Carlsbad, CA
Population 114,500 · California
About Carlsbad, CA
Carlsbad is a major city in California with a population of 114,500 residents. The median household income is $139,326 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Carlsbad is 42.8 years.
Housing in Carlsbad has a median home value of $1,156,900 and median monthly rent of $2,678. Of the 47,460 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 27,854 owner-occupied and 16,127 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Carlsbad is 6.3% and the poverty rate is 6.9%. 61.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 28 minutes.
Cost of Living in Carlsbad, CA
Compared to national averages, Carlsbad has a median household income of $139,326 (85% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,156,900, which is 372% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,678 is 130% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Carlsbad's income is 42% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 77% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Carlsbad, CA?
Carlsbad offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $139,326, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 61.4% 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 $1,156,900. However, as a major city, Carlsbad provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Carlsbad has a population of 114,500 with a median age of 42.8 years. Compare Carlsbad with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Carlsbad
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Los Angeles | 114,617 | $68,378 | $613,600 | Compare |
| Richmond | 115,396 | $90,038 | $650,100 | Compare |
| Antioch | 115,759 | $94,256 | $607,400 | Compare |
| Downey | 111,793 | $87,400 | $728,500 | Compare |
| Murrieta | 111,621 | $109,780 | $606,900 | Compare |
| Costa Mesa | 110,538 | $110,073 | $1,054,700 | Compare |
| Temecula | 110,404 | $117,840 | $640,400 | Compare |
| San Buenaventura (Ventura) | 109,900 | $100,407 | $778,700 | 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 Carlsbad
What is the population of Carlsbad, CA?
The population of Carlsbad, CA is 114,500 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Carlsbad?
The median household income in Carlsbad, CA is $139,326 per year.
What is the median home value in Carlsbad?
The median home value in Carlsbad, CA is $1,156,900.
What is the average rent in Carlsbad?
The median monthly rent in Carlsbad, CA is $2,678.
What is the unemployment rate in Carlsbad?
The unemployment rate in Carlsbad, CA is 6.3%.