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

Total population
103,105
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$153,504/yr
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
42,641
0.5% year-over-year change

San Mateo population

How many people live in San Mateo

San Mateo is home to 103,105 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of San Mateo locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
103,105
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
51,086
Female
50.4%
52,019
Value Percent YoY change
Male 51,086 49.6% -0.6%
Female 52,019 50.4% -0.3%
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 Mateo is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.4% are children under 15, then 10.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 32.7% of the population, while another 23.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.4%
15 to 24
10.3%
25 to 44
32.7%
45 to 64
23.6%
Over 65
17%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 16,955 16.4% -1.4%
15 to 24 10,594 10.3% -0.3%
25 to 44 33,705 32.7% 0.7%
45 to 64 24,288 23.6% -4.0%
Over 65 17,563 17% 3.6%
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 Mateo, 62.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 18.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 18.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 37.9% of locals are Caucasian, 1.4% are African American and 28.4% have Asian roots. Another 1.6% are Indigenous American, 1.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 13.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 15.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
62.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
18.8%
Non-citizens
18.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 64,609 62.7% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 19,401 18.8% -2.8%
Non-citizens 19,095 18.5% -1.2%
Racial breakdown
White
37.9%
Black or African American
1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.6%
Asian
28.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
1.4%
Two or more races
15.9%
Other
13.4%
Value Percent
White 39,112 37.9%
Black or African American 1,489 1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,703 1.6%
Asian 29,226 28.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,432 1.4%
Two or more races 16,365 15.9%
Other 13,778 13.4%

Households in San Mateo

A peek inside San Mateo households

San Mateo has 39,895 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 62.2% are families, while the remaining 37.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
39,895
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
15,084
Family households
24,811
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 15,084 37.8% 0.0%
Family households 24,811 62.2% 0.5%
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 Mateo

The housing landscape of San Mateo

San Mateo's housing consists of 42,641 units, with 41.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
42,641
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,748 41.6%
1 unit, attached 4,084 9.6%
2 units 923 2.2%
3 or 4 units 1,851 4.3%
5 to 9 units 3,429 8%
10 to 19 units 3,013 7.1%
20 to 49 units 4,410 10.3%
50 or more units 7,101 16.6%
Mobile home 12 0%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 70 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
439
87.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in San Mateo

In San Mateo, the median construction year is 1965. About 9.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,066 9.5% 0.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,431 12.7% -1.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,069 21.3% -1.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,703 13.4% -4.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,766 13.5% -2.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,841 11.4% 7.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,395 5.6% -7.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,220 5.2% 5.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,711 6.4% 10.8%
Built in 2020 or later 439 1% 87.6%
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 Mateo occupancy rates

Out of the 39,895 occupied housing units in San Mateo, 49.9% are owner-occupied, while 50.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
39,895
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
19,985
Owner occupied
19,910
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 19,985 50.1% 2.2%
Owner occupied 19,910 49.9% -1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
6.4%
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 Mateo housing costs

Housing costs in San Mateo come to a median of $3,192 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $3,077.

Median housing costs per month
$3,192/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 Mateo
$3,077/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 Mateo

San Mateo education at a glance

About 17.4% of the population in San Mateo went to high school, while 15% pursued college studies. Another 7% earned an associate degree and 30.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 24.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,939 6% -2.6%
High school diploma 14,439 17.4% -1.2%
College diploma 12,448 15% 0.1%
Associate degree 5,829 7% 3.0%
Bachelor's degree 25,029 30.2% -1.1%
Graduate degree 20,210 24.4% 0.7%
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 Mateo

How much people earn in San Mateo

The average annual household income in San Mateo was $212,670 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $153,504, reflecting a +0.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in San Mateo
$212,670/year
3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in San Mateo
$153,504/year
0.6% year-over-year change

San Mateo income by age

In San Mateo, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $201,951. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $165,696 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $79,791 in earnings. Overall, 91.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,750 -8.6%
25 - 44 $201,951 2.0%
45 - 64 $165,696 -0.5%
Over 65 $79,791 -2.3%
Above poverty level
92,773
Below poverty level
8,370
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 92,773 91.7% -0.5%
Below poverty level 8,370 8.3% 3.5%

Average renter income in San Mateo

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in San Mateo, their median household income was $127,025 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$127,025
Rent-to-income ratio
29.1%
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 Mateo

Workforce and job types in San Mateo

The job market in San Mateo is powered by 56,023 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11% run their own businesses, 72% are employed by private companies, and 9.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
56,023
-1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
49,179
Blue collar
6,844
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 49,179 87.8% -1.1%
Blue collar 6,844 12.2% -4.8%
Employer type
Self employees
11%
Private companies
72%
Governmental workers
9.7%
Not for profit companies
7.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,145 11% 2.1%
Private companies 40,308 72% -1.1%
Governmental workers 5,416 9.7% -7.8%
Not for profit companies 4,154 7.4% -2.2%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
5.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in San Mateo stands at 4.6%, 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 Mateo

How people get around in San Mateo

In San Mateo, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 64.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
-3.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 35,491 64.7% -2.6%
Taxicab 84 0.2% -9.7%
Bus or trolleybus 1,172 2.1% 11.3%
Subway or elevated 398 0.7% N/A
Railroad 1,078 2% -42.3%
Motorcycle 21 0% -65.6%
Bicycle 274 0.5% -31.3%
Walk 1,487 2.7% -8.9%
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 Mateo by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94401 35,295 13,026 $122,227 $166,758
94402 25,475 10,125 $172,522 $271,936
94403 43,276 16,414 $174,917 $226,610
94404 35,881 14,717 $192,332 $240,836

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FAQs about San Mateo demographics 

What is the total population of San Mateo?

San Mateo has a total population of 103,105 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 -0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in San Mateo?

The gender ratio in San Mateo is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (51,086 residents)
  • 50.4% females (52,019 residents)

What is the median age in San Mateo?

The median age in San Mateo is 38.3.

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

The age distribution in San Mateo is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.4% (16,955 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.3% (10,594 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 32.7% (33,705 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.6% (24,288 residents)
  • Over 65: 17% (17,563 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of San Mateo?

The racial and ethnic makeup of San Mateo is as follows:
  • White: 37.9% (39,112 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.4% (1,489 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.6% (1,703 residents)
  • Asian: 28.4% (29,226 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 1.4% (1,432 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.9% (16,365 residents)
  • Other: 13.4% (13,778 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 62.7% of the population in San Mateo.

How many housing units are there in San Mateo?

There are 42,641 housing units in San Mateo, 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 San Mateo and what is the average household size?

San Mateo has a total of 39,895 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in San Mateo?

San Mateo has a median household income of $153,504, representing a +0.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.4% in San Mateo, with a workforce of 56,023 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87.8% (49,179 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12.2% (6,844 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11% (6,145 residents)
  • Private companies: 72% (40,308 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.7% (5,416 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.4% (4,154 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