Monterey, CA
Population 29,772 · California
About Monterey, CA
Monterey is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 29,772 residents. The median household income is $104,110 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Monterey is 37.1 years.
Housing in Monterey has a median home value of $1,003,300 and median monthly rent of $2,288. Of the 13,760 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 4,704 owner-occupied and 7,716 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Monterey is 5.5% and the poverty rate is 10.5%. 54.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 18.6 minutes.
Cost of Living in Monterey, CA
Compared to national averages, Monterey has a median household income of $104,110 (39% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,003,300, which is 310% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,288 is 97% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Monterey's income is 6% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 53% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Monterey, CA?
Monterey offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $104,110, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 54.4% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 10.5%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 18.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,003,300. However, Monterey’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Monterey has a population of 29,772 with a median age of 37.1 years. Compare Monterey with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Monterey
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Carlos | 29,797 | $233,333 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Atascadero | 29,735 | $88,830 | $673,400 | Compare |
| San Lorenzo | 29,453 | $110,495 | $833,800 | Compare |
| Eastern Goleta Valley | 29,411 | $136,839 | $1,192,000 | Compare |
| Saratoga | 30,335 | $241,348 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Suisun City | 29,205 | $97,083 | $551,000 | Compare |
| East Palo Alto | 29,143 | $104,832 | $1,124,000 | Compare |
| Burlingame | 30,526 | $168,832 | $2,000,001 | 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 Monterey
What is the population of Monterey, CA?
The population of Monterey, CA is 29,772 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Monterey?
The median household income in Monterey, CA is $104,110 per year.
What is the median home value in Monterey?
The median home value in Monterey, CA is $1,003,300.
What is the average rent in Monterey?
The median monthly rent in Monterey, CA is $2,288.
What is the unemployment rate in Monterey?
The unemployment rate in Monterey, CA is 5.5%.