McFarland, CA
Population 14,138 · California
About McFarland, CA
McFarland is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 14,138 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $51,801 per year, which is 31% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 26.7 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 McFarland features a median home value of $245,500, which is 0% above the national median of $244,900. This positions McFarland in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,067, 8% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,751 total housing units, 57% are owner-occupied (1,974 units) and 43% are renter-occupied (1,517 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in McFarland shows an unemployment rate of 9.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 27.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in McFarland have an average one-way commute time of 22.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
4.1% of McFarland 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 85.8% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 3.5% Asian residents, with 27.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in McFarland, CA
Compared to national averages, McFarland has a median household income of $51,801 (31% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $245,500, which is 0% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,067 is 8% below the US average of $1,163. Within California, McFarland's income is 47% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 62% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in McFarland, CA?
McFarland offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,067/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($51,801) that falls below the national average. However, McFarland’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
McFarland has a population of 14,138 with a median age of 26.7 years. Compare McFarland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near McFarland
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grass Valley | 14,126 | $48,850 | $458,400 | Compare |
| Mill Valley | 14,064 | $208,466 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| East Rancho Dominguez | 14,219 | $67,645 | $548,400 | Compare |
| Alamo | 14,441 | $250,001 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| North Auburn | 13,833 | $72,125 | $503,400 | Compare |
| Livingston | 14,450 | $76,158 | $339,800 | Compare |
| Salida | 14,457 | $91,990 | $448,700 | Compare |
| Hawaiian Gardens | 13,816 | $76,025 | $509,600 | 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.
Compare McFarland With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about McFarland
What is the population of McFarland, CA?
The population of McFarland, CA is 14,138 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 McFarland?
The median household income in McFarland, CA is $51,801 per year, which is 31% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in McFarland?
The median home value in McFarland, CA is $245,500, which is 0% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in McFarland?
The median monthly rent in McFarland, CA is $1,067, which is 8% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in McFarland?
The unemployment rate in McFarland, CA is 9.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is McFarland, CA a good place to live?
McFarland offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 14,138 and a median age of 26.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is McFarland, CA?
4.1% of residents in McFarland 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 McFarland?
Key cost-of-living indicators for McFarland, CA: median home value is $245,500 (0% above national), median rent is $1,067/month, and median household income is $51,801. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in McFarland?
The poverty rate in McFarland, CA is 27.5%, 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 McFarland, CA?
McFarland's population is 85.8% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 3.5% Asian, and 0.6% two or more races. 27.6% of residents are foreign-born.