Solvang, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,034
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$109,091/yr
-7.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,813
7.4% year-over-year change

Solvang population

How many people live in Solvang

Solvang is home to 6,034 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.2% of Solvang locals are male, and 54.8% are female.

Total population
6,034
0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.2%
2,729
Female
54.8%
3,305
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,729 45.2% -1.7%
Female 3,305 54.8% 1.5%
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 Solvang is 54, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.9% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18% of the population, while another 26.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 33.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
54.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.9%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
18%
45 to 64
26.8%
Over 65
33.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 719 11.9% -3.0%
15 to 24 600 9.9% -1.3%
25 to 44 1,083 18% -7.4%
45 to 64 1,615 26.8% 4.1%
Over 65 2,017 33.4% 2.6%
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 Solvang, 76.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 15.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 65% of locals are Caucasian, 2.7% are African American and 2.9% have Asian roots. Another 2% are Indigenous American, 0.9% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 19.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
15.1%
Non-citizens
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,591 76.1% -5.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 909 15.1% 16.8%
Non-citizens 534 8.8% 26.5%
Racial breakdown
White
65%
Black or African American
2.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2%
Asian
2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.9%
Two or more races
19.2%
Other
7.4%
Value Percent
White 3,923 65%
Black or African American 161 2.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 118 2%
Asian 176 2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 52 0.9%
Two or more races 1,159 19.2%
Other 445 7.4%

Households in Solvang

A peek inside Solvang households

Solvang has 2,726 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 52.3% are families, while the remaining 47.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,726
7.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,300
Family households
1,426
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,300 47.7% 27.6%
Family households 1,426 52.3% -5.4%
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 Solvang

The housing landscape of Solvang

Solvang's housing consists of 2,813 units, with 47.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.9% 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 9.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,813
7.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,325 47.1%
1 unit, attached 167 5.9%
2 units 71 2.5%
3 or 4 units 233 8.3%
5 to 9 units 167 5.9%
10 to 19 units 345 12.3%
20 to 49 units 170 6%
50 or more units 69 2.4%
Mobile home 266 9.5%
Homes built since 2020
12
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Solvang

In Solvang, the median construction year is 1982. About 5.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 154 5.5% 352.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 99 3.5% 35.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 136 4.8% -20.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 235 8.4% 0.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 628 22.3% 7.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 734 26.1% 2.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 440 15.6% -15.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 189 6.7% 51.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 186 6.6% 17.7%
Built in 2020 or later 12 0.4% N/A
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.

Solvang occupancy rates

Out of the 2,726 occupied housing units in Solvang, 57% are owner-occupied, while 43% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,726
7.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,173
Owner occupied
1,553
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,173 43% 17.3%
Owner occupied 1,553 57% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
3.1%
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.

Solvang housing costs

Housing costs in Solvang come to a median of $1,847 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,666.

Median housing costs per month
$1,847/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 Solvang
$1,666/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 Solvang

Solvang education at a glance

About 22.6% of the population in Solvang went to high school, while 25.9% pursued college studies. Another 10.4% earned an associate degree and 22.9% 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 302 5.8% 52.5%
High school diploma 1,182 22.6% 0.8%
College diploma 1,351 25.9% -7.6%
Associate degree 546 10.4% 12.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,198 22.9% -4.2%
Graduate degree 644 12.3% 9.0%
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 Solvang

How much people earn in Solvang

The average annual household income in Solvang was $160,132 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $109,091, reflecting a -7.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Solvang
$160,132/year
-9.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Solvang
$109,091/year
-7.7% year-over-year change

Solvang income by age

In Solvang, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $114,327. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $151,705 overall. Overall, 89.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $114,327 -12.2%
45 - 64 $151,705 -12.8%
Over 65 $82,142 -1.9%
Above poverty level
5,192
Below poverty level
598
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,192 89.7% -4.1%
Below poverty level 598 10.3% 44.4%

Average renter income in Solvang

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Solvang, their median household income was $76,996 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 26%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$76,996
Rent-to-income ratio
26%
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 Solvang

Workforce and job types in Solvang

The job market in Solvang is powered by 3,020 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 17.7% run their own businesses, 58.3% are employed by private companies, and 16.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,020
-3.1% year-over-year change
White collar
2,636
Blue collar
384
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,636 87.3% -2.6%
Blue collar 384 12.7% -6.6%
Employer type
Self employees
17.7%
Private companies
58.3%
Governmental workers
16.3%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 534 17.7% -21.4%
Private companies 1,760 58.3% -1.1%
Governmental workers 492 16.3% 12.1%
Not for profit companies 234 7.8% 6.8%
Unemployment rate
1.8%
-40.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Solvang stands at 1.8%, 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 Solvang

How people get around in Solvang

Commuting methods vary: 73.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 8.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,157 73.8% -1.1%
Bus or trolleybus 17 0.6% -46.9%
Bicycle 48 1.6% 4.3%
Walk 238 8.2% 6.7%
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 Solvang by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
93463 8,130 3,535 $118,488 $163,761

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FAQs about Solvang demographics 

What is the total population of Solvang?

Solvang has a total population of 6,034 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 Solvang?

The gender ratio in Solvang is as follows:
  • 45.2% males (2,729 residents)
  • 54.8% females (3,305 residents)

What is the median age in Solvang?

The median age in Solvang is 54.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Solvang?

The age distribution in Solvang is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.9% (719 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (600 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18% (1,083 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.8% (1,615 residents)
  • Over 65: 33.4% (2,017 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Solvang?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Solvang is as follows:
  • White: 65% (3,923 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.7% (161 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2% (118 residents)
  • Asian: 2.9% (176 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.9% (52 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.2% (1,159 residents)
  • Other: 7.4% (445 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.1% of the population in Solvang.

How many housing units are there in Solvang?

There are 2,813 housing units in Solvang, reflecting a +7.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Solvang has a total of 2,726 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Solvang?

Solvang has a median household income of $109,091, representing a -7.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Solvang?

The employment rate is 98.2% in Solvang, with a workforce of 3,020 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87.3% (2,636 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12.7% (384 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 17.7% (534 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.3% (1,760 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.3% (492 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (234 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