Santa Rosa, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
177,090
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$99,060/yr
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
71,382
0.6% year-over-year change

Santa Rosa population

How many people live in Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa is home to 177,090 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Santa Rosa locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
177,090
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
86,353
Female
51.2%
90,737
Value Percent YoY change
Male 86,353 48.8% 0.2%
Female 90,737 51.2% -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 Rosa is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.6% of the population, while another 25.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
27.6%
45 to 64
25.4%
Over 65
19%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 28,745 16.2% -3.6%
15 to 24 20,886 11.8% -0.5%
25 to 44 48,808 27.6% -0.4%
45 to 64 45,001 25.4% 1.3%
Over 65 33,650 19% 2.0%
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 Rosa, 77.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 52.9% of locals are Caucasian, 2% are African American and 6.5% have Asian roots. Another 1.5% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 21.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 15.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
77.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.4%
Non-citizens
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 137,936 77.9% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 18,499 10.4% 2.7%
Non-citizens 20,655 11.7% 0.9%
Racial breakdown
White
52.9%
Black or African American
2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.5%
Asian
6.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
15.2%
Other
21.4%
Value Percent
White 93,720 52.9%
Black or African American 3,627 2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,659 1.5%
Asian 11,465 6.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 770 0.4%
Two or more races 26,952 15.2%
Other 37,897 21.4%

Households in Santa Rosa

A peek inside Santa Rosa households

Santa Rosa has 68,321 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 62.3% are families, while the remaining 37.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
68,321
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
25,757
Family households
42,564
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 25,757 37.7% 0.2%
Family households 42,564 62.3% 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 Santa Rosa

The housing landscape of Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa's housing consists of 71,382 units, with 57.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.2% 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 3.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
71,382
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 41,336 57.9%
1 unit, attached 7,989 11.2%
2 units 2,280 3.2%
3 or 4 units 4,032 5.6%
5 to 9 units 3,352 4.7%
10 to 19 units 3,060 4.3%
20 to 49 units 2,283 3.2%
50 or more units 4,129 5.8%
Mobile home 2,763 3.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 158 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
1,325
78.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Santa Rosa

In Santa Rosa, the median construction year is 1980. About 5.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,635 5.1% 5.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,128 4.4% 0.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,555 7.8% -2.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 8,516 11.9% 1.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 14,826 20.8% -0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 12,271 17.2% -3.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 8,302 11.6% -6.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8,965 12.6% 2.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 4,859 6.8% 10.9%
Built in 2020 or later 1,325 1.9% 78.6%
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.

Santa Rosa occupancy rates

Out of the 68,321 occupied housing units in Santa Rosa, 56.7% are owner-occupied, while 43.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
68,321
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
29,562
Owner occupied
38,759
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 29,562 43.3% -1.2%
Owner occupied 38,759 56.7% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
4.3%
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 Rosa housing costs

Housing costs in Santa Rosa come to a median of $2,199 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,152.

Median housing costs per month
$2,199/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 Rosa
$2,152/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 Rosa

Santa Rosa education at a glance

About 27.5% of the population in Santa Rosa went to high school, while 22.5% pursued college studies. Another 9.3% earned an associate degree and 20.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 11,367 8% 5.1%
High school diploma 38,981 27.5% 0.2%
College diploma 31,796 22.5% -2.6%
Associate degree 13,197 9.3% 1.2%
Bachelor's degree 28,779 20.3% 1.4%
Graduate degree 17,417 12.3% 1.8%
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 Rosa

How much people earn in Santa Rosa

The average annual household income in Santa Rosa was $133,152 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $99,060, reflecting a +1.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Santa Rosa
$133,152/year
2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Santa Rosa
$99,060/year
1.7% year-over-year change

Santa Rosa income by age

In Santa Rosa, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $103,206. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $122,060 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,087, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $72,919 in earnings. Overall, 90.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,087 4.6%
25 - 44 $103,206 -0.0%
45 - 64 $122,060 2.7%
Over 65 $72,919 1.5%
Above poverty level
156,598
Below poverty level
17,001
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 156,598 90.2% -0.2%
Below poverty level 17,001 9.8% 2.5%

Average renter income in Santa Rosa

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Santa Rosa, their median household income was $69,172 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$69,172
Rent-to-income ratio
37.3%
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 Santa Rosa

Workforce and job types in Santa Rosa

The job market in Santa Rosa is powered by 90,595 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.7% run their own businesses, 65.3% are employed by private companies, and 13.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
90,595
-0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
71,619
Blue collar
18,976
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 71,619 79% -0.2%
Blue collar 18,976 21% -2.4%
Employer type
Self employees
10.7%
Private companies
65.3%
Governmental workers
13.3%
Not for profit companies
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 9,722 10.7% -4.9%
Private companies 59,126 65.3% -1.3%
Governmental workers 12,051 13.3% 4.5%
Not for profit companies 9,696 10.7% 1.7%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
16.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Santa Rosa stands at 6.3%, 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 Rosa

How people get around in Santa Rosa

In Santa Rosa, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 82.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% 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
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 72,891 82.8% -2.5%
Taxicab 122 0.1% 52.5%
Bus or trolleybus 874 1% 9.9%
Subway or elevated 93 0.1% N/A
Railroad 133 0.2% -13.6%
Motorcycle 129 0.2% 48.3%
Bicycle 599 0.7% 6.2%
Walk 2,149 2.4% 6.4%
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 Rosa by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
95401 36,861 13,840 $93,615 $119,921
95403 45,806 16,823 $98,191 $124,114
95404 37,011 15,478 $105,437 $157,805
95405 22,744 9,429 $118,299 $155,909
95407 42,036 13,168 $82,863 $104,319
95409 25,616 11,444 $107,867 $144,016

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FAQs about Santa Rosa demographics 

What is the total population of Santa Rosa?

Santa Rosa has a total population of 177,090 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 Rosa?

The gender ratio in Santa Rosa is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (86,353 residents)
  • 51.2% females (90,737 residents)

What is the median age in Santa Rosa?

The median age in Santa Rosa is 41.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Santa Rosa?

The age distribution in Santa Rosa is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (28,745 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (20,886 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.6% (48,808 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.4% (45,001 residents)
  • Over 65: 19% (33,650 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Rosa?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Rosa is as follows:
  • White: 52.9% (93,720 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2% (3,627 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.5% (2,659 residents)
  • Asian: 6.5% (11,465 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (770 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.2% (26,952 residents)
  • Other: 21.4% (37,897 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 77.9% of the population in Santa Rosa.

How many housing units are there in Santa Rosa?

There are 71,382 housing units in Santa Rosa, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Santa Rosa has a total of 68,321 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Santa Rosa?

Santa Rosa has a median household income of $99,060, 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 Rosa?

The employment rate is 93.7% in Santa Rosa, with a workforce of 90,595 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79% (71,619 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21% (18,976 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.7% (9,722 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.3% (59,126 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.3% (12,051 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.7% (9,696 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