La Mesa, CA
Population 60,835 · California
About La Mesa, CA
La Mesa is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 60,835 residents. The median household income is $84,337 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in La Mesa is 37.1 years.
Housing in La Mesa has a median home value of $738,800 and median monthly rent of $1,958. Of the 26,420 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 11,581 owner-occupied and 13,597 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in La Mesa is 6.3% and the poverty rate is 11.7%. 38.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 24.9 minutes.
Cost of Living in La Mesa, CA
Compared to national averages, La Mesa has a median household income of $84,337 (12% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $738,800, which is 202% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,958 is 68% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, La Mesa's income is 14% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 13% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in La Mesa, CA?
La Mesa offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $84,337, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 38.4% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 11.7%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 24.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $738,800. However, as a mid-sized city, La Mesa provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
La Mesa has a population of 60,835 with a median age of 37.1 years. Compare La Mesa with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near La Mesa
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pico Rivera | 60,821 | $86,956 | $621,400 | Compare |
| Santa Cruz | 60,953 | $111,427 | $1,180,100 | Compare |
| San Rafael | 60,604 | $109,317 | $1,246,200 | Compare |
| Woodland | 61,256 | $87,880 | $505,200 | Compare |
| Montebello | 61,376 | $74,955 | $660,700 | Compare |
| Encinitas | 61,585 | $150,471 | $1,466,000 | Compare |
| Florence-Graham | 61,723 | $61,216 | $499,100 | Compare |
| Gardena | 59,765 | $79,291 | $667,600 | 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 La Mesa
What is the population of La Mesa, CA?
The population of La Mesa, CA is 60,835 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in La Mesa?
The median household income in La Mesa, CA is $84,337 per year.
What is the median home value in La Mesa?
The median home value in La Mesa, CA is $738,800.
What is the average rent in La Mesa?
The median monthly rent in La Mesa, CA is $1,958.
What is the unemployment rate in La Mesa?
The unemployment rate in La Mesa, CA is 6.3%.