Pajaro, CA
Population 2,480 · California
About Pajaro, CA
Pajaro is a small town located in California with a population of 2,480 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $82,083 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 30.5 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 Pajaro features a median home value of $638,400, which is 161% above the national median of $244,900. This places Pajaro in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,882, 62% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 538 total housing units, 38% are owner-occupied (205 units) and 62% are renter-occupied (333 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 Pajaro shows an unemployment rate of 15.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Pajaro have an average one-way commute time of 31.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.0% of Pajaro 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 92.4% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.8% Asian residents, with 42.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Pajaro, CA
Compared to national averages, Pajaro has a median household income of $82,083 (9% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $638,400, which is 161% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,882 is 62% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Pajaro's income is 16% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 2% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Pajaro, CA?
Pajaro offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $82,083, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $638,400. However, Pajaro’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Pajaro has a population of 2,480 with a median age of 30.5 years. Compare Pajaro with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Pajaro
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rose Hills | 2,485 | $123,220 | $883,500 | Compare |
| Kings Beach | 2,493 | $53,964 | $680,200 | Compare |
| Portola | 2,462 | $42,385 | $232,100 | Compare |
| Janesville | 2,447 | $70,938 | $289,400 | Compare |
| Cayucos | 2,517 | $82,778 | $947,000 | Compare |
| Nice | 2,517 | $70,274 | $173,100 | Compare |
| La Selva Beach | 2,519 | $159,094 | $1,195,100 | Compare |
| China Lake Acres | 2,523 | $67,438 | $168,100 | 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 Pajaro With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Pajaro
What is the population of Pajaro, CA?
The population of Pajaro, CA is 2,480 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in California.
What is the median household income in Pajaro?
The median household income in Pajaro, CA is $82,083 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Pajaro?
The median home value in Pajaro, CA is $638,400, which is 161% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Pajaro?
The median monthly rent in Pajaro, CA is $1,882, which is 62% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Pajaro?
The unemployment rate in Pajaro, CA is 15.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Pajaro, CA a good place to live?
Pajaro offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,480 and a median age of 30.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Pajaro, CA?
8.0% of residents in Pajaro 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 Pajaro?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Pajaro, CA: median home value is $638,400 (161% above national), median rent is $1,882/month, and median household income is $82,083. The home-value-to-income ratio is 7.8x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Pajaro?
The poverty rate in Pajaro, CA is 14.7%, 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 Pajaro, CA?
Pajaro's population is 92.4% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.8% Asian, and 2.5% two or more races. 42.5% of residents are foreign-born.