Imperial Beach, CA
Population 25,897 · California
About Imperial Beach, CA
Imperial Beach is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 25,897 residents. The median household income is $79,071 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Imperial Beach is 35.2 years.
Housing in Imperial Beach has a median home value of $811,000 and median monthly rent of $1,914. Of the 10,276 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 2,854 owner-occupied and 6,454 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Imperial Beach is 7.7% and the poverty rate is 15.2%. 23.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 27.6 minutes.
Cost of Living in Imperial Beach, CA
Compared to national averages, Imperial Beach has a median household income of $79,071 (5% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $811,000, which is 231% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,914 is 65% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Imperial Beach's income is 19% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 24% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Imperial Beach, CA?
Imperial Beach offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $79,071, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $811,000. However, Imperial Beach’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Imperial Beach has a population of 25,897 with a median age of 35.2 years. Compare Imperial Beach with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Imperial Beach
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Tustin | 26,038 | $186,250 | $1,212,400 | Compare |
| Galt | 25,665 | $86,327 | $465,700 | Compare |
| Windsor | 26,179 | $129,004 | $763,200 | Compare |
| Wasco | 26,222 | $55,521 | $251,900 | Compare |
| Hercules | 26,245 | $130,583 | $741,200 | Compare |
| South Pasadena | 26,297 | $128,105 | $1,545,100 | Compare |
| Eureka | 26,302 | $60,253 | $375,800 | Compare |
| West Whittier-Los Nietos | 25,459 | $101,138 | $607,100 | 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 Beach
What is the population of Imperial Beach, CA?
The population of Imperial Beach, CA is 25,897 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Imperial Beach?
The median household income in Imperial Beach, CA is $79,071 per year.
What is the median home value in Imperial Beach?
The median home value in Imperial Beach, CA is $811,000.
What is the average rent in Imperial Beach?
The median monthly rent in Imperial Beach, CA is $1,914.
What is the unemployment rate in Imperial Beach?
The unemployment rate in Imperial Beach, CA is 7.7%.