Chico, CA
Population 102,032 · California
About Chico, CA
Chico is a major city located in California with a population of 102,032 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $67,929 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31 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 Chico features a median home value of $455,300, which is 86% above the national median of $244,900. This places Chico in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,442, 24% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 45,451 total housing units, 44% are owner-occupied (18,590 units) and 56% are renter-occupied (23,344 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Chico shows an unemployment rate of 6.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 22.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Chico have an average one-way commute time of 17.3 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
41.3% of Chico residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 17.2% White, 2.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, and 2.7% Asian residents, with 8.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Chico, CA
Compared to national averages, Chico has a median household income of $67,929 (10% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $455,300, which is 86% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,442 is 24% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Chico's income is 31% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 30% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Chico, CA?
Chico offers a well-educated community where 41.3% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 17.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($67,929) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $455,300. However, as a major city, Chico provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Chico has a population of 102,032 with a median age of 31 years. Compare Chico with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Chico
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vacaville | 102,085 | $108,580 | $596,700 | Compare |
| Daly City | 102,560 | $119,570 | $1,092,700 | Compare |
| Norwalk | 100,713 | $98,709 | $616,600 | Compare |
| San Mateo | 103,555 | $152,669 | $1,563,200 | Compare |
| Rialto | 103,866 | $85,521 | $454,400 | Compare |
| Hesperia | 100,141 | $68,971 | $366,800 | Compare |
| El Cajon | 104,909 | $66,478 | $632,800 | Compare |
| Vista | 98,646 | $91,854 | $674,400 | 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 Chico With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Chico
What is the population of Chico, CA?
The population of Chico, CA is 102,032 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in California.
What is the median household income in Chico?
The median household income in Chico, CA is $67,929 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Chico?
The median home value in Chico, CA is $455,300, which is 86% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Chico?
The median monthly rent in Chico, CA is $1,442, which is 24% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Chico?
The unemployment rate in Chico, CA is 6.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Chico, CA a good place to live?
Chico offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 102,032 and a median age of 31, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Chico, CA?
41.3% of residents in Chico aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Chico?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Chico, CA: median home value is $455,300 (86% above national), median rent is $1,442/month, and median household income is $67,929. The home-value-to-income ratio is 6.7x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Chico?
The poverty rate in Chico, CA is 22.1%, 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 Chico, CA?
Chico's population is 17.2% White, 2.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, 2.7% Asian, and 1.9% two or more races. 8.1% of residents are foreign-born.