Riverside, CA
Population 316,241 · California
About Riverside, CA
Riverside is a major city located in California with a population of 316,241 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $88,575 per year, which is 18% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.1 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 Riverside features a median home value of $542,100, which is 121% above the national median of $244,900. This places Riverside in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,812, 56% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 97,105 total housing units, 56% are owner-occupied (51,977 units) and 44% are renter-occupied (40,391 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Riverside shows an unemployment rate of 6.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 12.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Riverside have an average one-way commute time of 31.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
25.7% of Riverside residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 46.5% White, 2.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 7.1% Asian residents, with 22.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How Riverside Ranks in California
Cost of Living in Riverside, CA
Compared to national averages, Riverside has a median household income of $88,575 (18% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $542,100, which is 121% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,812 is 56% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Riverside's income is 9% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 17% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Riverside, CA?
Riverside offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $88,575, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $542,100. However, as a major city, Riverside provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Riverside has a population of 316,241 with a median age of 33.1 years. Compare Riverside with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Riverside
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stockton | 320,470 | $76,851 | $412,900 | Compare |
| Santa Ana | 311,639 | $88,354 | $657,800 | Compare |
| Irvine | 308,160 | $129,647 | $1,115,400 | Compare |
| Anaheim | 344,553 | $90,583 | $771,700 | Compare |
| Chula Vista | 275,030 | $105,173 | $697,400 | Compare |
| Santa Clarita | 229,021 | $119,926 | $721,000 | Compare |
| Fremont | 228,518 | $176,350 | $1,289,400 | Compare |
| Bakersfield | 408,366 | $77,397 | $347,300 | 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 Riverside With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Riverside
What is the population of Riverside, CA?
The population of Riverside, CA is 316,241 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 Riverside?
The median household income in Riverside, CA is $88,575 per year, which is 18% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Riverside?
The median home value in Riverside, CA is $542,100, which is 121% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Riverside?
The median monthly rent in Riverside, CA is $1,812, which is 56% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Riverside?
The unemployment rate in Riverside, CA is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Riverside, CA a good place to live?
Riverside offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 316,241 and a median age of 33.1, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Riverside, CA?
25.7% of residents in Riverside 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 Riverside?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Riverside, CA: median home value is $542,100 (121% above national), median rent is $1,812/month, and median household income is $88,575. The home-value-to-income ratio is 6.1x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Riverside?
The poverty rate in Riverside, CA is 12.5%, 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 Riverside, CA?
Riverside's population is 46.5% White, 2.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 7.1% Asian, and 5.7% two or more races. 22.4% of residents are foreign-born.