South Gate, CA
Population 91,836 · California
About South Gate, CA
South Gate is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 91,836 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $71,315 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.2 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 South Gate features a median home value of $608,500, which is 148% above the national median of $244,900. This places South Gate in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,471, 26% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 25,430 total housing units, 44% are owner-occupied (11,011 units) and 56% are renter-occupied (13,815 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Gate shows an unemployment rate of 6.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in South Gate have an average one-way commute time of 32.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.5% of South Gate 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 78.3% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 15.9% Asian residents, with 41.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in South Gate, CA
Compared to national averages, South Gate has a median household income of $71,315 (5% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $608,500, which is 148% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,471 is 26% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, South Gate's income is 27% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 7% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in South Gate, CA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($71,315) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $608,500. However, as a mid-sized city, South Gate provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
South Gate has a population of 91,836 with a median age of 35.2 years. Compare South Gate with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near South Gate
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chino | 91,775 | $103,845 | $641,500 | Compare |
| Santa Monica | 91,535 | $109,739 | $1,810,200 | Compare |
| Mission Viejo | 92,415 | $136,071 | $946,300 | Compare |
| Indio | 90,669 | $78,709 | $424,700 | Compare |
| Hemet | 90,646 | $53,623 | $314,200 | Compare |
| Redding | 93,268 | $69,443 | $363,800 | Compare |
| Carson | 93,523 | $107,391 | $645,600 | Compare |
| Compton | 93,525 | $74,270 | $546,700 | 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.
Compare South Gate With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South Gate
What is the population of South Gate, CA?
The population of South Gate, CA is 91,836 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in California.
What is the median household income in South Gate?
The median household income in South Gate, CA is $71,315 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Gate?
The median home value in South Gate, CA is $608,500, which is 148% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in South Gate?
The median monthly rent in South Gate, CA is $1,471, which is 26% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Gate?
The unemployment rate in South Gate, CA is 6.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South Gate, CA a good place to live?
South Gate offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 91,836 and a median age of 35.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is South Gate, CA?
11.5% of residents in South Gate 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 South Gate?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Gate, CA: median home value is $608,500 (148% above national), median rent is $1,471/month, and median household income is $71,315. The home-value-to-income ratio is 8.5x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in South Gate?
The poverty rate in South Gate, CA is 13.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is South Gate, CA?
South Gate's population is 78.3% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 15.9% Asian, and 0.9% two or more races. 41.8% of residents are foreign-born.