Wasco, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
26,558
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,727/yr
-6.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,763
4.8% year-over-year change

Wasco population

How many people live in Wasco

Wasco is home to 26,558 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 58.1% of Wasco locals are male, and 41.9% are female.

Total population
26,558
1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
58.1%
15,442
Female
41.9%
11,116
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,442 58.1% 0.8%
Female 11,116 41.9% 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 Wasco is 31, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.9% are children under 15, then 13.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 36.2% of the population, while another 18.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 6.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
30.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.9%
15 to 24
13.9%
25 to 44
36.2%
45 to 64
18.7%
Over 65
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,612 24.9% 2.6%
15 to 24 3,684 13.9% 0.5%
25 to 44 9,601 36.2% -0.3%
45 to 64 4,969 18.7% 3.4%
Over 65 1,692 6.4% 0.8%
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 Wasco, 69.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 22.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 18.5% of locals are Caucasian, 4.4% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 51% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
69.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.3%
Non-citizens
22.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,398 69.3% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,198 8.3% 7.3%
Non-citizens 5,962 22.4% 5.8%
Racial breakdown
White
18.5%
Black or African American
4.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.5%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
51%
Other
23.9%
Value Percent
White 4,911 18.5%
Black or African American 1,178 4.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 389 1.5%
Asian 192 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 12 0%
Two or more races 13,530 51%
Other 6,346 23.9%

Households in Wasco

A peek inside Wasco households

Wasco has 6,342 households, with an average of 4 members in each. Of these, 83.4% are families, while the remaining 16.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,342
6.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
4
Non-family households
1,053
Family households
5,289
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,053 16.6% 6.0%
Family households 5,289 83.4% 6.4%
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 Wasco

The housing landscape of Wasco

Wasco's housing consists of 6,763 units, with 76.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.2% 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 4.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,763
4.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,147 76.1%
1 unit, attached 218 3.2%
2 units 181 2.7%
3 or 4 units 333 4.9%
5 to 9 units 98 1.4%
10 to 19 units 79 1.2%
20 to 49 units 62 0.9%
50 or more units 324 4.8%
Mobile home 321 4.8%
Homes built since 2020
146
224.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wasco

In Wasco, the median construction year is 1983. About 5.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 342 5.1% -10.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 479 7.1% -20.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 938 13.9% -6.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 837 12.4% 19.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 645 9.5% 0.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 493 7.3% -0.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 774 11.4% 2.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,082 16% 15.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,027 15.2% 15.9%
Built in 2020 or later 146 2.2% 224.4%
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.

Wasco occupancy rates

Out of the 6,342 occupied housing units in Wasco, 58.3% are owner-occupied, while 41.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,342
6.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,645
Owner occupied
3,697
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,645 41.7% 8.5%
Owner occupied 3,697 58.3% 4.8%
Unoccupied housing units
6.2%
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.

Wasco housing costs

Housing costs in Wasco come to a median of $1,144 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,089.

Median housing costs per month
$1,144/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 Wasco
$1,089/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 Wasco

Wasco education at a glance

About 47.9% of the population in Wasco went to high school, while 20.6% pursued college studies. Another 3.6% earned an associate degree and 5.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 1.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,069 21.4% 12.8%
High school diploma 9,108 47.9% 0.7%
College diploma 3,907 20.6% -0.1%
Associate degree 682 3.6% -11.4%
Bachelor's degree 982 5.2% -13.9%
Graduate degree 268 1.4% -17.3%
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 Wasco

How much people earn in Wasco

The average annual household income in Wasco was $70,043 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,727, reflecting a -6.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wasco
$70,043/year
-1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wasco
$51,727/year
-6.8% year-over-year change

Wasco income by age

In Wasco, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $59,336. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $56,953 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $27,220, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $24,773 in earnings. Overall, 81.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $27,220 N/A
25 - 44 $59,336 1.1%
45 - 64 $56,953 -14.3%
Over 65 $24,773 -0.7%
Above poverty level
18,109
Below poverty level
4,090
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,109 81.6% 3.3%
Below poverty level 4,090 18.4% -1.5%

Average renter income in Wasco

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Wasco, their median household income was $33,307 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$33,307
Rent-to-income ratio
39.2%
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 Wasco

Workforce and job types in Wasco

The job market in Wasco is powered by 9,309 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 47.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 52.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 3.8% run their own businesses, 82.2% are employed by private companies, and 10.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,309
5.3% year-over-year change
White collar
4,445
Blue collar
4,864
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,445 47.8% 6.2%
Blue collar 4,864 52.2% 4.6%
Employer type
Self employees
3.8%
Private companies
82.2%
Governmental workers
10.9%
Not for profit companies
3.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 353 3.8% 0.0%
Private companies 7,655 82.2% 6.9%
Governmental workers 1,011 10.9% 11.1%
Not for profit companies 290 3.1% -30.3%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
4.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wasco stands at 7%, 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 Wasco

How people get around in Wasco

Commuting methods vary: 94.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% 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 8,491 94.4% 3.2%
Bus or trolleybus 21 0.2% N/A
Motorcycle 30 0.3% 50.0%
Walk 180 2% 5.3%
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 Wasco by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
93280 27,407 6,619 $51,388 $70,553

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FAQs about Wasco demographics 

What is the total population of Wasco?

Wasco has a total population of 26,558 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 +1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wasco?

The gender ratio in Wasco is as follows:
  • 58.1% males (15,442 residents)
  • 41.9% females (11,116 residents)

What is the median age in Wasco?

The median age in Wasco is 30.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Wasco?

The age distribution in Wasco is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.9% (6,612 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.9% (3,684 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 36.2% (9,601 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.7% (4,969 residents)
  • Over 65: 6.4% (1,692 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wasco?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wasco is as follows:
  • White: 18.5% (4,911 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.4% (1,178 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.5% (389 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (192 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (12 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 51% (13,530 residents)
  • Other: 23.9% (6,346 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 69.3% of the population in Wasco.

How many housing units are there in Wasco?

There are 6,763 housing units in Wasco, reflecting a +4.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wasco has a total of 6,342 households, with an average of 4 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wasco?

Wasco has a median household income of $51,727, representing a -6.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93% in Wasco, with a workforce of 9,309 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 47.8% (4,445 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 52.2% (4,864 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 3.8% (353 residents)
  • Private companies: 82.2% (7,655 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.9% (1,011 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.1% (290 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