Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Population 3,186 · California
About Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small community in California with a population of 3,186 residents. The median household income is $115,729 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Carmel-by-the-Sea is 68.9 years.
Housing in Carmel-by-the-Sea has a median home value of $2,000,001 and median monthly rent of $2,933. Of the 3,250 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 977 owner-occupied and 710 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Carmel-by-the-Sea is 3.5% and the poverty rate is 4.9%. 76.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 11.2 minutes.
Cost of Living in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Compared to national averages, Carmel-by-the-Sea has a median household income of $115,729 (54% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $2,000,001, which is 717% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,933 is 152% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Carmel-by-the-Sea's income is 18% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 206% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA?
Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $115,729, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.5%, and a well-educated community where 76.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 4.9%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 11.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $2,000,001. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Carmel-by-the-Sea has a population of 3,186 with a median age of 68.9 years. Compare Carmel-by-the-Sea with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Carmel-by-the-Sea
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dogtown | 3,180 | $126,042 | $696,700 | Compare |
| Hayfork | 3,198 | $45,918 | $291,300 | Compare |
| Weaverville | 3,198 | $73,670 | $342,500 | Compare |
| Pine Hills | 3,200 | $83,791 | $451,500 | Compare |
| Nevada City | 3,168 | $69,552 | $607,300 | Compare |
| Mount Shasta | 3,208 | $48,157 | $283,100 | Compare |
| Arbuckle | 3,209 | $83,677 | $388,600 | Compare |
| Freedom | 3,211 | $139,722 | $664,200 | 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea
What is the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA?
The population of Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is 3,186 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
The median household income in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is $115,729 per year.
What is the median home value in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
The median home value in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is $2,000,001.
What is the average rent in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
The median monthly rent in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is $2,933.
What is the unemployment rate in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
The unemployment rate in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is 3.5%.