Santa Monica, CA
Population 91,535 · California
About Santa Monica, CA
Santa Monica is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 91,535 residents. The median household income is $109,739 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Santa Monica is 42.9 years.
Housing in Santa Monica has a median home value of $1,810,200 and median monthly rent of $2,338. Of the 52,381 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 13,361 owner-occupied and 33,096 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Santa Monica is 6.1% and the poverty rate is 11.6%. 68.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 25.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Santa Monica, CA
Compared to national averages, Santa Monica has a median household income of $109,739 (46% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,810,200, which is 639% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,338 is 101% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Santa Monica's income is 12% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 177% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Santa Monica, CA?
Santa Monica offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $109,739, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 68.9% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 11.6%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,810,200. However, as a mid-sized city, Santa Monica provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Santa Monica has a population of 91,535 with a median age of 42.9 years. Compare Santa Monica with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Santa Monica
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chino | 91,775 | $103,845 | $641,500 | Compare |
| South Gate | 91,836 | $71,315 | $608,500 | Compare |
| Indio | 90,669 | $78,709 | $424,700 | Compare |
| Mission Viejo | 92,415 | $136,071 | $946,300 | Compare |
| Hemet | 90,646 | $53,623 | $314,200 | Compare |
| Westminster | 90,147 | $82,686 | $820,000 | Compare |
| Redding | 93,268 | $69,443 | $363,800 | Compare |
| Merced | 89,766 | $59,938 | $347,700 | 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 Santa Monica
What is the population of Santa Monica, CA?
The population of Santa Monica, CA is 91,535 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Santa Monica?
The median household income in Santa Monica, CA is $109,739 per year.
What is the median home value in Santa Monica?
The median home value in Santa Monica, CA is $1,810,200.
What is the average rent in Santa Monica?
The median monthly rent in Santa Monica, CA is $2,338.
What is the unemployment rate in Santa Monica?
The unemployment rate in Santa Monica, CA is 6.1%.