South Gate, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
91,483
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,571/yr
4.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
25,733
1.2% year-over-year change

South Gate population

How many people live in South Gate

South Gate is home to 91,483 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of South Gate locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
91,483
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
45,023
Female
50.8%
46,460
Value Percent YoY change
Male 45,023 49.2% 0.4%
Female 46,460 50.8% -1.2%
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 Gate is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 14.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.8% of the population, while another 26.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
14.4%
25 to 44
28.8%
45 to 64
26.3%
Over 65
12.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 16,654 18.2% -3.2%
15 to 24 13,165 14.4% -4.1%
25 to 44 26,299 28.8% -0.2%
45 to 64 24,021 26.3% 2.3%
Over 65 11,344 12.4% 2.4%
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 Gate, 57.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 21.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 21.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 12.8% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 33.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
57.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
21.3%
Non-citizens
21.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 52,450 57.3% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 19,512 21.3% -1.4%
Non-citizens 19,521 21.3% 1.1%
Racial breakdown
White
12.8%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.2%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
33.9%
Other
49%
Value Percent
White 11,737 12.8%
Black or African American 935 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,046 2.2%
Asian 892 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 36 0%
Two or more races 31,042 33.9%
Other 44,795 49%

Households in South Gate

A peek inside South Gate households

South Gate has 25,199 households, with an average of 4 members in each. Of these, 80.8% are families, while the remaining 19.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
25,199
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
4
Non-family households
4,837
Family households
20,362
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,837 19.2% 7.8%
Family households 20,362 80.8% 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 South Gate

The housing landscape of South Gate

South Gate's housing consists of 25,733 units, with 55.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.8% 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 1.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
25,733
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,303 55.6%
1 unit, attached 2,767 10.8%
2 units 1,143 4.4%
3 or 4 units 2,823 11%
5 to 9 units 1,985 7.7%
10 to 19 units 938 3.6%
20 to 49 units 549 2.1%
50 or more units 877 3.4%
Mobile home 306 1.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 42 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
141
23.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Gate

In South Gate, the median construction year is 1952. About 22.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 24.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,822 22.6% 1.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 6,236 24.2% 3.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,508 17.5% 5.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,392 9.3% -2.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,392 9.3% -6.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,804 7% -7.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 865 3.4% -1.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 875 3.4% -2.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 698 2.7% 21.2%
Built in 2020 or later 141 0.6% 23.7%
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 Gate occupancy rates

Out of the 25,199 occupied housing units in South Gate, 45.3% are owner-occupied, while 54.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
25,199
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
13,782
Owner occupied
11,417
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 13,782 54.7% -0.2%
Owner occupied 11,417 45.3% 3.7%
Unoccupied housing units
2.1%
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.

South Gate housing costs

Housing costs in South Gate come to a median of $1,609 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,531.

Median housing costs per month
$1,609/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 Gate
$1,531/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 Gate

South Gate education at a glance

About 41.3% of the population in South Gate went to high school, while 19.3% pursued college studies. Another 5.7% earned an associate degree and 9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 16,001 22.6% -0.2%
High school diploma 29,253 41.3% 1.9%
College diploma 13,656 19.3% -3.6%
Associate degree 4,007 5.7% 8.7%
Bachelor's degree 6,337 9% -3.4%
Graduate degree 1,527 2.2% 15.2%
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 South Gate

How much people earn in South Gate

The average annual household income in South Gate was $91,671 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,571, reflecting a +4.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Gate
$91,671/year
6.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Gate
$74,571/year
4.6% year-over-year change

South Gate income by age

In South Gate, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $73,983. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,048 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $65,727, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,080 in earnings. Overall, 87.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $65,727 5.0%
25 - 44 $73,983 5.4%
45 - 64 $89,048 5.9%
Over 65 $50,080 2.6%
Above poverty level
78,871
Below poverty level
11,492
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 78,871 87.3% 0.3%
Below poverty level 11,492 12.7% -4.2%

Average renter income in South Gate

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in South Gate, their median household income was $52,119 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$52,119
Rent-to-income ratio
35.3%
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 South Gate

Workforce and job types in South Gate

The job market in South Gate is powered by 43,912 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 61.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 38.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.7% run their own businesses, 73.5% are employed by private companies, and 11.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
43,912
-0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
27,063
Blue collar
16,849
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 27,063 61.6% -1.5%
Blue collar 16,849 38.4% 1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8.7%
Private companies
73.5%
Governmental workers
11.8%
Not for profit companies
6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,833 8.7% -7.2%
Private companies 32,265 73.5% -1.5%
Governmental workers 5,188 11.8% 1.3%
Not for profit companies 2,626 6% 30.9%
Unemployment rate
7.4%
7.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South Gate 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 Gate

How people get around in South Gate

In South Gate, the average commute time is 32 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
32 min
0.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 36,494 85.1% -0.8%
Taxicab 28 0.1% 47.4%
Bus or trolleybus 1,325 3.1% -11.3%
Subway or elevated 235 0.6% N/A
Motorcycle 109 0.2% -17.4%
Bicycle 48 0.1% 11.6%
Walk 822 1.9% 12.1%
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 Gate by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
90280 91,365 25,164 $74,651 $91,766

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FAQs about South Gate demographics 

What is the total population of South Gate?

South Gate has a total population of 91,483 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 South Gate?

The gender ratio in South Gate is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (45,023 residents)
  • 50.8% females (46,460 residents)

What is the median age in South Gate?

The median age in South Gate is 36.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Gate?

The age distribution in South Gate is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (16,654 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.4% (13,165 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.8% (26,299 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.3% (24,021 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.4% (11,344 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Gate?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Gate is as follows:
  • White: 12.8% (11,737 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (935 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.2% (2,046 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (892 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (36 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 33.9% (31,042 residents)
  • Other: 49% (44,795 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 57.3% of the population in South Gate.

How many housing units are there in South Gate?

There are 25,733 housing units in South Gate, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

South Gate has a total of 25,199 households, with an average of 4 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Gate?

South Gate has a median household income of $74,571, representing a +4.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.6% in South Gate, with a workforce of 43,912 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 61.6% (27,063 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 38.4% (16,849 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.7% (3,833 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.5% (32,265 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.8% (5,188 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6% (2,626 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