Salinas, CA
Population 161,993 · California
About Salinas, CA
Salinas is a major city in California with a population of 161,993 residents. The median household income is $89,150 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Salinas is 32.1 years.
Housing in Salinas has a median home value of $610,900 and median monthly rent of $1,923. Of the 45,206 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 20,518 owner-occupied and 23,106 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Salinas is 4.7% and the poverty rate is 14.2%. 15.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 26.6 minutes.
How Salinas Ranks in California
Cost of Living in Salinas, CA
Compared to national averages, Salinas has a median household income of $89,150 (19% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $610,900, which is 149% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,923 is 65% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Salinas's income is 9% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 7% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Salinas, CA?
Salinas offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $89,150, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $610,900. However, as a major city, Salinas provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Salinas has a population of 161,993 with a median age of 32.1 years. Compare Salinas with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Salinas
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hayward | 159,201 | $113,775 | $820,700 | Compare |
| Corona | 158,839 | $106,438 | $656,500 | Compare |
| Palmdale | 165,487 | $81,151 | $435,300 | Compare |
| Lancaster | 170,013 | $76,083 | $409,100 | Compare |
| Sunnyvale | 153,455 | $181,862 | $1,816,600 | Compare |
| Garden Grove | 170,603 | $90,166 | $765,500 | Compare |
| Roseville | 152,438 | $117,354 | $630,600 | Compare |
| Oceanside | 172,542 | $93,724 | $702,000 | 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 Salinas
What is the population of Salinas, CA?
The population of Salinas, CA is 161,993 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Salinas?
The median household income in Salinas, CA is $89,150 per year.
What is the median home value in Salinas?
The median home value in Salinas, CA is $610,900.
What is the average rent in Salinas?
The median monthly rent in Salinas, CA is $1,923.
What is the unemployment rate in Salinas?
The unemployment rate in Salinas, CA is 4.7%.