Oildale, CA
Population 34,971 · California
About Oildale, CA
Oildale is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 34,971 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,622 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.9 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 Oildale features a median home value of $225,000, which is 8% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Oildale in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,220, 5% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 13,882 total housing units, 40% are owner-occupied (5,200 units) and 60% are renter-occupied (7,654 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 Oildale shows an unemployment rate of 9.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 26.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Oildale have an average one-way commute time of 23.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.3% of Oildale 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 24.8% White, 4.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 5.5% Asian residents, with 6.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Oildale, CA
Compared to national averages, Oildale has a median household income of $49,622 (34% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $225,000, which is 8% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,220 is 5% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Oildale's income is 49% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 66% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Oildale, CA?
Oildale offers affordable housing with a median home value of $225,000, below the US average of $244,900, and short commute times averaging just 23.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,622) that falls below the national average. However, Oildale’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Oildale has a population of 34,971 with a median age of 34.9 years. Compare Oildale with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Oildale
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Juan Capistrano | 34,998 | $127,893 | $929,700 | Compare |
| West Hollywood | 35,090 | $94,844 | $969,900 | Compare |
| Orangevale | 35,219 | $98,158 | $508,600 | Compare |
| Manhattan Beach | 34,584 | $193,904 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Pleasant Hill | 34,335 | $144,513 | $1,040,600 | Compare |
| Westmont | 34,291 | $47,899 | $617,300 | Compare |
| Temple City | 35,749 | $102,449 | $930,200 | Compare |
| San Dimas | 34,099 | $105,833 | $756,200 | 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 Oildale With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Oildale
What is the population of Oildale, CA?
The population of Oildale, CA is 34,971 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 Oildale?
The median household income in Oildale, CA is $49,622 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Oildale?
The median home value in Oildale, CA is $225,000, which is 8% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Oildale?
The median monthly rent in Oildale, CA is $1,220, which is 5% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Oildale?
The unemployment rate in Oildale, CA is 9.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Oildale, CA a good place to live?
Oildale offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 34,971 and a median age of 34.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Oildale, CA?
12.3% of residents in Oildale 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 Oildale?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Oildale, CA: median home value is $225,000 (8% below national), median rent is $1,220/month, and median household income is $49,622. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.5x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Oildale?
The poverty rate in Oildale, CA is 26.9%, 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 Oildale, CA?
Oildale's population is 24.8% White, 4.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 5.5% Asian, and 1.9% two or more races. 6.3% of residents are foreign-born.