South El Monte, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
19,287
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$72,990/yr
8.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,292
1.8% year-over-year change

South El Monte population

How many people live in South El Monte

South El Monte is home to 19,287 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of South El Monte locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
19,287
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
9,574
Female
50.4%
9,713
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,574 49.6% 0.7%
Female 9,713 50.4% -1.9%
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 South El Monte is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.6% are children under 15, then 14.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.3% of the population, while another 25.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.6%
15 to 24
14.2%
25 to 44
26.3%
45 to 64
25.4%
Over 65
15.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,597 18.6% 2.0%
15 to 24 2,743 14.2% -7.9%
25 to 44 5,072 26.3% 5.4%
45 to 64 4,889 25.4% -6.1%
Over 65 2,986 15.5% 3.2%
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 South El Monte, 53.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 22.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 23.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 10.7% of locals are Caucasian, 0.9% are African American and 20.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 21.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
53.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
22.4%
Non-citizens
23.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,390 53.9% -1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,328 22.4% 1.7%
Non-citizens 4,569 23.7% -0.3%
Racial breakdown
White
10.7%
Black or African American
0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.1%
Asian
20.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
21.9%
Other
44.9%
Value Percent
White 2,061 10.7%
Black or African American 179 0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 205 1.1%
Asian 3,961 20.5%
Two or more races 4,229 21.9%
Other 8,652 44.9%

Households in South El Monte

A peek inside South El Monte households

South El Monte has 5,087 households, with an average of 4 members in each. Of these, 84.6% are families, while the remaining 15.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,087
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
4
Non-family households
785
Family households
4,302
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 785 15.4% 3.8%
Family households 4,302 84.6% 0.2%
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 South El Monte

The housing landscape of South El Monte

South El Monte's housing consists of 5,292 units, with 65.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11% 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
5,292
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,486 65.9%
1 unit, attached 585 11%
2 units 60 1.1%
3 or 4 units 124 2.3%
5 to 9 units 114 2.2%
10 to 19 units 301 5.7%
20 to 49 units 66 1.2%
50 or more units 26 0.5%
Mobile home 525 9.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 5 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
107
39.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South El Monte

In South El Monte, the median construction year is 1959. About 4.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 13.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 256 4.8% 1.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 713 13.5% 0.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,815 34.3% 3.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 767 14.5% 2.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 543 10.3% 8.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 249 4.7% -12.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 358 6.8% -15.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 283 5.4% 2.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 201 3.8% 21.8%
Built in 2020 or later 107 2% 39.0%
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.

South El Monte occupancy rates

Out of the 5,087 occupied housing units in South El Monte, 50.5% are owner-occupied, while 49.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,087
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,517
Owner occupied
2,570
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,517 49.5% -1.3%
Owner occupied 2,570 50.5% 2.8%
Unoccupied housing units
3.9%
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.

South El Monte housing costs

Housing costs in South El Monte come to a median of $1,706 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,752.

Median housing costs per month
$1,706/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 South El Monte
$1,752/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 South El Monte

South El Monte education at a glance

About 37% of the population in South El Monte went to high school, while 20.3% pursued college studies. Another 3.7% earned an associate degree and 9.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 1.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,100 28.1% 5.3%
High school diploma 5,410 37% -5.7%
College diploma 2,966 20.3% 2.2%
Associate degree 537 3.7% -3.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,326 9.1% 5.9%
Graduate degree 270 1.8% -21.1%
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 South El Monte

How much people earn in South El Monte

The average annual household income in South El Monte was $87,532 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $72,990, reflecting a +8.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South El Monte
$87,532/year
4.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in South El Monte
$72,990/year
8.7% year-over-year change

South El Monte income by age

In South El Monte, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,912. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,583 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,015, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,344 in earnings. Overall, 79.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,015 0.1%
25 - 44 $76,912 -7.6%
45 - 64 $78,583 9.8%
Over 65 $52,344 26.7%
Above poverty level
14,976
Below poverty level
3,951
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,976 79.1% 2.7%
Below poverty level 3,951 20.9% -12.7%

Average renter income in South El Monte

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in South El Monte, their median household income was $47,253 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 44.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$47,253
Rent-to-income ratio
44.5%
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 South El Monte

Workforce and job types in South El Monte

The job market in South El Monte is powered by 8,493 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.6% run their own businesses, 71.9% are employed by private companies, and 11.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,493
1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
5,702
Blue collar
2,791
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,702 67.1% 2.6%
Blue collar 2,791 32.9% 0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
10.6%
Private companies
71.9%
Governmental workers
11.3%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 901 10.6% 6.4%
Private companies 6,108 71.9% -2.3%
Governmental workers 961 11.3% 22.3%
Not for profit companies 523 6.2% 14.2%
Unemployment rate
7.4%
1.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South El Monte stands at 7.4%, 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 South El Monte

How people get around in South El Monte

In South El Monte, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
1.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,053 85.6% 0.1%
Bus or trolleybus 212 2.6% 20.4%
Railroad 36 0.4% -2.7%
Motorcycle 14 0.2% 16.7%
Bicycle 61 0.7% -15.3%
Walk 273 3.3% 19.7%
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 South El Monte by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
91733 41,255 10,922 $68,278 $85,720

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FAQs about South El Monte demographics 

What is the total population of South El Monte?

South El Monte has a total population of 19,287 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in South El Monte?

The gender ratio in South El Monte is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (9,574 residents)
  • 50.4% females (9,713 residents)

What is the median age in South El Monte?

The median age in South El Monte is 37.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in South El Monte?

The age distribution in South El Monte is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.6% (3,597 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.2% (2,743 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.3% (5,072 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.4% (4,889 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.5% (2,986 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South El Monte?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South El Monte is as follows:
  • White: 10.7% (2,061 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.9% (179 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.1% (205 residents)
  • Asian: 20.5% (3,961 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 21.9% (4,229 residents)
  • Other: 44.9% (8,652 residents)

What percentage of the population in South El Monte are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 53.9% of the population in South El Monte.

How many housing units are there in South El Monte?

There are 5,292 housing units in South El Monte, reflecting a +1.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in South El Monte and what is the average household size?

South El Monte has a total of 5,087 households, with an average of 4 people in each.

What is the median household income in South El Monte?

South El Monte has a median household income of $72,990, representing a +8.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for South El Monte?

The employment rate is 92.6% in South El Monte, with a workforce of 8,493 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.1% (5,702 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.9% (2,791 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.6% (901 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.9% (6,108 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.3% (961 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (523 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