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

Total population
264,926
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$111,093/yr
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
106,977
0.3% year-over-year change

Santa Cruz County population

How many people live in Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County is home to 264,926 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Santa Cruz County locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
264,926
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
132,027
Female
50.2%
132,899
Value Percent YoY change
Male 132,027 49.8% -0.6%
Female 132,899 50.2% -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 Santa Cruz County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.8% are children under 15, then 17.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.8% of the population, while another 24.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.8%
15 to 24
17.6%
25 to 44
23.8%
45 to 64
24.7%
Over 65
19%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 39,265 14.8% -2.9%
15 to 24 46,758 17.6% 1.9%
25 to 44 63,190 23.8% -1.2%
45 to 64 65,438 24.7% -2.3%
Over 65 50,275 19% 3.1%
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 Cruz County, 80.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 60% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 4.9% have Asian roots. Another 1.2% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 17.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 15.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
80.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.4%
Non-citizens
10%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 213,781 80.7% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 24,771 9.4% -4.2%
Non-citizens 26,374 10% 4.6%
Racial breakdown
White
60%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
4.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
15.8%
Other
17.1%
Value Percent
White 159,010 60%
Black or African American 2,200 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,172 1.2%
Asian 12,961 4.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 442 0.2%
Two or more races 41,912 15.8%
Other 45,229 17.1%

Households in Santa Cruz County

A peek inside Santa Cruz County households

Santa Cruz County has 96,898 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 62.4% are families, while the remaining 37.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
96,898
0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
36,462
Family households
60,436
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 36,462 37.6% 2.1%
Family households 60,436 62.4% -1.2%
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 Cruz County

The housing landscape of Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County's housing consists of 106,977 units, with 63.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.5% 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 6.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
106,977
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 67,751 63.3%
1 unit, attached 9,114 8.5%
2 units 3,680 3.4%
3 or 4 units 5,299 5%
5 to 9 units 4,413 4.1%
10 to 19 units 2,411 2.2%
20 to 49 units 2,876 2.7%
50 or more units 4,114 3.8%
Mobile home 7,019 6.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 300 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
568
128.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Santa Cruz County

In Santa Cruz County, the median construction year is 1974. About 11.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 12,680 11.8% -1.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 7,331 6.8% -1.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 10,570 9.9% -1.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 14,669 13.7% -0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 22,561 21.1% 1.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 16,567 15.5% -2.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 8,981 8.4% -0.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8,827 8.2% 4.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 4,223 4% 9.0%
Built in 2020 or later 568 0.5% 128.1%
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 Cruz County occupancy rates

Out of the 96,898 occupied housing units in Santa Cruz County, 59.9% are owner-occupied, while 40.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
96,898
0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
38,819
Owner occupied
58,079
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 38,819 40.1% 0.1%
Owner occupied 58,079 59.9% -0.0%
Unoccupied housing units
9.4%
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.

Santa Cruz County housing costs

Housing costs in Santa Cruz County come to a median of $2,337 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,264.

Median housing costs per month
$2,337/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 Cruz County
$2,264/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 Cruz County

Santa Cruz County education at a glance

About 22.1% of the population in Santa Cruz County went to high school, while 25% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 22.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 13,342 6.2% 1.9%
High school diploma 47,779 22.1% -0.8%
College diploma 54,143 25% -1.1%
Associate degree 18,236 8.4% 1.2%
Bachelor's degree 49,331 22.8% 0.5%
Graduate degree 33,382 15.4% 1.2%
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 Santa Cruz County

How much people earn in Santa Cruz County

The average annual household income in Santa Cruz County was $156,439 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 $111,093, reflecting a +1.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Santa Cruz County
$156,439/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Santa Cruz County
$111,093/year
1.7% year-over-year change

Santa Cruz County income by age

In Santa Cruz County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $122,632. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $137,890 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,991, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $85,666 in earnings. Overall, 88.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,991 14.4%
25 - 44 $122,632 1.7%
45 - 64 $137,890 2.8%
Over 65 $85,666 1.1%
Above poverty level
222,334
Below poverty level
29,159
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 222,334 88.4% -1.1%
Below poverty level 29,159 11.6% 3.3%

Employment in Santa Cruz County

Workforce and job types in Santa Cruz County

The job market in Santa Cruz County is powered by 130,957 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.7% run their own businesses, 59.9% are employed by private companies, and 16.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
130,957
-1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
107,173
Blue collar
23,784
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 107,173 81.8% -0.9%
Blue collar 23,784 18.2% -5.0%
Employer type
Self employees
13.7%
Private companies
59.9%
Governmental workers
16.7%
Not for profit companies
9.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 17,915 13.7% -2.5%
Private companies 78,406 59.9% -2.5%
Governmental workers 21,926 16.7% 0.2%
Not for profit companies 12,710 9.7% 1.1%
Unemployment rate
6.1%
7.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Santa Cruz County stands at 6.1%, 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 Cruz County

How people get around in Santa Cruz County

In Santa Cruz County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 70.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.2% 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
-3.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 88,458 70.3% -4.1%
Taxicab 50 0% -40.5%
Bus or trolleybus 2,233 1.8% -2.5%
Subway or elevated 67 0% N/A
Railroad 79 0.1% 61.2%
Motorcycle 511 0.4% -9.1%
Bicycle 2,741 2.2% 3.7%
Walk 5,280 4.2% -3.2%
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 Cruz County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
95003 24,951 9,905 $148,412 $193,251
95005 7,277 2,878 $104,375 $151,027
95006 7,561 3,222 $102,167 $138,103
95007 396 186 $91,352 $106,875
95010 8,707 4,242 $105,236 $148,269
95017 616 205 $102,625 $128,387
95018 6,594 2,799 $129,464 $170,901
95019 5,933 1,805 $67,474 $86,850
95033 9,600 3,766 $189,118 $269,605
95041 623 309 $96,898 $130,495

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FAQs about Santa Cruz County demographics 

What is the total population of Santa Cruz County?

Santa Cruz County has a total population of 264,926 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 Santa Cruz County?

The gender ratio in Santa Cruz County is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (132,027 residents)
  • 50.2% females (132,899 residents)

What is the median age in Santa Cruz County?

The median age in Santa Cruz County is 39.8.

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

The age distribution in Santa Cruz County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.8% (39,265 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17.6% (46,758 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.8% (63,190 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.7% (65,438 residents)
  • Over 65: 19% (50,275 residents)

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

The racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Cruz County is as follows:
  • White: 60% (159,010 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (2,200 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (3,172 residents)
  • Asian: 4.9% (12,961 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (442 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.8% (41,912 residents)
  • Other: 17.1% (45,229 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 80.7% of the population in Santa Cruz County.

How many housing units are there in Santa Cruz County?

There are 106,977 housing units in Santa Cruz County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Santa Cruz County has a total of 96,898 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Santa Cruz County?

Santa Cruz County has a median household income of $111,093, representing a +1.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.9% in Santa Cruz County, with a workforce of 130,957 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.8% (107,173 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.2% (23,784 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.7% (17,915 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.9% (78,406 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.7% (21,926 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.7% (12,710 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