Palmdale, CA
Population 165,487 · California
About Palmdale, CA
Palmdale is a major city in California with a population of 165,487 residents. The median household income is $81,151 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Palmdale is 33.2 years.
Housing in Palmdale has a median home value of $435,300 and median monthly rent of $1,736. Of the 48,505 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 30,782 owner-occupied and 15,720 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Palmdale is 7.4% and the poverty rate is 14.6%. 16.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 41.6 minutes.
How Palmdale Ranks in California
Cost of Living in Palmdale, CA
Compared to national averages, Palmdale has a median household income of $81,151 (8% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $435,300, which is 78% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,736 is 49% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Palmdale's income is 17% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 33% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Palmdale, CA?
Palmdale offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $81,151, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $435,300. However, as a major city, Palmdale provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Palmdale has a population of 165,487 with a median age of 33.2 years. Compare Palmdale with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Palmdale
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salinas | 161,993 | $89,150 | $610,900 | Compare |
| Lancaster | 170,013 | $76,083 | $409,100 | Compare |
| Garden Grove | 170,603 | $90,166 | $765,500 | Compare |
| Hayward | 159,201 | $113,775 | $820,700 | Compare |
| Corona | 158,839 | $106,438 | $656,500 | Compare |
| Oceanside | 172,542 | $93,724 | $702,000 | Compare |
| Rancho Cucamonga | 174,693 | $109,511 | $694,400 | Compare |
| Santa Rosa | 177,216 | $97,410 | $685,000 | 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 Palmdale
What is the population of Palmdale, CA?
The population of Palmdale, CA is 165,487 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Palmdale?
The median household income in Palmdale, CA is $81,151 per year.
What is the median home value in Palmdale?
The median home value in Palmdale, CA is $435,300.
What is the average rent in Palmdale?
The median monthly rent in Palmdale, CA is $1,736.
What is the unemployment rate in Palmdale?
The unemployment rate in Palmdale, CA is 7.4%.