Salton City, CA
Population 6,244 · California
About Salton City, CA
Salton City is a small town located in California with a population of 6,244 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $36,915 per year, which is 51% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35 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 Salton City features a median home value of $189,800, which is 22% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Salton City in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,295, 11% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,628 total housing units, 88% are owner-occupied (1,919 units) and 12% are renter-occupied (266 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Salton City shows an unemployment rate of 17.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Salton City have an average one-way commute time of 31.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
10.3% of Salton City 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 73.8% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 25.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Salton City, CA
Compared to national averages, Salton City has a median household income of $36,915 (51% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $189,800, which is 22% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,295 is 11% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Salton City's income is 62% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 71% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Salton City, CA?
Salton City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $189,800, below the US average of $244,900.
Potential considerations include median household income ($36,915) that falls below the national average. However, Salton City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Salton City has a population of 6,244 with a median age of 35 years. Compare Salton City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Salton City
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Willows | 6,239 | $78,179 | $286,200 | Compare |
| Wilton | 6,198 | $171,579 | $891,200 | Compare |
| Crescent City | 6,180 | $41,131 | $290,500 | Compare |
| Hilmar-Irwin | 6,317 | $76,492 | $420,600 | Compare |
| Lucas Valley-Marinwood | 6,331 | $200,938 | $1,360,000 | Compare |
| El Rio | 6,343 | $83,233 | $639,600 | Compare |
| Aptos | 6,124 | $135,349 | $1,098,200 | Compare |
| Gustine | 6,118 | $58,321 | $422,500 | 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 Salton City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Salton City
What is the population of Salton City, CA?
The population of Salton City, CA is 6,244 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in California.
What is the median household income in Salton City?
The median household income in Salton City, CA is $36,915 per year, which is 51% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Salton City?
The median home value in Salton City, CA is $189,800, which is 22% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Salton City?
The median monthly rent in Salton City, CA is $1,295, which is 11% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Salton City?
The unemployment rate in Salton City, CA is 17.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Salton City, CA a good place to live?
Salton City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 6,244 and a median age of 35, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Salton City, CA?
10.3% of residents in Salton City 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 Salton City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Salton City, CA: median home value is $189,800 (22% below national), median rent is $1,295/month, and median household income is $36,915. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.1x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Salton City?
The poverty rate in Salton City, CA is 14.3%, 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 Salton City, CA?
Salton City's population is 73.8% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 25.9% of residents are foreign-born.