Pacifica, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
37,261
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$160,523/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,665
0.5% year-over-year change

Pacifica population

How many people live in Pacifica

Pacifica is home to 37,261 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Pacifica locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
37,261
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
18,645
Female
50%
18,616
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,645 50% 0.1%
Female 18,616 50% -1.5%
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 Pacifica is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.5% are children under 15, then 9.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.2% of the population, while another 29.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.5%
15 to 24
9.8%
25 to 44
26.2%
45 to 64
29.1%
Over 65
20.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,392 14.5% -2.8%
15 to 24 3,645 9.8% 1.4%
25 to 44 9,774 26.2% -1.3%
45 to 64 10,838 29.1% -0.2%
Over 65 7,612 20.4% -0.1%
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 Pacifica, 75.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 19.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 52% of locals are Caucasian, 1.2% are African American and 22.2% have Asian roots. Another 1.2% are Indigenous American, 1.8% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 16.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
75.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
19.2%
Non-citizens
5.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 28,111 75.4% -1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 7,141 19.2% -0.6%
Non-citizens 2,009 5.4% 8.6%
Racial breakdown
White
52%
Black or African American
1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
22.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
1.8%
Two or more races
16.5%
Other
5.1%
Value Percent
White 19,377 52%
Black or African American 447 1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 439 1.2%
Asian 8,286 22.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 666 1.8%
Two or more races 6,157 16.5%
Other 1,889 5.1%

Households in Pacifica

A peek inside Pacifica households

Pacifica has 13,915 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.3% are families, while the remaining 31.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,915
-0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,411
Family households
9,504
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,411 31.7% 4.6%
Family households 9,504 68.3% -2.5%
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 Pacifica

The housing landscape of Pacifica

Pacifica's housing consists of 14,665 units, with 72.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.6% 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 1.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,665
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,625 72.4%
1 unit, attached 965 6.6%
2 units 182 1.2%
3 or 4 units 589 4%
5 to 9 units 663 4.5%
10 to 19 units 462 3.2%
20 to 49 units 506 3.4%
50 or more units 499 3.4%
Mobile home 174 1.2%
Homes built since 2020
42
-6.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pacifica

In Pacifica, the median construction year is 1966. About 2.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 377 2.6% -2.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 676 4.6% -1.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,022 27.4% 1.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,966 27% -2.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,026 20.6% 9.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,242 8.5% 4.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 553 3.8% -25.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 520 3.6% -6.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 241 1.6% 2.1%
Built in 2020 or later 42 0.3% -6.7%
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.

Pacifica occupancy rates

Out of the 13,915 occupied housing units in Pacifica, 67.7% are owner-occupied, while 32.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,915
-0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,496
Owner occupied
9,419
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,496 32.3% 2.2%
Owner occupied 9,419 67.7% -1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
5.1%
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.

Pacifica housing costs

Housing costs in Pacifica come to a median of $3,051 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $3,098.

Median housing costs per month
$3,051/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 Pacifica
$3,098/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 Pacifica

Pacifica education at a glance

About 20.8% of the population in Pacifica went to high school, while 21% pursued college studies. Another 10.1% earned an associate degree and 28.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 646 2.1% 11.8%
High school diploma 6,333 20.8% 1.2%
College diploma 6,413 21% -5.5%
Associate degree 3,070 10.1% 3.0%
Bachelor's degree 8,697 28.5% -2.5%
Graduate degree 5,320 17.4% 3.6%
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 Pacifica

How much people earn in Pacifica

The average annual household income in Pacifica was $194,828 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $160,523, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pacifica
$194,828/year
4.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pacifica
$160,523/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Pacifica income by age

In Pacifica, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $183,374. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $190,357 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $162,794, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $105,808 in earnings. Overall, 94.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $162,794 147.0%
25 - 44 $183,374 -0.6%
45 - 64 $190,357 2.5%
Over 65 $105,808 2.5%
Above poverty level
34,710
Below poverty level
2,143
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 34,710 94.2% 0.2%
Below poverty level 2,143 5.8% -6.2%

Average renter income in Pacifica

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Pacifica, their median household income was $122,821 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$122,821
Rent-to-income ratio
30.3%
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 Pacifica

Workforce and job types in Pacifica

The job market in Pacifica is powered by 20,326 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 86.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11% run their own businesses, 63.6% are employed by private companies, and 16.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
20,326
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
17,585
Blue collar
2,741
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 17,585 86.5% 1.0%
Blue collar 2,741 13.5% 5.2%
Employer type
Self employees
11%
Private companies
63.6%
Governmental workers
16.9%
Not for profit companies
8.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,239 11% 18.1%
Private companies 12,922 63.6% 0.7%
Governmental workers 3,431 16.9% -3.1%
Not for profit companies 1,734 8.5% -0.2%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
20.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Pacifica stands at 3.9%, 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 Pacifica

How people get around in Pacifica

In Pacifica, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 69.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
-3.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,746 69.1% -0.6%
Taxicab 97 0.5% -5.8%
Bus or trolleybus 370 1.9% -7.5%
Subway or elevated 306 1.5% N/A
Railroad 72 0.4% 5.9%
Motorcycle 127 0.6% 144.2%
Bicycle 48 0.2% 23.1%
Walk 238 1.2% 17.2%
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 Pacifica by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94044 37,274 13,928 $160,408 $194,709

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Pacifica demographics 

What is the total population of Pacifica?

Pacifica has a total population of 37,261 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 Pacifica?

The gender ratio in Pacifica is as follows:
  • 50% males (18,645 residents)
  • 50% females (18,616 residents)

What is the median age in Pacifica?

The median age in Pacifica is 44.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Pacifica?

The age distribution in Pacifica is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.5% (5,392 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.8% (3,645 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.2% (9,774 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.1% (10,838 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.4% (7,612 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pacifica?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pacifica is as follows:
  • White: 52% (19,377 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.2% (447 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (439 residents)
  • Asian: 22.2% (8,286 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 1.8% (666 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.5% (6,157 residents)
  • Other: 5.1% (1,889 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 75.4% of the population in Pacifica.

How many housing units are there in Pacifica?

There are 14,665 housing units in Pacifica, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Pacifica has a total of 13,915 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pacifica?

Pacifica has a median household income of $160,523, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Pacifica?

The employment rate is 96.1% in Pacifica, with a workforce of 20,326 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.5% (17,585 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.5% (2,741 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11% (2,239 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.6% (12,922 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.9% (3,431 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.5% (1,734 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