Madera, CA
Population 67,133 · California
About Madera, CA
Madera is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 67,133 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $63,619 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 30.4 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 Madera features a median home value of $335,900, which is 37% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Madera in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,237, 6% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 18,543 total housing units, 52% are owner-occupied (9,026 units) and 48% are renter-occupied (8,430 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Madera shows an unemployment rate of 11.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 26.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Madera have an average one-way commute time of 26.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
10.3% of Madera 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 76.7% White, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 3.1% Asian residents, with 26.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Madera, CA
Compared to national averages, Madera has a median household income of $63,619 (15% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $335,900, which is 37% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,237 is 6% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Madera's income is 35% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 49% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Madera, CA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,619) that falls below the national average. However, as a mid-sized city, Madera provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Madera has a population of 67,133 with a median age of 30.4 years. Compare Madera with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Madera
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palo Alto | 67,231 | $220,408 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Lodi | 67,008 | $84,402 | $468,800 | Compare |
| Yorba Linda | 67,407 | $152,060 | $1,091,700 | Compare |
| Davis | 66,801 | $87,421 | $829,000 | Compare |
| Union City | 68,141 | $137,194 | $1,058,200 | Compare |
| Castro Valley | 65,389 | $138,069 | $1,058,200 | Compare |
| Lynwood | 65,291 | $70,236 | $569,400 | Compare |
| Yuba City | 69,545 | $72,322 | $405,900 | 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 Madera With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Madera
What is the population of Madera, CA?
The population of Madera, CA is 67,133 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 Madera?
The median household income in Madera, CA is $63,619 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Madera?
The median home value in Madera, CA is $335,900, which is 37% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Madera?
The median monthly rent in Madera, CA is $1,237, which is 6% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Madera?
The unemployment rate in Madera, CA is 11.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Madera, CA a good place to live?
Madera offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 67,133 and a median age of 30.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Madera, CA?
10.3% of residents in Madera 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 Madera?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Madera, CA: median home value is $335,900 (37% above national), median rent is $1,237/month, and median household income is $63,619. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Madera?
The poverty rate in Madera, CA is 26.0%, 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 Madera, CA?
Madera's population is 76.7% White, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 3.1% Asian, and 3.0% two or more races. 26.7% of residents are foreign-born.