Benicia, CA
Population 26,861 · California
About Benicia, CA
Benicia is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 26,861 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $125,040 per year, which is 66% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.1 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Benicia features a median home value of $778,600, which is 218% above the national median of $244,900. This places Benicia in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $2,234, 92% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 11,454 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (7,767 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (3,149 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Benicia shows an unemployment rate of 4.0%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 6.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Benicia have an average one-way commute time of 30.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
45.5% of Benicia residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 9.3% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 5.1% Asian residents, with 13.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Benicia, CA
Compared to national averages, Benicia has a median household income of $125,040 (66% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $778,600, which is 218% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,234 is 92% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Benicia's income is 28% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 19% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Benicia, CA?
Benicia offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $125,040, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 45.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 6.9%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $778,600. However, Benicia’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Benicia has a population of 26,861 with a median age of 45.1 years. Compare Benicia with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Benicia
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brawley | 26,934 | $60,370 | $270,100 | Compare |
| Lemoore | 27,023 | $82,189 | $319,200 | Compare |
| Sanger | 26,515 | $74,428 | $346,000 | Compare |
| Eureka | 26,302 | $60,253 | $375,800 | Compare |
| South Pasadena | 26,297 | $128,105 | $1,545,100 | Compare |
| Hercules | 26,245 | $130,583 | $741,200 | Compare |
| Lemon Grove | 27,489 | $79,278 | $640,600 | Compare |
| Wasco | 26,222 | $55,521 | $251,900 | 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 Benicia With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Benicia
What is the population of Benicia, CA?
The population of Benicia, CA is 26,861 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 Benicia?
The median household income in Benicia, CA is $125,040 per year, which is 66% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Benicia?
The median home value in Benicia, CA is $778,600, which is 218% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Benicia?
The median monthly rent in Benicia, CA is $2,234, which is 92% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Benicia?
The unemployment rate in Benicia, CA is 4.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Benicia, CA a good place to live?
Benicia offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 26,861 and a median age of 45.1, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Benicia, CA?
45.5% of residents in Benicia aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Benicia?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Benicia, CA: median home value is $778,600 (218% above national), median rent is $2,234/month, and median household income is $125,040. The home-value-to-income ratio is 6.2x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Benicia?
The poverty rate in Benicia, CA is 6.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Benicia, CA?
Benicia's population is 9.3% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 5.1% Asian, and 3.5% two or more races. 13.8% of residents are foreign-born.