Bethel Island, CA
Population 2,144 · California
About Bethel Island, CA
Bethel Island is a small town located in California with a population of 2,144 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $78,393 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 54.5 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 Bethel Island features a median home value of $549,500, which is 124% above the national median of $244,900. This places Bethel Island in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,390, 20% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,072 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (646 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (254 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bethel Island shows an unemployment rate of 31.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 29.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Bethel Island have an average one-way commute time of 28.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.6% of Bethel Island 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 25.4% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 26.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Bethel Island, CA
Compared to national averages, Bethel Island has a median household income of $78,393 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $549,500, which is 124% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,390 is 20% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Bethel Island's income is 20% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 16% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Bethel Island, CA?
Bethel Island offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $78,393, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $549,500. However, Bethel Island’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bethel Island has a population of 2,144 with a median age of 54.5 years. Compare Bethel Island with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Bethel Island
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caruthers | 2,143 | $64,722 | $288,000 | Compare |
| Calwa | 2,140 | $63,232 | $196,900 | Compare |
| Richgrove | 2,136 | $54,091 | $201,200 | Compare |
| Penngrove | 2,123 | $115,826 | $1,193,100 | Compare |
| San Juan Bautista | 2,120 | $108,750 | $707,100 | Compare |
| Redwood Valley | 2,117 | $53,163 | $549,100 | Compare |
| Clearlake Oaks | 2,174 | $38,669 | $206,000 | Compare |
| Lakeview | 2,177 | $63,750 | $492,100 | 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 Bethel Island With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Bethel Island
What is the population of Bethel Island, CA?
The population of Bethel Island, CA is 2,144 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in California.
What is the median household income in Bethel Island?
The median household income in Bethel Island, CA is $78,393 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bethel Island?
The median home value in Bethel Island, CA is $549,500, which is 124% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Bethel Island?
The median monthly rent in Bethel Island, CA is $1,390, which is 20% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bethel Island?
The unemployment rate in Bethel Island, CA is 31.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Bethel Island, CA a good place to live?
Bethel Island offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,144 and a median age of 54.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Bethel Island, CA?
21.6% of residents in Bethel Island 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 Bethel Island?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bethel Island, CA: median home value is $549,500 (124% above national), median rent is $1,390/month, and median household income is $78,393. The home-value-to-income ratio is 7.0x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Bethel Island?
The poverty rate in Bethel Island, CA is 29.8%, 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 Bethel Island, CA?
Bethel Island's population is 25.4% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 26.7% of residents are foreign-born.