Colton, CA
Population 53,798 · California
About Colton, CA
Colton is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 53,798 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $69,581 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.9 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 Colton features a median home value of $411,100, which is 68% above the national median of $244,900. This places Colton in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,608, 38% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 18,131 total housing units, 52% are owner-occupied (8,990 units) and 48% are renter-occupied (8,201 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Colton shows an unemployment rate of 6.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Colton have an average one-way commute time of 28.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.7% of Colton 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 68.5% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 5.3% Asian residents, with 23.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Colton, CA
Compared to national averages, Colton has a median household income of $69,581 (7% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $411,100, which is 68% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,608 is 38% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Colton's income is 29% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 37% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Colton, CA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($69,581) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $411,100. However, as a mid-sized city, Colton provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Colton has a population of 53,798 with a median age of 33.9 years. Compare Colton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Colton
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond Bar | 53,750 | $106,602 | $867,000 | Compare |
| Huntington Park | 53,658 | $56,952 | $557,600 | Compare |
| Yucaipa | 54,348 | $92,401 | $466,000 | Compare |
| West Sacramento | 54,496 | $90,791 | $497,100 | Compare |
| San Jacinto | 54,756 | $78,281 | $391,600 | Compare |
| Beaumont | 54,817 | $105,164 | $464,000 | Compare |
| Novato | 52,689 | $112,193 | $1,007,100 | Compare |
| Hacienda Heights | 54,956 | $106,620 | $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.
Compare Colton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Colton
What is the population of Colton, CA?
The population of Colton, CA is 53,798 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 Colton?
The median household income in Colton, CA is $69,581 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Colton?
The median home value in Colton, CA is $411,100, which is 68% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Colton?
The median monthly rent in Colton, CA is $1,608, which is 38% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Colton?
The unemployment rate in Colton, CA is 6.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Colton, CA a good place to live?
Colton offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 53,798 and a median age of 33.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Colton, CA?
16.7% of residents in Colton 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 Colton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Colton, CA: median home value is $411,100 (68% above national), median rent is $1,608/month, and median household income is $69,581. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.9x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Colton?
The poverty rate in Colton, CA is 15.3%, 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 Colton, CA?
Colton's population is 68.5% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 5.3% Asian, and 8.1% two or more races. 23.4% of residents are foreign-born.