Chowchilla, CA
Population 18,876 · California
About Chowchilla, CA
Chowchilla is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 18,876 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $63,308 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.6 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 Chowchilla features a median home value of $331,500, which is 35% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Chowchilla in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,204, 4% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,284 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (2,365 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (1,646 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Chowchilla shows an unemployment rate of 9.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 22.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Chowchilla have an average one-way commute time of 26.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.7% of Chowchilla 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 46.7% White, 4.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 2.1% Asian residents, with 14.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Chowchilla, CA
Compared to national averages, Chowchilla has a median household income of $63,308 (16% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $331,500, which is 35% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,204 is 4% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Chowchilla's income is 35% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 49% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Chowchilla, CA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,308) that falls below the national average. However, Chowchilla’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Chowchilla has a population of 18,876 with a median age of 34.6 years. Compare Chowchilla with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Chowchilla
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pinole | 18,835 | $120,833 | $697,100 | Compare |
| Olivehurst | 19,071 | $80,477 | $337,300 | Compare |
| Dixon | 19,158 | $98,798 | $575,600 | Compare |
| Arcata | 18,578 | $48,731 | $466,600 | Compare |
| Coronado | 18,558 | $135,056 | $1,998,900 | Compare |
| Hermosa Beach | 19,248 | $152,019 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Valle Vista | 19,263 | $61,799 | $315,400 | Compare |
| Castaic | 18,479 | $132,153 | $710,400 | 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 Chowchilla With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Chowchilla
What is the population of Chowchilla, CA?
The population of Chowchilla, CA is 18,876 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 Chowchilla?
The median household income in Chowchilla, CA is $63,308 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Chowchilla?
The median home value in Chowchilla, CA is $331,500, which is 35% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Chowchilla?
The median monthly rent in Chowchilla, CA is $1,204, which is 4% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Chowchilla?
The unemployment rate in Chowchilla, CA is 9.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Chowchilla, CA a good place to live?
Chowchilla offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 18,876 and a median age of 34.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Chowchilla, CA?
16.7% of residents in Chowchilla 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 Chowchilla?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Chowchilla, CA: median home value is $331,500 (35% above national), median rent is $1,204/month, and median household income is $63,308. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.2x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Chowchilla?
The poverty rate in Chowchilla, CA is 22.2%, 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 Chowchilla, CA?
Chowchilla's population is 46.7% White, 4.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 2.1% Asian, and 5.8% two or more races. 14.6% of residents are foreign-born.