Sunnyvale, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
154,236
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$186,170/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
63,239
2.3% year-over-year change

Sunnyvale population

How many people live in Sunnyvale

Sunnyvale is home to 154,236 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.4% of Sunnyvale locals are male, and 47.6% are female.

Total population
154,236
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.4%
80,853
Female
47.6%
73,383
Value Percent YoY change
Male 80,853 52.4% 1.1%
Female 73,383 47.6% -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 Sunnyvale is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 39.7% of the population, while another 21.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
9%
25 to 44
39.7%
45 to 64
21.5%
Over 65
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 25,917 16.8% -4.0%
15 to 24 13,959 9% -0.7%
25 to 44 61,163 39.7% 2.1%
45 to 64 33,212 21.5% -1.0%
Over 65 19,985 13% 5.4%
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 Sunnyvale, 48.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 20.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 31% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 28.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 49.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 9.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
48.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
20.8%
Non-citizens
31%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 74,403 48.2% -1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 32,036 20.8% 4.6%
Non-citizens 47,797 31% 1.1%
Racial breakdown
White
28.4%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
49.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
9.9%
Other
9.5%
Value Percent
White 43,766 28.4%
Black or African American 2,498 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 902 0.6%
Asian 76,489 49.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 635 0.4%
Two or more races 15,291 9.9%
Other 14,655 9.5%

Households in Sunnyvale

A peek inside Sunnyvale households

Sunnyvale has 60,293 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 61.4% are families, while the remaining 38.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
60,293
2.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
23,257
Family households
37,036
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 23,257 38.6% 6.4%
Family households 37,036 61.4% 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 Sunnyvale

The housing landscape of Sunnyvale

Sunnyvale's housing consists of 63,239 units, with 36% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.8% 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 5.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
63,239
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 22,741 36%
1 unit, attached 6,182 9.8%
2 units 932 1.5%
3 or 4 units 5,295 8.4%
5 to 9 units 5,116 8.1%
10 to 19 units 4,246 6.7%
20 to 49 units 5,018 7.9%
50 or more units 10,100 16%
Mobile home 3,600 5.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,135
127.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sunnyvale

In Sunnyvale, the median construction year is 1976. About 1.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 950 1.5% 4.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,649 2.6% 9.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 11,388 18% -1.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 11,378 18% 3.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 10,962 17.3% -2.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7,752 12.3% 6.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,405 10.1% -6.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,303 8.4% 10.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,317 10% 2.3%
Built in 2020 or later 1,135 1.8% 127.9%
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.

Sunnyvale occupancy rates

Out of the 60,293 occupied housing units in Sunnyvale, 43.8% are owner-occupied, while 56.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
60,293
2.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
33,905
Owner occupied
26,388
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 33,905 56.2% 2.7%
Owner occupied 26,388 43.8% 2.4%
Unoccupied housing units
4.7%
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.

Sunnyvale housing costs

Housing costs in Sunnyvale come to a median of $3,017 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $3,039.

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 Sunnyvale
$3,039/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 Sunnyvale

Sunnyvale education at a glance

About 13.5% of the population in Sunnyvale went to high school, while 11.5% pursued college studies. Another 5% earned an associate degree and 30.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 36.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,837 3.1% 3.2%
High school diploma 16,770 13.5% 5.3%
College diploma 14,284 11.5% -2.5%
Associate degree 6,175 5% -4.2%
Bachelor's degree 37,518 30.2% 1.2%
Graduate degree 45,605 36.7% 2.2%
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 Sunnyvale

How much people earn in Sunnyvale

The average annual household income in Sunnyvale was $254,735 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $186,170, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sunnyvale
$254,735/year
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sunnyvale
$186,170/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Sunnyvale income by age

In Sunnyvale, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $230,787. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $196,900 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $140,156, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $91,808 in earnings. Overall, 94.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $140,156 1.0%
25 - 44 $230,787 5.3%
45 - 64 $196,900 2.4%
Over 65 $91,808 -0.1%
Above poverty level
142,420
Below poverty level
8,865
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 142,420 94.1% 0.5%
Below poverty level 8,865 5.9% 4.7%

Average renter income in Sunnyvale

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sunnyvale, their median household income was $160,781 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 22.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$160,781
Rent-to-income ratio
22.7%
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 Sunnyvale

Workforce and job types in Sunnyvale

The job market in Sunnyvale is powered by 87,854 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 91% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.7% run their own businesses, 81.7% are employed by private companies, and 6.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
87,854
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
79,918
Blue collar
7,936
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 79,918 91% 0.8%
Blue collar 7,936 9% 4.6%
Employer type
Self employees
5.7%
Private companies
81.7%
Governmental workers
6.6%
Not for profit companies
6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,043 5.7% -1.0%
Private companies 71,780 81.7% 1.6%
Governmental workers 5,773 6.6% 3.1%
Not for profit companies 5,258 6% -5.9%
Unemployment rate
4.5%
13.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sunnyvale stands at 4.5%, 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 Sunnyvale

How people get around in Sunnyvale

In Sunnyvale, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 62% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
23 min
-0.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 53,377 62% -2.5%
Taxicab 486 0.6% 33.9%
Bus or trolleybus 2,114 2.5% 0.6%
Subway or elevated 281 0.3% N/A
Railroad 912 1.1% -1.9%
Ferryboat 8 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 134 0.2% -33.0%
Bicycle 1,244 1.4% -2.0%
Walk 1,391 1.6% 15.3%
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 Sunnyvale by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
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 Sunnyvale demographics 

What is the total population of Sunnyvale?

Sunnyvale has a total population of 154,236 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sunnyvale?

The gender ratio in Sunnyvale is as follows:
  • 52.4% males (80,853 residents)
  • 47.6% females (73,383 residents)

What is the median age in Sunnyvale?

The median age in Sunnyvale is 35.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sunnyvale?

The age distribution in Sunnyvale is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (25,917 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9% (13,959 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 39.7% (61,163 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.5% (33,212 residents)
  • Over 65: 13% (19,985 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sunnyvale?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sunnyvale is as follows:
  • White: 28.4% (43,766 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (2,498 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (902 residents)
  • Asian: 49.6% (76,489 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (635 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.9% (15,291 residents)
  • Other: 9.5% (14,655 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 48.2% of the population in Sunnyvale.

How many housing units are there in Sunnyvale?

There are 63,239 housing units in Sunnyvale, reflecting a +2.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sunnyvale has a total of 60,293 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sunnyvale?

Sunnyvale has a median household income of $186,170, 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 Sunnyvale?

The employment rate is 95.5% in Sunnyvale, with a workforce of 87,854 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 91% (79,918 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 9% (7,936 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.7% (5,043 residents)
  • Private companies: 81.7% (71,780 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 6.6% (5,773 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6% (5,258 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