Downey, CA
Population 111,793 · California
About Downey, CA
Downey is a major city located in California with a population of 111,793 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $87,400 per year, which is 16% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Downey features a median home value of $728,500, which is 197% above the national median of $244,900. This places Downey in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,892, 63% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 35,870 total housing units, 51% are owner-occupied (17,597 units) and 49% are renter-occupied (17,130 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Downey shows an unemployment rate of 5.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 9.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Downey have an average one-way commute time of 31 minutes.
Education & Demographics
25.6% of Downey 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 58.2% White, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, and 14.9% Asian residents, with 31.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Downey, CA
Compared to national averages, Downey has a median household income of $87,400 (16% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $728,500, which is 197% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,892 is 63% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Downey's income is 11% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 11% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Downey, CA?
Downey offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $87,400, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 9.1%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $728,500. However, as a major city, Downey provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Downey has a population of 111,793 with a median age of 37 years. Compare Downey with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Downey
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murrieta | 111,621 | $109,780 | $606,900 | Compare |
| Costa Mesa | 110,538 | $110,073 | $1,054,700 | Compare |
| 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 |
| Carlsbad | 114,500 | $139,326 | $1,156,900 | Compare |
| East Los Angeles | 114,617 | $68,378 | $613,600 | Compare |
| Richmond | 115,396 | $90,038 | $650,100 | 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 Downey With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Downey
What is the population of Downey, CA?
The population of Downey, CA is 111,793 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 Downey?
The median household income in Downey, CA is $87,400 per year, which is 16% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Downey?
The median home value in Downey, CA is $728,500, which is 197% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Downey?
The median monthly rent in Downey, CA is $1,892, which is 63% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Downey?
The unemployment rate in Downey, CA is 5.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Downey, CA a good place to live?
Downey offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 111,793 and a median age of 37, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Downey, CA?
25.6% of residents in Downey 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 Downey?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Downey, CA: median home value is $728,500 (197% above national), median rent is $1,892/month, and median household income is $87,400. The home-value-to-income ratio is 8.3x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Downey?
The poverty rate in Downey, CA is 9.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Downey, CA?
Downey's population is 58.2% White, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, 14.9% Asian, and 3.3% two or more races. 31.9% of residents are foreign-born.