Twentynine Palms, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
27,355
-4.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,554/yr
11.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,642
-3.2% year-over-year change

Twentynine Palms population

How many people live in Twentynine Palms

Twentynine Palms is home to 27,355 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 56.5% of Twentynine Palms locals are male, and 43.5% are female.

Total population
27,355
-4.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
56.5%
15,452
Female
43.5%
11,903
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,452 56.5% -4.1%
Female 11,903 43.5% -5.7%
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 Twentynine Palms is 25, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.8% are children under 15, then 28.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.8% of the population, while another 11% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 7.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
24.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.8%
15 to 24
28.6%
25 to 44
30.8%
45 to 64
11%
Over 65
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,974 21.8% -9.3%
15 to 24 7,831 28.6% -3.0%
25 to 44 8,429 30.8% -4.8%
45 to 64 3,024 11% -7.8%
Over 65 2,097 7.7% 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 Twentynine Palms, 89.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 52.1% of locals are Caucasian, 9.4% are African American and 4.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.8% are Indigenous American, 0.6% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 30.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.6%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 24,515 89.6% -5.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,792 6.6% -9.6%
Non-citizens 1,048 3.8% 9.7%
Racial breakdown
White
52.1%
Black or African American
9.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
4.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.6%
Two or more races
30.2%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 14,251 52.1%
Black or African American 2,583 9.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 224 0.8%
Asian 1,128 4.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 165 0.6%
Two or more races 8,247 30.2%
Other 757 2.8%

Households in Twentynine Palms

A peek inside Twentynine Palms households

Twentynine Palms has 9,291 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66% are families, while the remaining 34% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,291
-4.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,154
Family households
6,137
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,154 34% 1.9%
Family households 6,137 66% -7.5%
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 Twentynine Palms

The housing landscape of Twentynine Palms

Twentynine Palms's housing consists of 10,642 units, with 53.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 18% 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 3.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,642
-3.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,699 53.6%
1 unit, attached 1,910 18%
2 units 802 7.5%
3 or 4 units 1,124 10.6%
5 to 9 units 267 2.5%
10 to 19 units 68 0.6%
20 to 49 units 80 0.8%
50 or more units 309 2.9%
Mobile home 383 3.6%
Homes built since 2020
21
250.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Twentynine Palms

In Twentynine Palms, the median construction year is 1985. About 2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 212 2% 26.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 560 5.3% 25.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,291 12.1% 14.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 637 6% -7.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,487 14% 14.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,200 20.7% -6.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,249 11.7% -18.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,081 19.6% -6.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 904 8.5% -21.2%
Built in 2020 or later 21 0.2% 250.0%
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.

Twentynine Palms occupancy rates

Out of the 9,291 occupied housing units in Twentynine Palms, 38.2% are owner-occupied, while 61.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,291
-4.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,739
Owner occupied
3,552
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,739 61.8% -5.7%
Owner occupied 3,552 38.2% -2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
12.7%
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.

Twentynine Palms housing costs

Housing costs in Twentynine Palms come to a median of $1,268 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,352.

Median housing costs per month
$1,268/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 Twentynine Palms
$1,352/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 Twentynine Palms

Twentynine Palms education at a glance

About 40.3% of the population in Twentynine Palms went to high school, while 34.1% pursued college studies. Another 6.2% earned an associate degree and 14.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 211 1% -5.4%
High school diploma 8,375 40.3% -0.6%
College diploma 7,081 34.1% -6.9%
Associate degree 1,279 6.2% -5.1%
Bachelor's degree 2,949 14.2% 1.6%
Graduate degree 878 4.2% -9.8%
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 Twentynine Palms

How much people earn in Twentynine Palms

The average annual household income in Twentynine Palms was $79,898 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,554, reflecting a +11.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Twentynine Palms
$79,898/year
5.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Twentynine Palms
$62,554/year
11.7% year-over-year change

Twentynine Palms income by age

In Twentynine Palms, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,116. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,111 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,804, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,359 in earnings. Overall, 85.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,804 9.6%
25 - 44 $68,116 7.7%
45 - 64 $76,111 24.9%
Over 65 $66,359 1.5%
Above poverty level
19,488
Below poverty level
3,377
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 19,488 85.2% -4.2%
Below poverty level 3,377 14.8% -11.3%

Average renter income in Twentynine Palms

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Twentynine Palms, their median household income was $45,221 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$45,221
Rent-to-income ratio
35.9%
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 Twentynine Palms

Workforce and job types in Twentynine Palms

The job market in Twentynine Palms is powered by 7,889 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.6% run their own businesses, 56.5% are employed by private companies, and 25.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,889
2.8% year-over-year change
White collar
6,498
Blue collar
1,391
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,498 82.4% 7.9%
Blue collar 1,391 17.6% -15.6%
Employer type
Self employees
10.6%
Private companies
56.5%
Governmental workers
25.1%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 836 10.6% 16.4%
Private companies 4,458 56.5% 9.2%
Governmental workers 1,978 25.1% -8.4%
Not for profit companies 617 7.8% -13.2%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
-6.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Twentynine Palms stands at 3.9%, 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 Twentynine Palms

How people get around in Twentynine Palms

In Twentynine Palms, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 13.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
16 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 11,273 76% -2.2%
Taxicab 11 0.1% -8.3%
Bus or trolleybus 63 0.4% 950.0%
Motorcycle 74 0.5% -26.7%
Bicycle 26 0.2% 766.7%
Walk 2,007 13.5% -6.5%
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 Twentynine Palms by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
92277 26,277 10,501 $60,901 $77,955
92278 3,913 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about Twentynine Palms demographics 

What is the total population of Twentynine Palms?

Twentynine Palms has a total population of 27,355 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 -4.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Twentynine Palms?

The gender ratio in Twentynine Palms is as follows:
  • 56.5% males (15,452 residents)
  • 43.5% females (11,903 residents)

What is the median age in Twentynine Palms?

The median age in Twentynine Palms is 24.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Twentynine Palms?

The age distribution in Twentynine Palms is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.8% (5,974 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 28.6% (7,831 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.8% (8,429 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 11% (3,024 residents)
  • Over 65: 7.7% (2,097 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Twentynine Palms?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Twentynine Palms is as follows:
  • White: 52.1% (14,251 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.4% (2,583 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (224 residents)
  • Asian: 4.1% (1,128 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.6% (165 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 30.2% (8,247 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (757 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.6% of the population in Twentynine Palms.

How many housing units are there in Twentynine Palms?

There are 10,642 housing units in Twentynine Palms, reflecting a -3.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Twentynine Palms has a total of 9,291 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Twentynine Palms?

Twentynine Palms has a median household income of $62,554, representing a +11.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Twentynine Palms?

The employment rate is 96.1% in Twentynine Palms, with a workforce of 7,889 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.4% (6,498 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.6% (1,391 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.6% (836 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.5% (4,458 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 25.1% (1,978 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (617 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