California City, CA
Population 14,821 · California
About California City, CA
California City is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 14,821 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,271 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.8 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 California City features a median home value of $239,600, which is 2% below the national median of $244,900. This positions California City in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,016, 13% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,377 total housing units, 57% are owner-occupied (2,666 units) and 43% are renter-occupied (2,006 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in California City shows an unemployment rate of 18.5%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 24.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in California City have an average one-way commute time of 46.6 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
11.1% of California City 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 29.4% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, and 9.7% Asian residents, with 13.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in California City, CA
Compared to national averages, California City has a median household income of $55,271 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $239,600, which is 2% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,016 is 13% below the US average of $1,163. Within California, California City's income is 44% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 63% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in California City, CA?
California City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $239,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,016/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,271) that falls below the national average. However, California City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
California City has a population of 14,821 with a median age of 33.8 years. Compare California City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near California City
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lemon Hill | 14,942 | $49,441 | $328,000 | Compare |
| Susanville | 14,992 | $57,607 | $234,000 | Compare |
| Pacific Grove | 15,003 | $105,568 | $1,129,400 | Compare |
| Camp Pendleton South | 15,011 | $66,265 | $0 | Compare |
| Los Osos | 15,048 | $103,504 | $728,000 | Compare |
| Red Bluff | 14,592 | $50,216 | $271,100 | Compare |
| Cherryland | 14,575 | $84,858 | $654,200 | Compare |
| Parlier | 14,545 | $50,910 | $236,100 | 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 California City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about California City
What is the population of California City, CA?
The population of California City, CA is 14,821 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 California City?
The median household income in California City, CA is $55,271 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in California City?
The median home value in California City, CA is $239,600, which is 2% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in California City?
The median monthly rent in California City, CA is $1,016, which is 13% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in California City?
The unemployment rate in California City, CA is 18.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is California City, CA a good place to live?
California City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 14,821 and a median age of 33.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is California City, CA?
11.1% of residents in California City 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 California City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for California City, CA: median home value is $239,600 (2% below national), median rent is $1,016/month, and median household income is $55,271. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in California City?
The poverty rate in California City, CA is 24.3%, 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 California City, CA?
California City's population is 29.4% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, 9.7% Asian, and 22.3% two or more races. 13.3% of residents are foreign-born.