Goleta, CA
Population 32,693 · California
About Goleta, CA
Goleta is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 32,693 residents. The median household income is $118,039 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Goleta is 35.5 years.
Housing in Goleta has a median home value of $1,002,500 and median monthly rent of $2,385. Of the 12,727 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 6,216 owner-occupied and 5,919 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Goleta is 4.3% and the poverty rate is 10.6%. 48.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 18.9 minutes.
Cost of Living in Goleta, CA
Compared to national averages, Goleta has a median household income of $118,039 (57% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,002,500, which is 309% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,385 is 105% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Goleta's income is 21% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 53% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Goleta, CA?
Goleta offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $118,039, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 48.3% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 10.6%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 18.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,002,500. However, Goleta’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Goleta has a population of 32,693 with a median age of 35.5 years. Compare Goleta with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Goleta
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lathrop | 32,696 | $118,605 | $605,000 | Compare |
| Los Gatos | 32,773 | $207,891 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Menlo Park | 32,775 | $206,588 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Desert Hot Springs | 32,786 | $50,349 | $309,300 | Compare |
| Bell | 32,830 | $60,641 | $561,400 | Compare |
| Dana Point | 32,883 | $127,246 | $1,200,900 | Compare |
| Fallbrook | 32,467 | $87,293 | $713,000 | Compare |
| Foster City | 32,964 | $193,633 | $1,774,500 | 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 Goleta With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Goleta
What is the population of Goleta, CA?
The population of Goleta, CA is 32,693 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Goleta?
The median household income in Goleta, CA is $118,039 per year.
What is the median home value in Goleta?
The median home value in Goleta, CA is $1,002,500.
What is the average rent in Goleta?
The median monthly rent in Goleta, CA is $2,385.
What is the unemployment rate in Goleta?
The unemployment rate in Goleta, CA is 4.3%.