National City, CA
Population 55,960 · California
About National City, CA
National City is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 55,960 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $64,248 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.6 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in National City features a median home value of $580,900, which is 137% above the national median of $244,900. This places National City in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,619, 39% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 18,783 total housing units, 34% are owner-occupied (6,063 units) and 66% are renter-occupied (11,643 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 National City shows an unemployment rate of 7.5%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in National City have an average one-way commute time of 26.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.9% of National City 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 62.1% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, and 2.5% Asian residents, with 36.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in National City, CA
Compared to national averages, National City has a median household income of $64,248 (15% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $580,900, which is 137% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,619 is 39% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, National City's income is 34% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 11% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in National City, CA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($64,248) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $580,900. However, as a mid-sized city, National City provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
National City has a population of 55,960 with a median age of 36.6 years. Compare National City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near National City
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fountain Valley | 56,358 | $111,797 | $1,018,600 | Compare |
| Arcadia | 55,550 | $116,142 | $1,336,500 | Compare |
| Highland | 56,690 | $77,979 | $455,200 | Compare |
| South Whittier | 55,201 | $98,974 | $641,700 | Compare |
| Hacienda Heights | 54,956 | $106,620 | $778,700 | Compare |
| Beaumont | 54,817 | $105,164 | $464,000 | Compare |
| San Jacinto | 54,756 | $78,281 | $391,600 | Compare |
| West Sacramento | 54,496 | $90,791 | $497,100 | 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 National City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about National City
What is the population of National City, CA?
The population of National City, CA is 55,960 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 National City?
The median household income in National City, CA is $64,248 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in National City?
The median home value in National City, CA is $580,900, which is 137% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in National City?
The median monthly rent in National City, CA is $1,619, which is 39% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in National City?
The unemployment rate in National City, CA is 7.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is National City, CA a good place to live?
National City offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 55,960 and a median age of 36.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is National City, CA?
16.9% of residents in National City 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 National City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for National City, CA: median home value is $580,900 (137% above national), median rent is $1,619/month, and median household income is $64,248. The home-value-to-income ratio is 9.0x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in National City?
The poverty rate in National City, CA is 14.0%, 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 National City, CA?
National City's population is 62.1% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, 2.5% Asian, and 4.3% two or more races. 36.9% of residents are foreign-born.