Imperial, CA
Population 20,943 · California
About Imperial, CA
Imperial is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 20,943 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $83,214 per year, which is 11% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.9 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 Imperial features a median home value of $344,700, which is 41% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Imperial in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,396, 20% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 6,876 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (3,944 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (2,076 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Imperial shows an unemployment rate of 8.5%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 12.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Imperial have an average one-way commute time of 18.2 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
20.3% of Imperial 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 82.3% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 0.8% Asian residents, with 25.9% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Imperial With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Imperial
What is the population of Imperial, CA?
The population of Imperial, CA is 20,943 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in California.
What is the median household income in Imperial?
The median household income in Imperial, CA is $83,214 per year, which is 11% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Imperial?
The median home value in Imperial, CA is $344,700, which is 41% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Imperial?
The median monthly rent in Imperial, CA is $1,396, which is 20% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Imperial?
The unemployment rate in Imperial, CA is 8.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Imperial, CA a good place to live?
Imperial offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 20,943 and a median age of 32.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Imperial, CA?
20.3% of residents in Imperial 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 Imperial?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Imperial, CA: median home value is $344,700 (41% above national), median rent is $1,396/month, and median household income is $83,214. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.1x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Imperial?
The poverty rate in Imperial, CA is 12.4%, 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 Imperial, CA?
Imperial's population is 82.3% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 0.8% Asian, and 0.8% two or more races. 25.9% of residents are foreign-born.