Scotts Valley, CA
Population 12,138 · California
About Scotts Valley, CA
Scotts Valley is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 12,138 residents. The median household income is $140,887 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Scotts Valley is 47.8 years.
Housing in Scotts Valley has a median home value of $1,092,000 and median monthly rent of $2,362. Of the 5,440 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 3,631 owner-occupied and 1,377 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Scotts Valley is 2.3% and the poverty rate is 4.8%. 54.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 24.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Scotts Valley, CA
Compared to national averages, Scotts Valley has a median household income of $140,887 (87% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,092,000, which is 346% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,362 is 103% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Scotts Valley's income is 44% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 67% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Scotts Valley, CA?
Scotts Valley offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $140,887, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.3%, and a well-educated community where 54.4% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 4.8%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,092,000. However, Scotts Valley’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Scotts Valley has a population of 12,138 with a median age of 47.8 years. Compare Scotts Valley with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Scotts Valley
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tamalpais-Homestead Valley | 12,153 | $238,158 | $1,811,100 | Compare |
| Commerce | 12,072 | $71,768 | $583,200 | Compare |
| San Marino | 12,279 | $187,633 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Newman | 12,299 | $75,344 | $381,900 | Compare |
| Tehachapi | 12,366 | $67,785 | $344,700 | Compare |
| Rossmoor | 11,895 | $200,833 | $1,234,700 | Compare |
| Fortuna | 12,413 | $61,603 | $353,200 | Compare |
| Los Alamitos | 11,784 | $98,539 | $1,003,900 | 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 Scotts Valley
What is the population of Scotts Valley, CA?
The population of Scotts Valley, CA is 12,138 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Scotts Valley?
The median household income in Scotts Valley, CA is $140,887 per year.
What is the median home value in Scotts Valley?
The median home value in Scotts Valley, CA is $1,092,000.
What is the average rent in Scotts Valley?
The median monthly rent in Scotts Valley, CA is $2,362.
What is the unemployment rate in Scotts Valley?
The unemployment rate in Scotts Valley, CA is 2.3%.