over-year change

San Luis Obispo income by age

In San Luis Obispo, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $113,859. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $130,306 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $24,275, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $74,409 in earnings. Overall, 69.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $24,275 3.4%
25 - 44 $113,859 5.9%
45 - 64 $130,306 5.3%
Over 65 $74,409 9.5%
Above poverty level
32,967
Below poverty level
14,461
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 32,967 69.5% 0.4%
Below poverty level 14,461 30.5% 2.2%

Average renter income in San Luis Obispo

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in San Luis Obispo, their median household income was $43,781 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 53.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$43,781
Rent-to-income ratio
53.9%
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 Luis Obispo

Workforce and job types in San Luis Obispo

The job market in San Luis Obispo is powered by 25,720 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 62.3% are employed by private companies, and 21.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
25,720
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
22,502
Blue collar
3,218
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 22,502 87.5% -1.3%
Blue collar 3,218 12.5% 7.0%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
62.3%
Governmental workers
21.5%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,361 9.2% -2.6%
Private companies 16,022 62.3% -0.5%
Governmental workers 5,532 21.5% -2.9%
Not for profit companies 1,805 7% 14.7%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
5.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in San Luis Obispo stands at 7%, 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 Luis Obispo

How people get around in San Luis Obispo

Commuting methods vary: 70.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.1% 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 17,615 70.6% -0.9%
Bus or trolleybus 246 1% -28.5%
Ferryboat 10 0% -23.1%
Motorcycle 43 0.2% -2.3%
Bicycle 1,133 4.5% -0.7%
Walk 1,532 6.1% -11.6%
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 Luis Obispo by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
93401 29,202 13,522 $96,824 $136,022
93405 25,002 8,883 $60,399 $101,198
93410 7,396 14 $0 $0

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FAQs about San Luis Obispo demographics 

What is the total population of San Luis Obispo?

San Luis Obispo has a total population of 48,491 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in San Luis Obispo?

The gender ratio in San Luis Obispo is as follows:
  • 48.7% males (23,602 residents)
  • 51.3% females (24,889 residents)

What is the median age in San Luis Obispo?

The median age in San Luis Obispo is 26.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in San Luis Obispo?

The age distribution in San Luis Obispo is as follows:
  • Under 15: 8.5% (4,128 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 39.2% (18,982 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22% (10,680 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 15.4% (7,491 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.9% (7,210 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of San Luis Obispo?

The racial and ethnic makeup of San Luis Obispo is as follows:
  • White: 73.4% (35,567 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.2% (601 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (265 residents)
  • Asian: 5.7% (2,756 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (52 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13.6% (6,620 residents)
  • Other: 5.4% (2,630 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90% of the population in San Luis Obispo.

How many housing units are there in San Luis Obispo?

There are 22,250 housing units in San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo and what is the average household size?

San Luis Obispo has a total of 20,441 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in San Luis Obispo?

San Luis Obispo has a median household income of $73,685, representing a +10.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93% in San Luis Obispo, with a workforce of 25,720 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87.5% (22,502 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12.5% (3,218 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (2,361 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.3% (16,022 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.5% (5,532 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (1,805 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