Isla Vista, CA
Population 13,717 · California
About Isla Vista, CA
Isla Vista is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 13,717 residents. The median household income is $24,428 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Isla Vista is 21.2 years.
Housing in Isla Vista has a median home value of $1,241,700 and median monthly rent of $1,856. Of the 5,166 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 45 owner-occupied and 4,544 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Isla Vista is 17.1% and the poverty rate is 69.3%. 40.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 15.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Isla Vista, CA
Compared to national averages, Isla Vista has a median household income of $24,428 (67% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,241,700, which is 407% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,856 is 60% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Isla Vista's income is 75% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 90% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Isla Vista, CA?
Isla Vista offers a well-educated community where 40.8% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 15.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($24,428) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,241,700. However, Isla Vista’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Isla Vista has a population of 13,717 with a median age of 21.2 years. Compare Isla Vista with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Isla Vista
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn | 13,758 | $77,760 | $642,400 | Compare |
| Oak Park | 13,656 | $160,484 | $1,017,100 | Compare |
| Hawaiian Gardens | 13,816 | $76,025 | $509,600 | Compare |
| North Auburn | 13,833 | $72,125 | $503,400 | Compare |
| King City | 13,512 | $63,090 | $395,800 | Compare |
| Lamont | 13,481 | $34,436 | $210,700 | Compare |
| Lake Los Angeles | 13,479 | $60,999 | $284,800 | Compare |
| Avenal | 13,441 | $52,986 | $224,800 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Isla Vista
What is the population of Isla Vista, CA?
The population of Isla Vista, CA is 13,717 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Isla Vista?
The median household income in Isla Vista, CA is $24,428 per year.
What is the median home value in Isla Vista?
The median home value in Isla Vista, CA is $1,241,700.
What is the average rent in Isla Vista?
The median monthly rent in Isla Vista, CA is $1,856.
What is the unemployment rate in Isla Vista?
The unemployment rate in Isla Vista, CA is 17.1%.