Palo Alto, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
67,237
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$231,101/yr
4.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
29,241
0.5% year-over-year change

Palo Alto population

How many people live in Palo Alto

Palo Alto is home to 67,237 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Palo Alto locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
67,237
0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
32,679
Female
51.4%
34,558
Value Percent YoY change
Male 32,679 48.6% 0.2%
Female 34,558 51.4% -0.2%
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 Palo Alto is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.4% are children under 15, then 10.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.9% of the population, while another 28.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.4%
15 to 24
10.3%
25 to 44
23.9%
45 to 64
28.5%
Over 65
19.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 11,697 17.4% -0.6%
15 to 24 6,953 10.3% -4.7%
25 to 44 16,049 23.9% -1.7%
45 to 64 19,169 28.5% 1.7%
Over 65 13,369 19.9% 2.9%
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 Palo Alto, 60.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 23.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 16.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 45.7% of locals are Caucasian, 1.8% are African American and 38.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
60.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
23.4%
Non-citizens
16.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 40,402 60.1% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 15,769 23.4% -0.9%
Non-citizens 11,066 16.5% 5.3%
Racial breakdown
White
45.7%
Black or African American
1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
38.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
9.7%
Other
4%
Value Percent
White 30,746 45.7%
Black or African American 1,222 1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 341 0.5%
Asian 25,620 38.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 93 0.1%
Two or more races 6,545 9.7%
Other 2,670 4%

Households in Palo Alto

A peek inside Palo Alto households

Palo Alto has 26,021 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67.8% are families, while the remaining 32.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
26,021
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
8,393
Family households
17,628
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,393 32.2% 0.9%
Family households 17,628 67.8% -0.6%
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 Palo Alto

The housing landscape of Palo Alto

Palo Alto's housing consists of 29,241 units, with 57.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.2% 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 0.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
29,241
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 16,814 57.5%
1 unit, attached 1,812 6.2%
2 units 365 1.2%
3 or 4 units 1,441 4.9%
5 to 9 units 1,656 5.7%
10 to 19 units 1,470 5%
20 to 49 units 2,162 7.4%
50 or more units 3,372 11.5%
Mobile home 149 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
312
178.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Palo Alto

In Palo Alto, the median construction year is 1963. About 13.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.3% 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, 6.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,902 13.3% 3.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,420 8.3% 6.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 7,341 25.1% -1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,550 12.1% -5.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,257 11.1% -0.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,152 7.4% 0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,633 5.6% -1.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,751 9.4% -5.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,923 6.6% 10.3%
Built in 2020 or later 312 1.1% 178.6%
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.

Palo Alto occupancy rates

Out of the 26,021 occupied housing units in Palo Alto, 54.6% are owner-occupied, while 45.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
26,021
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
11,804
Owner occupied
14,217
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 11,804 45.4% -1.1%
Owner occupied 14,217 54.6% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
11.0%
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.

Palo Alto housing costs

Housing costs in Palo Alto come to a median of $3,694 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $3,484.

Median housing costs per month
$3,694/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 Palo Alto
$3,484/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 Palo Alto

Palo Alto education at a glance

About 8.4% of the population in Palo Alto went to high school, while 7.7% pursued college studies. Another 2.9% earned an associate degree and 27.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 51.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 987 1.9% 22.0%
High school diploma 4,403 8.4% -2.0%
College diploma 4,053 7.7% -7.6%
Associate degree 1,539 2.9% 5.8%
Bachelor's degree 14,493 27.7% 0.9%
Graduate degree 26,858 51.3% 0.6%
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 Palo Alto

How much people earn in Palo Alto

The average annual household income in Palo Alto was $315,665 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $231,101, reflecting a +4.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Palo Alto
$315,665/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Palo Alto
$231,101/year
4.8% year-over-year change

Palo Alto income by age

In Palo Alto, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $250,001. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $250,001 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $87,917, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $135,313 in earnings. Overall, 94% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $87,917 -20.4%
25 - 44 $250,001 0.0%
45 - 64 $250,001 0.0%
Over 65 $135,313 4.0%
Above poverty level
62,236
Below poverty level
3,988
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 62,236 94% -0.3%
Below poverty level 3,988 6% 10.7%

Average renter income in Palo Alto

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Palo Alto, their median household income was $158,266 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 26.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$158,266
Rent-to-income ratio
26.4%
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 Palo Alto

Workforce and job types in Palo Alto

The job market in Palo Alto is powered by 32,617 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 95.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 4.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.2% run their own businesses, 65% are employed by private companies, and 8.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
32,617
-0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
31,261
Blue collar
1,356
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 31,261 95.8% -0.6%
Blue collar 1,356 4.2% -4.0%
Employer type
Self employees
10.2%
Private companies
65%
Governmental workers
8.4%
Not for profit companies
16.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,317 10.2% -5.4%
Private companies 21,218 65% -1.9%
Governmental workers 2,757 8.4% 5.5%
Not for profit companies 5,325 16.3% 3.8%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
6.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto

How people get around in Palo Alto

In Palo Alto, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 48.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
-6.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 15,734 48.7% -4.3%
Taxicab 46 0.1% -41.8%
Bus or trolleybus 332 1% -14.7%
Subway or elevated 62 0.2% N/A
Railroad 229 0.7% -57.7%
Motorcycle 25 0.1% 733.3%
Bicycle 2,553 7.9% 14.6%
Walk 1,489 4.6% 5.9%
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 Palo Alto by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94301 17,508 7,167 $242,006 $342,324
94303 46,879 14,466 $151,609 $230,694
94304 5,000 2,218 $154,141 $254,369
94306 27,183 10,640 $210,000 $287,065

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FAQs about Palo Alto demographics 

What is the total population of Palo Alto?

Palo Alto has a total population of 67,237 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 +0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Palo Alto?

The gender ratio in Palo Alto is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (32,679 residents)
  • 51.4% females (34,558 residents)

What is the median age in Palo Alto?

The median age in Palo Alto is 43.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Palo Alto?

The age distribution in Palo Alto is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.4% (11,697 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.3% (6,953 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.9% (16,049 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.5% (19,169 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.9% (13,369 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Palo Alto?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Palo Alto is as follows:
  • White: 45.7% (30,746 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.8% (1,222 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (341 residents)
  • Asian: 38.1% (25,620 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (93 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.7% (6,545 residents)
  • Other: 4% (2,670 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 60.1% of the population in Palo Alto.

How many housing units are there in Palo Alto?

There are 29,241 housing units in Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto and what is the average household size?

Palo Alto has a total of 26,021 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Palo Alto?

Palo Alto has a median household income of $231,101, representing a +4.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Palo Alto?

The employment rate is 96.1% in Palo Alto, with a workforce of 32,617 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 95.8% (31,261 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 4.2% (1,356 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.2% (3,317 residents)
  • Private companies: 65% (21,218 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.4% (2,757 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 16.3% (5,325 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