Costa Mesa, CA
Population 110,538 · California
About Costa Mesa, CA
Costa Mesa is a major city in California with a population of 110,538 residents. The median household income is $110,073 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Costa Mesa is 36.5 years.
Housing in Costa Mesa has a median home value of $1,054,700 and median monthly rent of $2,395. Of the 43,684 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 16,387 owner-occupied and 25,241 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Costa Mesa is 4.9% and the poverty rate is 8.9%. 43.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 22.1 minutes.
Cost of Living in Costa Mesa, CA
Compared to national averages, Costa Mesa has a median household income of $110,073 (46% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,054,700, which is 331% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,395 is 106% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Costa Mesa's income is 13% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 61% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Costa Mesa, CA?
Costa Mesa offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $110,073, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 43.6% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 8.9%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,054,700. However, as a major city, Costa Mesa provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Costa Mesa has a population of 110,538 with a median age of 36.5 years. Compare Costa Mesa with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Costa Mesa
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temecula | 110,404 | $117,840 | $640,400 | Compare |
| San Buenaventura (Ventura) | 109,900 | $100,407 | $778,700 | Compare |
| Santa Maria | 109,880 | $84,617 | $478,200 | Compare |
| Murrieta | 111,621 | $109,780 | $606,900 | Compare |
| Downey | 111,793 | $87,400 | $728,500 | Compare |
| West Covina | 107,436 | $98,570 | $712,300 | Compare |
| El Monte | 107,066 | $64,484 | $626,000 | Compare |
| Menifee | 107,020 | $89,183 | $487,200 | 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 Costa Mesa
What is the population of Costa Mesa, CA?
The population of Costa Mesa, CA is 110,538 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Costa Mesa?
The median household income in Costa Mesa, CA is $110,073 per year.
What is the median home value in Costa Mesa?
The median home value in Costa Mesa, CA is $1,054,700.
What is the average rent in Costa Mesa?
The median monthly rent in Costa Mesa, CA is $2,395.
What is the unemployment rate in Costa Mesa?
The unemployment rate in Costa Mesa, CA is 4.9%.