North Highlands, CA
Population 47,900 · California
About North Highlands, CA
North Highlands is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 47,900 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,090 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.5 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 North Highlands features a median home value of $344,900, which is 41% above the national median of $244,900. This positions North Highlands in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,585, 36% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 16,819 total housing units, 51% are owner-occupied (8,115 units) and 49% are renter-occupied (7,823 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in North Highlands shows an unemployment rate of 6.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 19.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in North Highlands have an average one-way commute time of 30.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.9% of North Highlands 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 25.6% White, 3.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, and 6.5% Asian residents, with 27.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in North Highlands, CA
Compared to national averages, North Highlands has a median household income of $65,090 (13% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $344,900, which is 41% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,585 is 36% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, North Highlands's income is 33% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 47% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in North Highlands, CA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,090) that falls below the national average. However, North Highlands’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
North Highlands has a population of 47,900 with a median age of 34.5 years. Compare North Highlands with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near North Highlands
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Luis Obispo | 48,039 | $66,711 | $896,500 | Compare |
| Cerritos | 48,340 | $133,953 | $908,600 | Compare |
| Brea | 47,337 | $124,837 | $874,300 | Compare |
| Poway | 48,515 | $143,825 | $971,500 | Compare |
| Rancho Santa Margarita | 47,257 | $146,827 | $907,900 | Compare |
| Newark | 47,145 | $164,909 | $1,094,200 | Compare |
| La Mirada | 46,945 | $110,177 | $763,200 | Compare |
| Ceres | 48,918 | $76,862 | $397,200 | 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 North Highlands With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about North Highlands
What is the population of North Highlands, CA?
The population of North Highlands, CA is 47,900 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 North Highlands?
The median household income in North Highlands, CA is $65,090 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in North Highlands?
The median home value in North Highlands, CA is $344,900, which is 41% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in North Highlands?
The median monthly rent in North Highlands, CA is $1,585, which is 36% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in North Highlands?
The unemployment rate in North Highlands, CA is 6.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is North Highlands, CA a good place to live?
North Highlands offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 47,900 and a median age of 34.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is North Highlands, CA?
14.9% of residents in North Highlands 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 North Highlands?
Key cost-of-living indicators for North Highlands, CA: median home value is $344,900 (41% above national), median rent is $1,585/month, and median household income is $65,090. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in North Highlands?
The poverty rate in North Highlands, CA is 19.6%, 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 North Highlands, CA?
North Highlands's population is 25.6% White, 3.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, 6.5% Asian, and 8.4% two or more races. 27.7% of residents are foreign-born.