Lake Elsinore, CA
Population 71,516 · California
About Lake Elsinore, CA
Lake Elsinore is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 71,516 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $96,527 per year, which is 28% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.4 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 Lake Elsinore features a median home value of $505,700, which is 106% above the national median of $244,900. This places Lake Elsinore in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,915, 65% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 21,554 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (14,610 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (5,806 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lake Elsinore shows an unemployment rate of 6.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 9.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Lake Elsinore have an average one-way commute time of 42.2 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
23.0% of Lake Elsinore 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 43.0% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, and 8.4% Asian residents, with 21.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Lake Elsinore, CA
Compared to national averages, Lake Elsinore has a median household income of $96,527 (28% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $505,700, which is 106% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,915 is 65% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Lake Elsinore's income is 1% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 23% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Lake Elsinore, CA?
Lake Elsinore offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $96,527, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 9.4%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $505,700. However, as a mid-sized city, Lake Elsinore provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Lake Elsinore has a population of 71,516 with a median age of 33.4 years. Compare Lake Elsinore with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Lake Elsinore
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baldwin Park | 70,720 | $79,087 | $588,100 | Compare |
| Rocklin | 72,340 | $120,916 | $673,300 | Compare |
| Turlock | 72,400 | $79,807 | $443,900 | Compare |
| Dublin | 70,542 | $205,046 | $1,224,100 | Compare |
| Camarillo | 70,244 | $109,390 | $766,100 | Compare |
| Eastvale | 70,179 | $161,322 | $752,000 | Compare |
| Redlands | 72,985 | $99,158 | $583,000 | Compare |
| Tulare | 69,984 | $69,517 | $301,200 | 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 Lake Elsinore With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Elsinore
What is the population of Lake Elsinore, CA?
The population of Lake Elsinore, CA is 71,516 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 Lake Elsinore?
The median household income in Lake Elsinore, CA is $96,527 per year, which is 28% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lake Elsinore?
The median home value in Lake Elsinore, CA is $505,700, which is 106% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Lake Elsinore?
The median monthly rent in Lake Elsinore, CA is $1,915, which is 65% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lake Elsinore?
The unemployment rate in Lake Elsinore, CA is 6.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Lake Elsinore, CA a good place to live?
Lake Elsinore offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 71,516 and a median age of 33.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Lake Elsinore, CA?
23.0% of residents in Lake Elsinore 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 Lake Elsinore?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lake Elsinore, CA: median home value is $505,700 (106% above national), median rent is $1,915/month, and median household income is $96,527. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.2x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Lake Elsinore?
The poverty rate in Lake Elsinore, CA is 9.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Lake Elsinore, CA?
Lake Elsinore's population is 43.0% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, 8.4% Asian, and 5.7% two or more races. 21.0% of residents are foreign-born.