Berkeley, CA
Population 120,223 · California
About Berkeley, CA
Berkeley is a major city in California with a population of 120,223 residents. The median household income is $108,558 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Berkeley is 32.9 years.
Housing in Berkeley has a median home value of $1,351,100 and median monthly rent of $2,127. Of the 52,112 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 20,262 owner-occupied and 26,500 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Berkeley is 6.0% and the poverty rate is 16.8%. 75.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 29.9 minutes.
Cost of Living in Berkeley, CA
Compared to national averages, Berkeley has a median household income of $108,558 (44% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,351,100, which is 452% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,127 is 83% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Berkeley's income is 11% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 107% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Berkeley, CA?
Berkeley offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $108,558, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 75.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,351,100. However, as a major city, Berkeley provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Berkeley has a population of 120,223 with a median age of 32.9 years. Compare Berkeley with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Berkeley
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fairfield | 119,985 | $102,321 | $592,500 | Compare |
| Clovis | 122,719 | $100,360 | $453,300 | Compare |
| Concord | 124,260 | $109,195 | $755,900 | Compare |
| Vallejo | 124,637 | $89,496 | $557,500 | Compare |
| Antioch | 115,759 | $94,256 | $607,400 | Compare |
| Richmond | 115,396 | $90,038 | $650,100 | Compare |
| Thousand Oaks | 125,676 | $134,367 | $951,200 | Compare |
| Simi Valley | 125,769 | $117,703 | $753,500 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Berkeley
What is the population of Berkeley, CA?
The population of Berkeley, CA is 120,223 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Berkeley?
The median household income in Berkeley, CA is $108,558 per year.
What is the median home value in Berkeley?
The median home value in Berkeley, CA is $1,351,100.
What is the average rent in Berkeley?
The median monthly rent in Berkeley, CA is $2,127.
What is the unemployment rate in Berkeley?
The unemployment rate in Berkeley, CA is 6.0%.