Bell, CA
Population 32,830 · California
About Bell, CA
Bell is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 32,830 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,641 per year, which is 19% 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 Bell features a median home value of $561,400, which is 129% above the national median of $244,900. This places Bell in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,538, 32% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 9,088 total housing units, 27% are owner-occupied (2,355 units) and 73% are renter-occupied (6,469 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 Bell shows an unemployment rate of 7.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 22.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Bell have an average one-way commute time of 31.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.7% of Bell 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 70.4% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 17.4% Asian residents, with 41.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Bell, CA
Compared to national averages, Bell has a median household income of $60,641 (19% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $561,400, which is 129% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,538 is 32% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Bell's income is 38% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 14% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Bell, CA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,641) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $561,400. However, Bell’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bell has a population of 32,830 with a median age of 33.9 years. Compare Bell with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Bell
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Desert Hot Springs | 32,786 | $50,349 | $309,300 | Compare |
| Dana Point | 32,883 | $127,246 | $1,200,900 | Compare |
| Menlo Park | 32,775 | $206,588 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Los Gatos | 32,773 | $207,891 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Foster City | 32,964 | $193,633 | $1,774,500 | Compare |
| Lathrop | 32,696 | $118,605 | $605,000 | Compare |
| Goleta | 32,693 | $118,039 | $1,002,500 | Compare |
| Fallbrook | 32,467 | $87,293 | $713,000 | 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 Bell With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Bell
What is the population of Bell, CA?
The population of Bell, CA is 32,830 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 Bell?
The median household income in Bell, CA is $60,641 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bell?
The median home value in Bell, CA is $561,400, which is 129% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Bell?
The median monthly rent in Bell, CA is $1,538, which is 32% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bell?
The unemployment rate in Bell, CA is 7.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Bell, CA a good place to live?
Bell offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 32,830 and a median age of 33.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Bell, CA?
8.7% of residents in Bell 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 Bell?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bell, CA: median home value is $561,400 (129% above national), median rent is $1,538/month, and median household income is $60,641. The home-value-to-income ratio is 9.3x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Bell?
The poverty rate in Bell, CA is 22.8%, 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 Bell, CA?
Bell's population is 70.4% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 17.4% Asian, and 2.0% two or more races. 41.6% of residents are foreign-born.