San Marcos, CA
Population 94,078 · California
About San Marcos, CA
San Marcos is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 94,078 residents. The median household income is $105,286 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in San Marcos is 36.8 years.
Housing in San Marcos has a median home value of $792,400 and median monthly rent of $2,191. Of the 32,255 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 19,469 owner-occupied and 11,411 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in San Marcos is 4.5% and the poverty rate is 10.2%. 42.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 27.1 minutes.
Cost of Living in San Marcos, CA
Compared to national averages, San Marcos has a median household income of $105,286 (40% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $792,400, which is 224% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,191 is 88% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, San Marcos's income is 8% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 21% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in San Marcos, CA?
San Marcos offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $105,286, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 42.7% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 10.2%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $792,400. However, as a mid-sized city, San Marcos provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
San Marcos has a population of 94,078 with a median age of 36.8 years. Compare San Marcos with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near San Marcos
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compton | 93,525 | $74,270 | $546,700 | Compare |
| Carson | 93,523 | $107,391 | $645,600 | Compare |
| Redding | 93,268 | $69,443 | $363,800 | Compare |
| Tracy | 95,358 | $118,253 | $653,900 | Compare |
| Mission Viejo | 92,415 | $136,071 | $946,300 | Compare |
| Arden-Arcade | 96,319 | $71,767 | $504,400 | Compare |
| South Gate | 91,836 | $71,315 | $608,500 | Compare |
| Chino | 91,775 | $103,845 | $641,500 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about San Marcos
What is the population of San Marcos, CA?
The population of San Marcos, CA is 94,078 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in San Marcos?
The median household income in San Marcos, CA is $105,286 per year.
What is the median home value in San Marcos?
The median home value in San Marcos, CA is $792,400.
What is the average rent in San Marcos?
The median monthly rent in San Marcos, CA is $2,191.
What is the unemployment rate in San Marcos?
The unemployment rate in San Marcos, CA is 4.5%.