French Gulch, CA
Population 221 · California
About French Gulch, CA
French Gulch is a small community located in California with a population of 221 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $32,188 per year, which is 57% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 57.8 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in French Gulch features a median home value of $84,100, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. This makes French Gulch one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,350, 16% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 112 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (69 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (16 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in French Gulch shows an unemployment rate of 3.1%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 7.7%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in French Gulch have an average one-way commute time of 31.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.5% of French Gulch 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 5.0% White, 3.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.3% Asian residents, with 6.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How French Gulch Ranks in California
Cost of Living in French Gulch, CA
Compared to national averages, French Gulch has a median household income of $32,188 (57% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $84,100, which is 66% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,350 is 16% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, French Gulch's income is 67% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 87% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in French Gulch, CA?
French Gulch offers affordable housing with a median home value of $84,100, below the US average of $244,900, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.1%, and a low poverty rate of 7.7%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($32,188) that falls below the national average. However, French Gulch’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
French Gulch has a population of 221 with a median age of 57.8 years. Compare French Gulch with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near French Gulch
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Topaz | 221 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Amador City | 222 | $69,844 | $356,300 | Compare |
| Lindcove | 223 | $52,292 | $329,200 | Compare |
| Dillon Beach | 224 | $206,793 | $1,564,200 | Compare |
| Mexican Colony | 217 | $53,715 | $90,000 | Compare |
| Montgomery Creek | 227 | $36,563 | $0 | Compare |
| Albion | 214 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Sierra City | 213 | $92,543 | $380,600 | 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 French Gulch
What is the population of French Gulch, CA?
The population of French Gulch, CA is 221 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in California.
What is the median household income in French Gulch?
The median household income in French Gulch, CA is $32,188 per year, which is 57% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in French Gulch?
The median home value in French Gulch, CA is $84,100, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in French Gulch?
The median monthly rent in French Gulch, CA is $1,350, which is 16% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in French Gulch?
The unemployment rate in French Gulch, CA is 3.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is French Gulch, CA a good place to live?
French Gulch offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 221 and a median age of 57.8, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is French Gulch, CA?
14.5% of residents in French Gulch 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 French Gulch?
Key cost-of-living indicators for French Gulch, CA: median home value is $84,100 (66% below national), median rent is $1,350/month, and median household income is $32,188. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in French Gulch?
The poverty rate in French Gulch, CA is 7.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is French Gulch, CA?
French Gulch's population is 5.0% White, 3.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.3% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 6.3% of residents are foreign-born.