Palmdale, CA
Population 165,487 · California
About Palmdale, CA
Palmdale is a major city located in California with a population of 165,487 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $81,151 per year, which is 8% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.2 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 Palmdale features a median home value of $435,300, which is 78% above the national median of $244,900. This places Palmdale in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,736, 49% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 48,505 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (30,782 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (15,720 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Palmdale shows an unemployment rate of 7.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Palmdale have an average one-way commute time of 41.6 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
16.6% of Palmdale 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 46.5% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 15.6% Asian residents, with 24.9% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Palmdale With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Palmdale
What is the population of Palmdale, CA?
The population of Palmdale, CA is 165,487 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in California.
What is the median household income in Palmdale?
The median household income in Palmdale, CA is $81,151 per year, which is 8% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Palmdale?
The median home value in Palmdale, CA is $435,300, which is 78% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Palmdale?
The median monthly rent in Palmdale, CA is $1,736, which is 49% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Palmdale?
The unemployment rate in Palmdale, CA is 7.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Palmdale, CA a good place to live?
Palmdale offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 165,487 and a median age of 33.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Palmdale, CA?
16.6% of residents in Palmdale 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 Palmdale?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Palmdale, CA: median home value is $435,300 (78% above national), median rent is $1,736/month, and median household income is $81,151. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.4x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Palmdale?
The poverty rate in Palmdale, CA is 14.6%, 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 Palmdale, CA?
Palmdale's population is 46.5% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 15.6% Asian, and 13.0% two or more races. 24.9% of residents are foreign-born.