Arcata, CA
Population 18,578 · California
About Arcata, CA
Arcata is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 18,578 residents. The median household income is $48,731 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Arcata is 28 years.
Housing in Arcata has a median home value of $466,600 and median monthly rent of $1,287. Of the 8,376 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 2,597 owner-occupied and 5,063 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Arcata is 13.2% and the poverty rate is 29.6%. 45.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 18.2 minutes.
Cost of Living in Arcata, CA
Compared to national averages, Arcata has a median household income of $48,731 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $466,600, which is 91% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,287 is 11% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Arcata's income is 50% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 29% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Arcata, CA?
Arcata offers a well-educated community where 45.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 18.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,731) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $466,600. However, Arcata’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Arcata has a population of 18,578 with a median age of 28 years. Compare Arcata with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Arcata
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coronado | 18,558 | $135,056 | $1,998,900 | Compare |
| Castaic | 18,479 | $132,153 | $710,400 | Compare |
| Arroyo Grande | 18,412 | $103,258 | $758,100 | Compare |
| Pinole | 18,835 | $120,833 | $697,100 | Compare |
| Chowchilla | 18,876 | $63,308 | $331,500 | Compare |
| Olivehurst | 19,071 | $80,477 | $337,300 | Compare |
| Phelan | 18,059 | $83,759 | $357,200 | Compare |
| Dixon | 19,158 | $98,798 | $575,600 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in California
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Arcata
What is the population of Arcata, CA?
The population of Arcata, CA is 18,578 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Arcata?
The median household income in Arcata, CA is $48,731 per year.
What is the median home value in Arcata?
The median home value in Arcata, CA is $466,600.
What is the average rent in Arcata?
The median monthly rent in Arcata, CA is $1,287.
What is the unemployment rate in Arcata?
The unemployment rate in Arcata, CA is 13.2%.