Foster City, CA
Population 32,964 · California
About Foster City, CA
Foster City is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 32,964 residents. The median household income is $193,633 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Foster City is 39.7 years.
Housing in Foster City has a median home value of $1,774,500 and median monthly rent of $3,501. Of the 13,408 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 6,581 owner-occupied and 6,284 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Foster City is 4.8% and the poverty rate is 4.6%. 74.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 30.7 minutes.
Cost of Living in Foster City, CA
Compared to national averages, Foster City has a median household income of $193,633 (158% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,774,500, which is 625% above the national median. Monthly rent at $3,501 is 201% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Foster City's income is 98% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 171% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Foster City, CA?
Foster City offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $193,633, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 74.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 4.6%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,774,500. However, Foster City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Foster City has a population of 32,964 with a median age of 39.7 years. Compare Foster City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Foster City
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dana Point | 32,883 | $127,246 | $1,200,900 | Compare |
| Bell | 32,830 | $60,641 | $561,400 | Compare |
| Desert Hot Springs | 32,786 | $50,349 | $309,300 | Compare |
| Menlo Park | 32,775 | $206,588 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Los Gatos | 32,773 | $207,891 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Lathrop | 32,696 | $118,605 | $605,000 | Compare |
| Goleta | 32,693 | $118,039 | $1,002,500 | Compare |
| Fallbrook | 32,467 | $87,293 | $713,000 | 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 Foster City
What is the population of Foster City, CA?
The population of Foster City, CA is 32,964 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Foster City?
The median household income in Foster City, CA is $193,633 per year.
What is the median home value in Foster City?
The median home value in Foster City, CA is $1,774,500.
What is the average rent in Foster City?
The median monthly rent in Foster City, CA is $3,501.
What is the unemployment rate in Foster City?
The unemployment rate in Foster City, CA is 4.8%.