Phelan, CA
Population 18,059 · California
About Phelan, CA
Phelan is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 18,059 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $83,759 per year, which is 11% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.9 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 Phelan features a median home value of $357,200, which is 46% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Phelan in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,623, 40% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,510 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (4,187 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (1,007 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Phelan shows an unemployment rate of 12.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Phelan have an average one-way commute time of 48.1 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
13.9% of Phelan 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 37.2% White, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, and 6.4% Asian residents, with 11.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Phelan, CA
Compared to national averages, Phelan has a median household income of $83,759 (11% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $357,200, which is 46% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,623 is 40% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Phelan's income is 14% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 45% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Phelan, CA?
Phelan offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $83,759, well above the national average.
Phelan has a population of 18,059 with a median age of 33.9 years. Compare Phelan with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Phelan
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stanford | 17,958 | $70,651 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Blythe | 17,824 | $51,984 | $203,800 | Compare |
| Arroyo Grande | 18,412 | $103,258 | $758,100 | Compare |
| Castaic | 18,479 | $132,153 | $710,400 | Compare |
| Coronado | 18,558 | $135,056 | $1,998,900 | Compare |
| Arcata | 18,578 | $48,731 | $466,600 | Compare |
| South San Jose Hills | 17,451 | $94,740 | $540,400 | Compare |
| Rancho Mirage | 17,375 | $109,943 | $747,800 | 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 Phelan With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Phelan
What is the population of Phelan, CA?
The population of Phelan, CA is 18,059 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 Phelan?
The median household income in Phelan, CA is $83,759 per year, which is 11% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Phelan?
The median home value in Phelan, CA is $357,200, which is 46% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Phelan?
The median monthly rent in Phelan, CA is $1,623, which is 40% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Phelan?
The unemployment rate in Phelan, CA is 12.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Phelan, CA a good place to live?
Phelan offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 18,059 and a median age of 33.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Phelan, CA?
13.9% of residents in Phelan 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 Phelan?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Phelan, CA: median home value is $357,200 (46% above national), median rent is $1,623/month, and median household income is $83,759. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Phelan?
The poverty rate in Phelan, CA is 14.5%, 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 Phelan, CA?
Phelan's population is 37.2% White, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, 6.4% Asian, and 0.6% two or more races. 11.6% of residents are foreign-born.