Merced, CA
Population 89,766 · California
About Merced, CA
Merced is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 89,766 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $59,938 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 29.8 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 Merced features a median home value of $347,700, which is 42% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Merced in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,293, 11% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 29,208 total housing units, 44% are owner-occupied (12,209 units) and 56% are renter-occupied (15,273 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Merced shows an unemployment rate of 12.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 23.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Merced have an average one-way commute time of 26.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.0% of Merced 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 55.1% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 3.1% Asian residents, with 22.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Merced, CA
Compared to national averages, Merced has a median household income of $59,938 (20% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $347,700, which is 42% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,293 is 11% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Merced's income is 39% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 47% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Merced, CA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,938) that falls below the national average. However, as a mid-sized city, Merced provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Merced has a population of 89,766 with a median age of 29.8 years. Compare Merced with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Merced
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westminster | 90,147 | $82,686 | $820,000 | Compare |
| Hemet | 90,646 | $53,623 | $314,200 | Compare |
| Indio | 90,669 | $78,709 | $424,700 | Compare |
| San Leandro | 88,531 | $98,063 | $813,600 | Compare |
| Santa Barbara | 88,024 | $101,672 | $1,466,400 | Compare |
| Santa Monica | 91,535 | $109,739 | $1,810,200 | Compare |
| Chino | 91,775 | $103,845 | $641,500 | Compare |
| South Gate | 91,836 | $71,315 | $608,500 | 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 Merced With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Merced
What is the population of Merced, CA?
The population of Merced, CA is 89,766 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 Merced?
The median household income in Merced, CA is $59,938 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Merced?
The median home value in Merced, CA is $347,700, which is 42% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Merced?
The median monthly rent in Merced, CA is $1,293, which is 11% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Merced?
The unemployment rate in Merced, CA is 12.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Merced, CA a good place to live?
Merced offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 89,766 and a median age of 29.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Merced, CA?
18.0% of residents in Merced 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 Merced?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Merced, CA: median home value is $347,700 (42% above national), median rent is $1,293/month, and median household income is $59,938. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Merced?
The poverty rate in Merced, CA is 23.0%, 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 Merced, CA?
Merced's population is 55.1% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 3.1% Asian, and 4.6% two or more races. 22.1% of residents are foreign-born.