Downtown South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,489
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$136,733/yr
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,275
1.3% year-over-year change

Downtown South San Francisco population

How many people live in Downtown South San Francisco

Downtown South San Francisco is home to 3,489 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Downtown South San Francisco locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
3,489
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
1,752
Female
49.8%
1,738
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,752 50.2% -1.5%
Female 1,738 49.8% 0.7%
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 Downtown South San Francisco is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.2% are children under 15, then 10.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.8% of the population, while another 28.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.2%
15 to 24
10.6%
25 to 44
27.8%
45 to 64
28.3%
Over 65
19%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 497 14.2% -5.3%
15 to 24 369 10.6% 2.8%
25 to 44 971 27.8% -3.2%
45 to 64 988 28.3% -1.4%
Over 65 664 19% 8.0%
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 Downtown South San Francisco, 57.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 30.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 23.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 42.1% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.9% are Pacific Islanders, while 15.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 15% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
57.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
30.3%
Non-citizens
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,017 57.8% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,056 30.3% 2.4%
Non-citizens 416 11.9% -7.8%
Racial breakdown
White
23.6%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
42.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.9%
Two or more races
15%
Other
15.9%
Value Percent
White 825 23.6%
Black or African American 54 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 34 1%
Asian 1,469 42.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 30 0.9%
Two or more races 525 15%
Other 554 15.9%

Households in Downtown South San Francisco

A peek inside Downtown South San Francisco households

Downtown South San Francisco has 1,184 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.4% are families, while the remaining 28.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,184
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
337
Family households
846
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 337 28.5% -0.9%
Family households 846 71.4% -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 Downtown South San Francisco

The housing landscape of Downtown South San Francisco

Downtown South San Francisco's housing consists of 1,275 units, with 58.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.8% 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
1,275
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 745 58.5%
1 unit, attached 125 9.8%
2 units 23 1.8%
3 or 4 units 53 4.2%
5 to 9 units 47 3.7%
10 to 19 units 50 3.9%
20 to 49 units 76 6%
50 or more units 136 10.7%
Mobile home 15 1.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 4 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
26
225.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Downtown South San Francisco

In Downtown South San Francisco, the median construction year is 1965. About 6.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5% 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 88 6.9% -11.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 149 11.7% -3.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 310 24.4% -3.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 186 14.6% 5.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 156 12.2% -3.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 100 7.9% -5.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 87 6.8% 17.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 108 8.5% 0.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 63 5% 21.1%
Built in 2020 or later 26 2% 225.0%
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.

Downtown South San Francisco occupancy rates

Out of the 1,184 occupied housing units in Downtown South San Francisco, 58.9% are owner-occupied, while 41% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,184
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
486
Owner occupied
697
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 486 41% 4.3%
Owner occupied 697 58.9% -3.5%
Unoccupied housing units
7.1%
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.

Downtown South San Francisco housing costs

Housing costs in Downtown South San Francisco come to a median of $2,769 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,809.

Median housing costs per month
$2,769/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 Downtown South San Francisco
$2,809/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 Downtown South San Francisco

Downtown South San Francisco education at a glance

About 25.4% of the population in Downtown South San Francisco went to high school, while 18% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 27.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 241 8.4% 10.1%
High school diploma 733 25.4% -1.6%
College diploma 521 18% -4.9%
Associate degree 259 9% -5.8%
Bachelor's degree 799 27.7% 2.7%
Graduate degree 333 11.5% 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 Downtown South San Francisco

How much people earn in Downtown South San Francisco

The average annual household income in Downtown South San Francisco was $177,797 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $136,733, reflecting a +0.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Downtown South San Francisco
$177,797/year
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Downtown South San Francisco
$136,733/year
0.6% year-over-year change

Downtown South San Francisco income by age

In Downtown South San Francisco, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $179,354. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $143,447 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $89,781, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $92,083 in earnings. Overall, 93.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $89,781 3.6%
25 - 44 $179,354 2.5%
45 - 64 $143,447 0.9%
Over 65 $92,083 9.1%
Above poverty level
3,216
Below poverty level
233
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,216 93.2% -0.2%
Below poverty level 233 6.8% -5.3%

Employment in Downtown South San Francisco

Workforce and job types in Downtown South San Francisco

82% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 66.1% are employed by private companies, and 14% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
1,579
Blue collar
347
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,579 82% -1.7%
Blue collar 347 18% -3.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
66.1%
Governmental workers
14%
Not for profit companies
11.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 169 8.8% -2.9%
Private companies 1,273 66.1% -4.1%
Governmental workers 270 14% 0.4%
Not for profit companies 214 11.1% 9.2%

Transportation in Downtown South San Francisco

How people get around in Downtown South San Francisco

In Downtown South San Francisco, the average commute time is 1 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92% 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
1 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,361 92% 0.6%
Taxicab 8 0.5% 166.7%
Bus or trolleybus 50 3.4% -24.2%
Railroad 8 0.5% -57.9%
Motorcycle 3 0.2% 0.0%
Bicycle 15 1% 0.0%
Walk 35 2.4% -5.4%
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 Downtown South San Francisco by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94080 64,761 21,966 $136,733 $177,797

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FAQs about Downtown South San Francisco demographics 

What is the total population of Downtown South San Francisco?

Downtown South San Francisco has a total population of 3,489 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 Downtown South San Francisco?

The gender ratio in Downtown South San Francisco is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (1,752 residents)
  • 49.8% females (1,738 residents)

What is the median age in Downtown South San Francisco?

The median age in Downtown South San Francisco is 43.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Downtown South San Francisco?

The age distribution in Downtown South San Francisco is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.2% (497 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.6% (369 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.8% (971 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.3% (988 residents)
  • Over 65: 19% (664 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Downtown South San Francisco?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Downtown South San Francisco is as follows:
  • White: 23.6% (825 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (54 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (34 residents)
  • Asian: 42.1% (1,469 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.9% (30 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15% (525 residents)
  • Other: 15.9% (554 residents)

What percentage of the population in Downtown South San Francisco are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 57.8% of the population in Downtown South San Francisco.

How many housing units are there in Downtown South San Francisco?

There are 1,275 housing units in Downtown South San Francisco, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Downtown South San Francisco and what is the average household size?

Downtown South San Francisco has a total of 1,184 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Downtown South San Francisco?

Downtown South San Francisco has a median household income of $136,733, representing a +0.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Downtown South San Francisco?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82% (1,579 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18% (347 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (169 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.1% (1,273 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14% (270 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.1% (214 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