Big Bear Lake, CA
Population 5,038 · California
About Big Bear Lake, CA
Big Bear Lake is a small community in California with a population of 5,038 residents. The median household income is $74,728 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Big Bear Lake is 45.5 years.
Housing in Big Bear Lake has a median home value of $517,900 and median monthly rent of $1,278. Of the 9,602 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,503 owner-occupied and 732 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Big Bear Lake is 6.5% and the poverty rate is 9.4%. 34.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 28.3 minutes.
Cost of Living in Big Bear Lake, CA
Compared to national averages, Big Bear Lake has a median household income of $74,728 (1% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $517,900, which is 111% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,278 is 10% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Big Bear Lake's income is 24% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 21% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Big Bear Lake, CA?
Big Bear Lake offers a well-educated community where 34.9% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 9.4%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($74,728) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $517,900. However, Big Bear Lake’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Big Bear Lake has a population of 5,038 with a median age of 45.5 years. Compare Big Bear Lake with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Big Bear Lake
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Running Springs | 5,043 | $85,681 | $373,300 | Compare |
| Myrtletown | 5,028 | $55,543 | $437,600 | Compare |
| Jackson | 5,061 | $75,051 | $432,600 | Compare |
| Lake of the Pines | 5,012 | $118,661 | $639,400 | Compare |
| Sunnyside | 5,003 | $114,500 | $489,300 | Compare |
| Lake San Marcos | 4,996 | $100,676 | $859,600 | Compare |
| Denair | 5,085 | $97,468 | $407,800 | Compare |
| Lakeport | 5,085 | $59,294 | $327,600 | 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 Big Bear Lake
What is the population of Big Bear Lake, CA?
The population of Big Bear Lake, CA is 5,038 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Big Bear Lake?
The median household income in Big Bear Lake, CA is $74,728 per year.
What is the median home value in Big Bear Lake?
The median home value in Big Bear Lake, CA is $517,900.
What is the average rent in Big Bear Lake?
The median monthly rent in Big Bear Lake, CA is $1,278.
What is the unemployment rate in Big Bear Lake?
The unemployment rate in Big Bear Lake, CA is 6.5%.