Imperial, CA
Population 20,943 · California
About Imperial, CA
Imperial is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 20,943 residents. The median household income is $83,214 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Imperial is 32.9 years.
Housing in Imperial has a median home value of $344,700 and median monthly rent of $1,396. Of the 6,876 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 3,944 owner-occupied and 2,076 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Imperial is 8.5% and the poverty rate is 12.4%. 20.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 18.2 minutes.
Cost of Living in Imperial, CA
Compared to national averages, Imperial has a median household income of $83,214 (11% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $344,700, which is 41% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,396 is 20% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Imperial's income is 15% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 47% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Imperial, CA?
Imperial offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $83,214, well above the national average, and short commute times averaging just 18.2 minutes.
Imperial has a population of 20,943 with a median age of 32.9 years. Compare Imperial with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Imperial
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rosamond | 20,835 | $77,773 | $330,100 | Compare |
| Shafter | 20,618 | $67,989 | $306,800 | Compare |
| Stevenson Ranch | 21,317 | $146,404 | $1,033,300 | Compare |
| South Lake Tahoe | 21,319 | $73,940 | $630,200 | Compare |
| Granite Bay | 21,378 | $190,000 | $1,094,100 | Compare |
| Lomita | 20,409 | $92,920 | $792,100 | Compare |
| East Hemet | 20,292 | $80,621 | $370,300 | Compare |
| Lennox | 20,289 | $60,307 | $677,600 | 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 Imperial
What is the population of Imperial, CA?
The population of Imperial, CA is 20,943 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Imperial?
The median household income in Imperial, CA is $83,214 per year.
What is the median home value in Imperial?
The median home value in Imperial, CA is $344,700.
What is the average rent in Imperial?
The median monthly rent in Imperial, CA is $1,396.
What is the unemployment rate in Imperial?
The unemployment rate in Imperial, CA is 8.5%.