Fresno, CA
Population 543,615 · California
About Fresno, CA
Fresno is a major city located in California with a population of 543,615 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $66,804 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.4 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 Fresno features a median home value of $348,500, which is 42% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Fresno in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,324, 14% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 188,013 total housing units, 50% are owner-occupied (89,235 units) and 50% are renter-occupied (90,449 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Fresno shows an unemployment rate of 8.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 20.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Fresno have an average one-way commute time of 22.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
24.9% of Fresno 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 46.8% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 3.3% Asian residents, with 19.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Fresno Ranks in California
Cost of Living in Fresno, CA
Compared to national averages, Fresno has a median household income of $66,804 (11% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $348,500, which is 42% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,324 is 14% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Fresno's income is 32% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 47% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Fresno, CA?
Fresno offers short commute times averaging just 22.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($66,804) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Fresno provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Fresno has a population of 543,615 with a median age of 32.4 years. Compare Fresno with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Fresno
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sacramento | 524,802 | $83,753 | $484,600 | Compare |
| Long Beach | 458,491 | $83,969 | $762,200 | Compare |
| Oakland | 438,072 | $97,369 | $924,700 | Compare |
| Bakersfield | 408,366 | $77,397 | $347,300 | Compare |
| Anaheim | 344,553 | $90,583 | $771,700 | Compare |
| Stockton | 320,470 | $76,851 | $412,900 | Compare |
| Riverside | 316,241 | $88,575 | $542,100 | Compare |
| Santa Ana | 311,639 | $88,354 | $657,800 | 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 Fresno With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Fresno
What is the population of Fresno, CA?
The population of Fresno, CA is 543,615 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 Fresno?
The median household income in Fresno, CA is $66,804 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Fresno?
The median home value in Fresno, CA is $348,500, which is 42% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Fresno?
The median monthly rent in Fresno, CA is $1,324, which is 14% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Fresno?
The unemployment rate in Fresno, CA is 8.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Fresno, CA a good place to live?
Fresno offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 543,615 and a median age of 32.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Fresno, CA?
24.9% of residents in Fresno 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 Fresno?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Fresno, CA: median home value is $348,500 (42% above national), median rent is $1,324/month, and median household income is $66,804. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.2x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Fresno?
The poverty rate in Fresno, CA is 20.9%, 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 Fresno, CA?
Fresno's population is 46.8% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 3.3% Asian, and 6.3% two or more races. 19.0% of residents are foreign-born.