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

Total population
26,258
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$88,622/yr
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,755
0.8% year-over-year change

Live Oak population

How many people live in Live Oak

Live Oak is home to 26,258 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Live Oak locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
26,258
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
12,760
Female
51.4%
13,498
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,760 48.6% 3.0%
Female 13,498 51.4% -1.8%
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 Live Oak is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 16% are children under 15, then 15% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.6% of the population, while another 24.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
16%
15 to 24
15%
25 to 44
25.6%
45 to 64
24.9%
Over 65
18.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,190 16% -2.9%
15 to 24 3,945 15% 12.8%
25 to 44 6,730 25.6% -3.1%
45 to 64 6,529 24.9% 3.1%
Over 65 4,864 18.5% -3.5%
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 Live Oak, 79% of the population are US-born citizens, while 12.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 49.3% of locals are Caucasian, 1.4% are African American and 10.9% have Asian roots. Another 1.4% are Indigenous American, 1.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 18% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 17.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
79%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
12.1%
Non-citizens
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 20,734 79% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,183 12.1% -1.6%
Non-citizens 2,341 8.9% 6.6%
Racial breakdown
White
49.3%
Black or African American
1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
10.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
1.2%
Two or more races
17.7%
Other
18%
Value Percent
White 12,952 49.3%
Black or African American 377 1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 369 1.4%
Asian 2,861 10.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 308 1.2%
Two or more races 4,655 17.7%
Other 4,736 18%

Households in Live Oak

A peek inside Live Oak households

Live Oak has 9,280 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 63.6% are families, while the remaining 36.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,280
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,374
Family households
5,906
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,374 36.4% 1.0%
Family households 5,906 63.6% 0.1%
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 Live Oak

The housing landscape of Live Oak

Live Oak's housing consists of 9,755 units, with 56.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.5% 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 9.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,755
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,483 56.2%
1 unit, attached 1,020 10.5%
2 units 487 5%
3 or 4 units 597 6.1%
5 to 9 units 268 2.8%
10 to 19 units 181 1.9%
20 to 49 units 253 2.6%
50 or more units 499 5.1%
Mobile home 967 9.9%
Homes built since 2020
45
114.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Live Oak

In Live Oak, the median construction year is 1986. About 3.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.7% 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 363 3.7% -21.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 464 4.8% -6.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 552 5.7% -3.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,210 12.4% -7.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,033 20.8% 11.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,336 24% 10.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 888 9.1% -7.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,208 12.4% -0.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 656 6.7% -7.3%
Built in 2020 or later 45 0.5% 114.3%
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.

Live Oak occupancy rates

Out of the 9,280 occupied housing units in Live Oak, 61.7% are owner-occupied, while 38.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,280
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,551
Owner occupied
5,729
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,551 38.3% 2.7%
Owner occupied 5,729 61.7% -0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
4.9%
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.

Live Oak housing costs

Housing costs in Live Oak come to a median of $1,773 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,718.

Median housing costs per month
$1,773/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 Live Oak
$1,718/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 Live Oak

Live Oak education at a glance

About 30% of the population in Live Oak went to high school, while 23.1% pursued college studies. Another 9.3% earned an associate degree and 18.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,703 8.2% 7.8%
High school diploma 6,248 30% 1.6%
College diploma 4,811 23.1% -3.1%
Associate degree 1,929 9.3% -3.0%
Bachelor's degree 3,899 18.8% -2.0%
Graduate degree 2,205 10.6% 3.0%
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 Live Oak

How much people earn in Live Oak

The average annual household income in Live Oak was $118,663 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $88,622, reflecting a +1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Live Oak
$118,663/year
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Live Oak
$88,622/year
1.8% year-over-year change

Live Oak income by age

In Live Oak, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $105,592. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $117,236 overall. Overall, 85.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $105,592 0.0%
45 - 64 $117,236 -0.7%
Over 65 $59,954 6.0%
Above poverty level
22,002
Below poverty level
3,660
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 22,002 85.7% -0.3%
Below poverty level 3,660 14.3% 4.3%

Average renter income in Live Oak

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Live Oak, their median household income was $74,526 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$74,526
Rent-to-income ratio
27.7%
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 Live Oak

Workforce and job types in Live Oak

The job market in Live Oak is powered by 13,157 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.8% run their own businesses, 62.6% are employed by private companies, and 15% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,157
1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
9,881
Blue collar
3,276
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,881 75.1% 1.6%
Blue collar 3,276 24.9% 2.8%
Employer type
Self employees
12.8%
Private companies
62.6%
Governmental workers
15%
Not for profit companies
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,678 12.8% 1.0%
Private companies 8,234 62.6% 4.5%
Governmental workers 1,977 15% 3.9%
Not for profit companies 1,268 9.6% -13.6%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
-3.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Live Oak stands at 4.8%, 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 Live Oak

How people get around in Live Oak

In Live Oak, the average commute time is 50 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
50 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,821 91.2% 0.3%
Bus or trolleybus 175 1.6% 11.5%
Motorcycle 15 0.1% -25.0%
Bicycle 333 3.1% 67.3%
Walk 425 4% -14.0%
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.

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FAQs about Live Oak demographics 

What is the total population of Live Oak?

Live Oak has a total population of 26,258 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 Live Oak?

The gender ratio in Live Oak is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (12,760 residents)
  • 51.4% females (13,498 residents)

What is the median age in Live Oak?

The median age in Live Oak is 39.

What is the age distribution of the population in Live Oak?

The age distribution in Live Oak is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16% (4,190 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15% (3,945 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.6% (6,730 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.9% (6,529 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.5% (4,864 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Live Oak?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Live Oak is as follows:
  • White: 49.3% (12,952 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.4% (377 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (369 residents)
  • Asian: 10.9% (2,861 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 1.2% (308 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 17.7% (4,655 residents)
  • Other: 18% (4,736 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 79% of the population in Live Oak.

How many housing units are there in Live Oak?

There are 9,755 housing units in Live Oak, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Live Oak has a total of 9,280 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Live Oak?

Live Oak has a median household income of $88,622, representing a +1.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Live Oak?

The employment rate is 95.2% in Live Oak, with a workforce of 13,157 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.1% (9,881 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.9% (3,276 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.8% (1,678 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.6% (8,234 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15% (1,977 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.6% (1,268 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