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

Total population
64,305
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$136,578/yr
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
23,515
1.4% year-over-year change

South San Francisco population

How many people live in South San Francisco

South San Francisco is home to 64,305 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of South San Francisco locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
64,305
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
32,237
Female
49.9%
32,068
Value Percent YoY change
Male 32,237 50.1% -1.3%
Female 32,068 49.9% 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 South San Francisco is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.2% are children under 15, then 10.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.9% of the population, while another 28.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.2%
15 to 24
10.5%
25 to 44
27.9%
45 to 64
28.2%
Over 65
19.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,103 14.2% -5.2%
15 to 24 6,751 10.5% 3.3%
25 to 44 17,969 27.9% -3.1%
45 to 64 18,162 28.2% -1.3%
Over 65 12,320 19.2% 8.2%
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 South San Francisco, 57.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 30.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 23.7% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 42.3% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.9% are Pacific Islanders, while 15.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 15.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
57.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
30.4%
Non-citizens
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 37,113 57.7% -0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 19,515 30.4% 2.4%
Non-citizens 7,677 11.9% -7.7%
Racial breakdown
White
23.7%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
42.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.9%
Two or more races
15.1%
Other
15.5%
Value Percent
White 15,244 23.7%
Black or African American 999 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 623 1%
Asian 27,174 42.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 557 0.9%
Two or more races 9,719 15.1%
Other 9,989 15.5%

Households in South San Francisco

A peek inside South San Francisco households

South San Francisco has 21,838 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.5% are families, while the remaining 28.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
21,838
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
6,233
Family households
15,605
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,233 28.5% -0.5%
Family households 15,605 71.5% -0.0%
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 South San Francisco

The housing landscape of South San Francisco

South San Francisco's housing consists of 23,515 units, with 58.5% 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. 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
23,515
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,756 58.5%
1 unit, attached 2,262 9.6%
2 units 422 1.8%
3 or 4 units 977 4.2%
5 to 9 units 878 3.7%
10 to 19 units 934 4%
20 to 49 units 1,403 6%
50 or more units 2,530 10.8%
Mobile home 273 1.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 80 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
491
220.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South San Francisco

In South San Francisco, the median construction year is 1965. About 6.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,620 6.9% -10.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,727 11.6% -3.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,725 24.4% -2.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,456 14.7% 5.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,892 12.3% -3.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,862 7.9% -5.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,619 6.9% 18.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,947 8.3% -0.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,176 5% 21.6%
Built in 2020 or later 491 2.1% 220.9%
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.

South San Francisco occupancy rates

Out of the 21,838 occupied housing units in South San Francisco, 59% are owner-occupied, while 41% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
21,838
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,960
Owner occupied
12,878
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,960 41% 4.6%
Owner occupied 12,878 59% -3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
7.1%
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.

South San Francisco housing costs

Housing costs in South San Francisco come to a median of $2,759 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,802.

Median housing costs per month
$2,759/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 South San Francisco
$2,802/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 South San Francisco

South San Francisco education at a glance

About 25.4% of the population in South San Francisco went to high school, while 18% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 27.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,476 8.4% 10.0%
High school diploma 13,496 25.4% -1.6%
College diploma 9,556 18% -4.5%
Associate degree 4,798 9% -5.6%
Bachelor's degree 14,755 27.7% 2.8%
Graduate degree 6,149 11.6% 1.4%
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 South San Francisco

How much people earn in South San Francisco

The average annual household income in South San Francisco was $177,602 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $136,578, reflecting a +0.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South San Francisco
$177,602/year
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in South San Francisco
$136,578/year
0.5% year-over-year change

South San Francisco income by age

In South 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 $179,214. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $143,459 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $89,781, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $92,037 in earnings. Overall, 93.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $89,781 3.6%
25 - 44 $179,214 2.4%
45 - 64 $143,459 0.9%
Over 65 $92,037 9.3%
Above poverty level
59,241
Below poverty level
4,318
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 59,241 93.2% 0.0%
Below poverty level 4,318 6.8% -5.3%

Average renter income in South San Francisco

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in South San Francisco, their median household income was $99,651 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$99,651
Rent-to-income ratio
33.7%
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 South San Francisco

Workforce and job types in South San Francisco

The job market in South San Francisco is powered by 35,544 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 65.9% are employed by private companies, and 14.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
35,544
-1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
29,173
Blue collar
6,371
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 29,173 82.1% -1.6%
Blue collar 6,371 17.9% -3.5%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
65.9%
Governmental workers
14.1%
Not for profit companies
11.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,128 8.8% -2.6%
Private companies 23,433 65.9% -4.0%
Governmental workers 5,013 14.1% 0.4%
Not for profit companies 3,970 11.2% 9.5%
Unemployment rate
2.8%
11.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South San Francisco stands at 2.8%, 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 South San Francisco

How people get around in South San Francisco

In South San Francisco, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 72.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% 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
-5.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 25,112 72.8% 0.7%
Taxicab 142 0.4% 129.0%
Bus or trolleybus 925 2.7% -25.0%
Subway or elevated 620 1.8% N/A
Railroad 148 0.4% -57.5%
Motorcycle 60 0.2% 17.6%
Bicycle 276 0.8% 2.6%
Walk 648 1.9% -3.4%
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 South San Francisco by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94080 64,761 21,966 $136,733 $177,797

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about South San Francisco demographics 

What is the total population of South San Francisco?

South San Francisco has a total population of 64,305 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 South San Francisco?

The gender ratio in South San Francisco is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (32,237 residents)
  • 49.9% females (32,068 residents)

What is the median age in South San Francisco?

The median age in South San Francisco is 43.2.

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

The age distribution in South San Francisco is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.2% (9,103 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.5% (6,751 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.9% (17,969 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.2% (18,162 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.2% (12,320 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South San Francisco?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South San Francisco is as follows:
  • White: 23.7% (15,244 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (999 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (623 residents)
  • Asian: 42.3% (27,174 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.9% (557 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.1% (9,719 residents)
  • Other: 15.5% (9,989 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 57.7% of the population in South San Francisco.

How many housing units are there in South San Francisco?

There are 23,515 housing units in South San Francisco, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

South San Francisco has a total of 21,838 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in South San Francisco?

South San Francisco has a median household income of $136,578, representing a +0.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.2% in South San Francisco, with a workforce of 35,544 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.1% (29,173 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.9% (6,371 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (3,128 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.9% (23,433 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.1% (5,013 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.2% (3,970 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