Torrance, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
142,130
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$116,217/yr
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
59,284
-0.2% year-over-year change

Torrance population

How many people live in Torrance

Torrance is home to 142,130 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Torrance locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
142,130
-0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
71,017
Female
50%
71,113
Value Percent YoY change
Male 71,017 50% -0.2%
Female 71,113 50% -1.6%
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 Torrance is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.3% are children under 15, then 9.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.5% of the population, while another 28.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.3%
15 to 24
9.7%
25 to 44
25.5%
45 to 64
28.7%
Over 65
18.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 24,613 17.3% -1.5%
15 to 24 13,778 9.7% 2.0%
25 to 44 36,281 25.5% -1.4%
45 to 64 40,760 28.7% -2.8%
Over 65 26,698 18.8% 1.6%
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 Torrance, 68.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 19.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 36.1% of locals are Caucasian, 3.6% are African American and 37.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 8.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 13.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
68.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
19.4%
Non-citizens
12.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 97,008 68.2% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 27,543 19.4% -4.3%
Non-citizens 17,579 12.4% -4.4%
Racial breakdown
White
36.1%
Black or African American
3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
37.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
13.8%
Other
8.4%
Value Percent
White 51,254 36.1%
Black or African American 5,101 3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 512 0.4%
Asian 53,085 37.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 595 0.4%
Two or more races 19,673 13.8%
Other 11,910 8.4%

Households in Torrance

A peek inside Torrance households

Torrance has 54,869 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.1% are families, while the remaining 33.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
54,869
-0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
18,604
Family households
36,265
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 18,604 33.9% -1.4%
Family households 36,265 66.1% -0.5%
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 Torrance

The housing landscape of Torrance

Torrance's housing consists of 59,284 units, with 53.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.4% 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 1.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
59,284
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 31,681 53.4%
1 unit, attached 3,779 6.4%
2 units 948 1.6%
3 or 4 units 2,810 4.7%
5 to 9 units 2,604 4.4%
10 to 19 units 2,747 4.6%
20 to 49 units 6,065 10.2%
50 or more units 7,559 12.8%
Mobile home 1,091 1.8%
Homes built since 2020
179
148.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Torrance

In Torrance, the median construction year is 1964. About 3.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,225 3.8% 3.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,485 4.2% -9.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 19,323 32.6% -6.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 15,996 27% 1.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,773 14.8% 8.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,792 8.1% 2.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,232 3.8% 3.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,613 4.4% 9.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 666 1.1% 4.4%
Built in 2020 or later 179 0.3% 148.6%
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.

Torrance occupancy rates

Out of the 54,869 occupied housing units in Torrance, 55% are owner-occupied, while 45% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
54,869
-0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
24,687
Owner occupied
30,182
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 24,687 45% -1.8%
Owner occupied 30,182 55% -0.0%
Unoccupied housing units
7.4%
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.

Torrance housing costs

Housing costs in Torrance come to a median of $2,361 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,280.

Median housing costs per month
$2,361/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 Torrance
$2,280/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 Torrance

Torrance education at a glance

About 20.2% of the population in Torrance went to high school, while 17.6% pursued college studies. Another 8.5% earned an associate degree and 33.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,695 2.4% 2.7%
High school diploma 22,706 20.2% -5.4%
College diploma 19,817 17.6% -2.3%
Associate degree 9,535 8.5% -0.8%
Bachelor's degree 37,338 33.2% -0.4%
Graduate degree 20,486 18.2% 3.6%
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 Torrance

How much people earn in Torrance

The average annual household income in Torrance was $150,295 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $116,217, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Torrance
$150,295/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Torrance
$116,217/year
2.8% year-over-year change

Torrance income by age

In Torrance, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $130,672. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $132,551 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $71,806, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $78,149 in earnings. Overall, 92.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $71,806 -2.0%
25 - 44 $130,672 2.6%
45 - 64 $132,551 2.6%
Over 65 $78,149 -0.8%
Above poverty level
128,967
Below poverty level
10,850
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 128,967 92.2% -1.9%
Below poverty level 10,850 7.8% 10.7%

Average renter income in Torrance

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Torrance, their median household income was $84,052 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$84,052
Rent-to-income ratio
32.6%
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 Torrance

Workforce and job types in Torrance

The job market in Torrance is powered by 69,593 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 88.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12% run their own businesses, 68.7% are employed by private companies, and 12% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
69,593
-1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
61,620
Blue collar
7,973
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 61,620 88.5% -1.6%
Blue collar 7,973 11.5% -3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
12%
Private companies
68.7%
Governmental workers
12%
Not for profit companies
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 8,345 12% 1.9%
Private companies 47,798 68.7% -1.9%
Governmental workers 8,356 12% -1.4%
Not for profit companies 5,094 7.3% -7.2%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
7.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Torrance stands at 6%, 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 Torrance

How people get around in Torrance

Commuting methods vary: 75.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% 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 50,585 75.2% -4.9%
Taxicab 185 0.3% -3.6%
Bus or trolleybus 558 0.8% -22.5%
Motorcycle 27 0% -15.6%
Bicycle 348 0.5% 20.4%
Walk 607 0.9% -8.0%
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 Torrance by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
90277 34,844 16,152 $127,795 $182,769
90501 41,787 14,870 $92,923 $128,490
90502 18,467 6,708 $94,291 $117,578
90503 43,454 16,964 $125,912 $149,866
90504 33,084 11,723 $107,552 $140,391
90505 35,148 13,776 $115,593 $152,921

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FAQs about Torrance demographics 

What is the total population of Torrance?

Torrance has a total population of 142,130 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 -0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Torrance?

The gender ratio in Torrance is as follows:
  • 50% males (71,017 residents)
  • 50% females (71,113 residents)

What is the median age in Torrance?

The median age in Torrance is 43.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Torrance?

The age distribution in Torrance is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.3% (24,613 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.7% (13,778 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.5% (36,281 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.7% (40,760 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.8% (26,698 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Torrance?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Torrance is as follows:
  • White: 36.1% (51,254 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.6% (5,101 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (512 residents)
  • Asian: 37.4% (53,085 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (595 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13.8% (19,673 residents)
  • Other: 8.4% (11,910 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 68.2% of the population in Torrance.

How many housing units are there in Torrance?

There are 59,284 housing units in Torrance, reflecting a -0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Torrance has a total of 54,869 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Torrance?

Torrance has a median household income of $116,217, representing a +2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94% in Torrance, with a workforce of 69,593 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88.5% (61,620 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11.5% (7,973 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12% (8,345 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.7% (47,798 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12% (8,356 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.3% (5,094 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