San Mateo, CA
Population 103,555 · California
About San Mateo, CA
San Mateo is a major city in California with a population of 103,555 residents. The median household income is $152,669 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in San Mateo is 38 years.
Housing in San Mateo has a median home value of $1,563,200 and median monthly rent of $3,079. Of the 42,431 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 20,211 owner-occupied and 19,549 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in San Mateo is 4.3% and the poverty rate is 7.9%. 57.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 27.1 minutes.
Cost of Living in San Mateo, CA
Compared to national averages, San Mateo has a median household income of $152,669 (103% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,563,200, which is 538% above the national median. Monthly rent at $3,079 is 165% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, San Mateo's income is 56% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 139% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in San Mateo, CA?
San Mateo offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $152,669, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 57.6% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 7.9%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,563,200. However, as a major city, San Mateo provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
San Mateo has a population of 103,555 with a median age of 38 years. Compare San Mateo with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near San Mateo
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rialto | 103,866 | $85,521 | $454,400 | Compare |
| Daly City | 102,560 | $119,570 | $1,092,700 | Compare |
| El Cajon | 104,909 | $66,478 | $632,800 | Compare |
| Vacaville | 102,085 | $108,580 | $596,700 | Compare |
| Chico | 102,032 | $67,929 | $455,300 | Compare |
| Inglewood | 105,575 | $71,029 | $744,300 | Compare |
| Jurupa Valley | 106,244 | $96,190 | $538,700 | Compare |
| Norwalk | 100,713 | $98,709 | $616,600 | 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 San Mateo
What is the population of San Mateo, CA?
The population of San Mateo, CA is 103,555 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in San Mateo?
The median household income in San Mateo, CA is $152,669 per year.
What is the median home value in San Mateo?
The median home value in San Mateo, CA is $1,563,200.
What is the average rent in San Mateo?
The median monthly rent in San Mateo, CA is $3,079.
What is the unemployment rate in San Mateo?
The unemployment rate in San Mateo, CA is 4.3%.