Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Population 47,257 · California
About Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Rancho Santa Margarita is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 47,257 residents. The median household income is $146,827 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Rancho Santa Margarita is 40.3 years.
Housing in Rancho Santa Margarita has a median home value of $907,900 and median monthly rent of $2,481. Of the 17,424 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 12,512 owner-occupied and 4,530 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Rancho Santa Margarita is 4.0% and the poverty rate is 5.1%. 48.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 27.4 minutes.
Cost of Living in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Compared to national averages, Rancho Santa Margarita has a median household income of $146,827 (95% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $907,900, which is 271% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,481 is 113% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Rancho Santa Margarita's income is 50% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 39% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA?
Rancho Santa Margarita offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $146,827, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 48.8% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 5.1%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $907,900. However, Rancho Santa Margarita’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Rancho Santa Margarita has a population of 47,257 with a median age of 40.3 years. Compare Rancho Santa Margarita with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Rancho Santa Margarita
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brea | 47,337 | $124,837 | $874,300 | Compare |
| Newark | 47,145 | $164,909 | $1,094,200 | Compare |
| La Mirada | 46,945 | $110,177 | $763,200 | Compare |
| Rowland Heights | 46,787 | $85,202 | $812,900 | Compare |
| Los Banos | 46,776 | $70,893 | $419,600 | Compare |
| North Highlands | 47,900 | $65,090 | $344,900 | Compare |
| San Luis Obispo | 48,039 | $66,711 | $896,500 | Compare |
| Cerritos | 48,340 | $133,953 | $908,600 | 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 Rancho Santa Margarita
What is the population of Rancho Santa Margarita, CA?
The population of Rancho Santa Margarita, CA is 47,257 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Rancho Santa Margarita?
The median household income in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA is $146,827 per year.
What is the median home value in Rancho Santa Margarita?
The median home value in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA is $907,900.
What is the average rent in Rancho Santa Margarita?
The median monthly rent in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA is $2,481.
What is the unemployment rate in Rancho Santa Margarita?
The unemployment rate in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA is 4.0%.