Santa Clara County, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,902,047
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$164,281/yr
2.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
698,837
0.7% year-over-year change

Santa Clara County population

How many people live in Santa Clara County

Santa Clara County is home to 1,902,047 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51% of Santa Clara County locals are male, and 49% are female.

Total population
1,902,047
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51%
969,393
Female
49%
932,654
Value Percent YoY change
Male 969,393 51% -0.1%
Female 932,654 49% -0.1%
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 Santa Clara County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.7% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.7% of the population, while another 25.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.7%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
30.7%
45 to 64
25.3%
Over 65
14.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 317,731 16.7% -2.7%
15 to 24 237,050 12.5% -0.7%
25 to 44 583,210 30.7% 0.8%
45 to 64 482,046 25.3% -0.8%
Over 65 282,010 14.8% 3.0%
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 Santa Clara County, 56.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 23.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 19.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 29.9% of locals are Caucasian, 2.3% are African American and 40.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.9% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 11% 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
56.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
23.3%
Non-citizens
19.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,081,932 56.9% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 442,498 23.3% -0.1%
Non-citizens 377,617 19.8% 2.7%
Racial breakdown
White
29.9%
Black or African American
2.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
40.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
15.1%
Other
11%
Value Percent
White 568,135 29.9%
Black or African American 43,917 2.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 16,500 0.9%
Asian 770,311 40.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 7,470 0.4%
Two or more races 286,941 15.1%
Other 208,773 11%

Households in Santa Clara County

A peek inside Santa Clara County households

Santa Clara County has 659,353 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 69.7% are families, while the remaining 30.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
659,353
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
199,541
Family households
459,812
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 199,541 30.3% 1.8%
Family households 459,812 69.7% 0.3%
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 Santa Clara County

The housing landscape of Santa Clara County

Santa Clara County's housing consists of 698,837 units, with 50.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11% 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 2.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
698,837
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 354,223 50.7%
1 unit, attached 77,021 11%
2 units 9,100 1.3%
3 or 4 units 38,782 5.6%
5 to 9 units 34,379 4.9%
10 to 19 units 32,528 4.6%
20 to 49 units 35,196 5%
50 or more units 97,781 14%
Mobile home 19,230 2.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 597 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
10,632
74.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Santa Clara County

In Santa Clara County, the median construction year is 1975. About 4.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 32,741 4.7% 0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 22,825 3.3% -3.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 95,964 13.7% -0.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 123,992 17.7% 0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 141,772 20.3% -1.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 79,292 11.4% -1.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 62,135 8.9% -3.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 65,691 9.4% 3.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 63,793 9.1% 5.4%
Built in 2020 or later 10,632 1.5% 74.9%
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.

Santa Clara County occupancy rates

Out of the 659,353 occupied housing units in Santa Clara County, 55.1% are owner-occupied, while 44.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
659,353
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
296,206
Owner occupied
363,147
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 296,206 44.9% 1.2%
Owner occupied 363,147 55.1% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
5.6%
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.

Santa Clara County housing costs

Housing costs in Santa Clara County come to a median of $3,017 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,857.

Median housing costs per month
$3,017/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 Santa Clara County
$2,857/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 Santa Clara County

Santa Clara County education at a glance

About 19.6% of the population in Santa Clara County went to high school, while 15.6% pursued college studies. Another 6.2% earned an associate degree and 27.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 25.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 88,581 5.9% 0.8%
High school diploma 295,888 19.6% 0.1%
College diploma 236,412 15.6% -3.1%
Associate degree 93,927 6.2% 0.0%
Bachelor's degree 411,084 27.2% 0.8%
Graduate degree 386,079 25.5% 2.9%
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 Santa Clara County

How much people earn in Santa Clara County

The average annual household income in Santa Clara County was $227,007 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $164,281, reflecting a +2.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Santa Clara County
$227,007/year
3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Santa Clara County
$164,281/year
2.9% year-over-year change

Santa Clara County income by age

In Santa Clara County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $201,243. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $189,173 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $81,050, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $92,440 in earnings. Overall, 92.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $81,050 -4.9%
25 - 44 $201,243 4.3%
45 - 64 $189,173 3.6%
Over 65 $92,440 1.6%
Above poverty level
1,720,216
Below poverty level
132,092
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,720,216 92.9% -0.3%
Below poverty level 132,092 7.1% 3.4%

Employment in Santa Clara County

Workforce and job types in Santa Clara County

The job market in Santa Clara County is powered by 999,346 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.3% run their own businesses, 74.4% are employed by private companies, and 10% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
999,346
0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
870,967
Blue collar
128,379
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 870,967 87.2% 0.3%
Blue collar 128,379 12.8% -1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8.3%
Private companies
74.4%
Governmental workers
10%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 82,848 8.3% 1.2%
Private companies 743,965 74.4% -0.8%
Governmental workers 100,389 10% 1.6%
Not for profit companies 72,144 7.2% 5.0%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
9.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Santa Clara County stands at 4.9%, 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 Santa Clara County

How people get around in Santa Clara County

In Santa Clara County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 68.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% 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
-3.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 668,502 68.9% -2.6%
Taxicab 3,077 0.3% 34.8%
Bus or trolleybus 13,157 1.4% -10.1%
Subway or elevated 1,705 0.2% N/A
Railroad 4,890 0.5% -20.4%
Ferryboat 50 0% -23.1%
Motorcycle 1,456 0.2% -5.6%
Bicycle 13,114 1.4% 0.8%
Walk 20,313 2.1% 0.2%
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 Santa Clara County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94301 17,508 7,167 $242,006 $342,324
94022 20,027 7,275 $250,001 $413,758
94024 23,051 7,938 $250,001 $428,921
94040 35,632 15,754 $187,781 $265,418
94041 16,050 6,960 $178,558 $242,642
94043 33,176 13,369 $203,298 $261,450
94085 24,024 9,631 $192,417 $259,833
94086 49,746 20,832 $177,054 $233,401
94087 57,767 20,612 $207,742 $293,349
94089 22,699 9,218 $158,304 $211,279

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FAQs about Santa Clara County demographics 

What is the total population of Santa Clara County?

Santa Clara County has a total population of 1,902,047 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Santa Clara County?

The gender ratio in Santa Clara County is as follows:
  • 51% males (969,393 residents)
  • 49% females (932,654 residents)

What is the median age in Santa Clara County?

The median age in Santa Clara County is 38.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Santa Clara County?

The age distribution in Santa Clara County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.7% (317,731 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (237,050 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.7% (583,210 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.3% (482,046 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.8% (282,010 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Clara County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Clara County is as follows:
  • White: 29.9% (568,135 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.3% (43,917 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (16,500 residents)
  • Asian: 40.5% (770,311 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (7,470 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.1% (286,941 residents)
  • Other: 11% (208,773 residents)

What percentage of the population in Santa Clara County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 56.9% of the population in Santa Clara County.

How many housing units are there in Santa Clara County?

There are 698,837 housing units in Santa Clara County, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Santa Clara County and what is the average household size?

Santa Clara County has a total of 659,353 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Santa Clara County?

Santa Clara County has a median household income of $164,281, representing a +2.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Santa Clara County?

The employment rate is 95.1% in Santa Clara County, with a workforce of 999,346 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87.2% (870,967 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12.8% (128,379 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.3% (82,848 residents)
  • Private companies: 74.4% (743,965 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10% (100,389 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (72,144 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