Smith River, CA
Population 1,270 · California
About Smith River, CA
Smith River is a small town located in California with a population of 1,270 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $100,461 per year, which is 34% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 29.4 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 Smith River features a median home value of $345,800, which is 41% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Smith River in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 425 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (326 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (99 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Smith River shows an unemployment rate of 4.2%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 7.7%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Smith River have an average one-way commute time of 12.7 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
5.5% of Smith River 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 22.4% White, 20.6% Hispanic or Latino, 1.9% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 8.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Smith River, CA
Compared to national averages, Smith River has a median household income of $100,461 (34% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $345,800, which is 41% above the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within California, Smith River's income is 3% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 47% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Smith River, CA?
Smith River offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $100,461, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a low poverty rate of 7.7%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 12.7 minutes.
Smith River has a population of 1,270 with a median age of 29.4 years. Compare Smith River with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Smith River
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redway | 1,276 | $0 | $363,700 | Compare |
| Littlerock | 1,277 | $0 | $345,700 | Compare |
| Red Corral | 1,263 | $83,929 | $397,600 | Compare |
| Somis | 1,260 | $144,018 | $1,158,700 | Compare |
| Airport | 1,258 | $42,000 | $333,300 | Compare |
| Hasley Canyon | 1,254 | $120,714 | $1,134,900 | Compare |
| Whitewater | 1,254 | $76,974 | $273,600 | Compare |
| Buttonwillow | 1,251 | $35,417 | $215,200 | 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 Smith River With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Smith River
What is the population of Smith River, CA?
The population of Smith River, CA is 1,270 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 Smith River?
The median household income in Smith River, CA is $100,461 per year, which is 34% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Smith River?
The median home value in Smith River, CA is $345,800, which is 41% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Smith River?
The median monthly rent in Smith River, CA is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Smith River?
The unemployment rate in Smith River, CA is 4.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Smith River, CA a good place to live?
Smith River offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,270 and a median age of 29.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Smith River, CA?
5.5% of residents in Smith River 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 Smith River?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Smith River, CA: median home value is $345,800 (41% above national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $100,461. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Smith River?
The poverty rate in Smith River, CA is 7.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Smith River, CA?
Smith River's population is 22.4% White, 20.6% Hispanic or Latino, 1.9% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 8.1% of residents are foreign-born.