Atwater, CA
Population 32,013 · California
About Atwater, CA
Atwater is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 32,013 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $63,945 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.9 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Atwater features a median home value of $340,600, which is 39% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Atwater in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,219, 5% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 10,525 total housing units, 52% are owner-occupied (5,380 units) and 48% are renter-occupied (4,916 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Atwater shows an unemployment rate of 11.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 20.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Atwater have an average one-way commute time of 29 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.1% of Atwater 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 55.9% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 22.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Atwater, CA
Compared to national averages, Atwater has a median household income of $63,945 (15% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $340,600, which is 39% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,219 is 5% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Atwater's income is 35% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 48% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Atwater, CA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,945) that falls below the national average. However, Atwater’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Atwater has a population of 32,013 with a median age of 33.9 years. Compare Atwater with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Atwater
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fair Oaks | 32,030 | $111,332 | $645,600 | Compare |
| Seaside | 31,964 | $82,303 | $692,600 | Compare |
| Beverly Hills | 31,955 | $127,979 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Spring Valley CDP (San Diego County), California | 32,215 | $104,808 | $645,300 | Compare |
| San Pablo | 31,771 | $78,215 | $516,000 | Compare |
| Fallbrook | 32,467 | $87,293 | $713,000 | Compare |
| El Paso de Robles (Paso Robles) | 31,399 | $93,098 | $648,400 | Compare |
| Goleta | 32,693 | $118,039 | $1,002,500 | 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 Atwater With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Atwater
What is the population of Atwater, CA?
The population of Atwater, CA is 32,013 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 Atwater?
The median household income in Atwater, CA is $63,945 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Atwater?
The median home value in Atwater, CA is $340,600, which is 39% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Atwater?
The median monthly rent in Atwater, CA is $1,219, which is 5% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Atwater?
The unemployment rate in Atwater, CA is 11.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Atwater, CA a good place to live?
Atwater offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 32,013 and a median age of 33.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Atwater, CA?
13.1% of residents in Atwater 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 Atwater?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Atwater, CA: median home value is $340,600 (39% above national), median rent is $1,219/month, and median household income is $63,945. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Atwater?
The poverty rate in Atwater, CA is 20.0%, 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 Atwater, CA?
Atwater's population is 55.9% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 3.4% two or more races. 22.2% of residents are foreign-born.