Ashland, CA
Population 22,784 · California
About Ashland, CA
Ashland is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 22,784 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $81,604 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Ashland features a median home value of $695,300, which is 184% above the national median of $244,900. This places Ashland in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $2,063, 77% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 7,999 total housing units, 36% are owner-occupied (2,737 units) and 64% are renter-occupied (4,787 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ashland shows an unemployment rate of 7.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Ashland have an average one-way commute time of 31.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.8% of Ashland residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 37.7% White, 2.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, and 6.5% Asian residents, with 37.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ashland, CA
Compared to national averages, Ashland has a median household income of $81,604 (9% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $695,300, which is 184% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,063 is 77% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Ashland's income is 17% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 6% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Ashland, CA?
Ashland offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $81,604, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $695,300. However, Ashland’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ashland has a population of 22,784 with a median age of 36 years. Compare Ashland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Ashland
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laguna Beach | 22,777 | $140,508 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Ramona | 22,829 | $101,023 | $704,500 | Compare |
| Calabasas | 22,869 | $157,938 | $1,453,900 | Compare |
| Corcoran | 22,626 | $55,909 | $220,500 | Compare |
| Millbrae | 22,589 | $157,567 | $1,929,700 | Compare |
| West Rancho Dominguez | 22,560 | $81,585 | $589,100 | Compare |
| Oakdale | 23,155 | $86,478 | $432,800 | Compare |
| Linda | 23,215 | $69,161 | $337,700 | 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.
Compare Ashland With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Ashland
What is the population of Ashland, CA?
The population of Ashland, CA is 22,784 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in California.
What is the median household income in Ashland?
The median household income in Ashland, CA is $81,604 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ashland?
The median home value in Ashland, CA is $695,300, which is 184% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Ashland?
The median monthly rent in Ashland, CA is $2,063, which is 77% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ashland?
The unemployment rate in Ashland, CA is 7.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Ashland, CA a good place to live?
Ashland offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 22,784 and a median age of 36, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Ashland, CA?
20.8% of residents in Ashland aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Ashland?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ashland, CA: median home value is $695,300 (184% above national), median rent is $2,063/month, and median household income is $81,604. The home-value-to-income ratio is 8.5x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Ashland?
The poverty rate in Ashland, CA is 16.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Ashland, CA?
Ashland's population is 37.7% White, 2.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, 6.5% Asian, and 18.4% two or more races. 37.0% of residents are foreign-born.