South Lake Tahoe, CA
Population 21,319 · California
About South Lake Tahoe, CA
South Lake Tahoe is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 21,319 residents. The median household income is $73,940 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in South Lake Tahoe is 39.3 years.
Housing in South Lake Tahoe has a median home value of $630,200 and median monthly rent of $1,467. Of the 16,436 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 4,273 owner-occupied and 4,991 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in South Lake Tahoe is 5.0% and the poverty rate is 12.4%. 34.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 15.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in South Lake Tahoe, CA
Compared to national averages, South Lake Tahoe has a median household income of $73,940 (2% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $630,200, which is 157% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,467 is 26% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, South Lake Tahoe's income is 24% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 4% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in South Lake Tahoe, CA?
South Lake Tahoe offers a well-educated community where 34.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 15.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($73,940) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $630,200. However, South Lake Tahoe’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
South Lake Tahoe has a population of 21,319 with a median age of 39.3 years. Compare South Lake Tahoe with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near South Lake Tahoe
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stevenson Ranch | 21,317 | $146,404 | $1,033,300 | Compare |
| Granite Bay | 21,378 | $190,000 | $1,094,100 | Compare |
| Valinda | 21,626 | $99,979 | $613,200 | Compare |
| Willowbrook | 21,642 | $60,386 | $511,100 | Compare |
| Port Hueneme | 21,691 | $76,655 | $556,200 | Compare |
| Imperial | 20,943 | $83,214 | $344,700 | Compare |
| American Canyon | 21,698 | $123,935 | $660,100 | Compare |
| Yucca Valley | 21,744 | $55,302 | $321,300 | 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 South Lake Tahoe
What is the population of South Lake Tahoe, CA?
The population of South Lake Tahoe, CA is 21,319 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in South Lake Tahoe?
The median household income in South Lake Tahoe, CA is $73,940 per year.
What is the median home value in South Lake Tahoe?
The median home value in South Lake Tahoe, CA is $630,200.
What is the average rent in South Lake Tahoe?
The median monthly rent in South Lake Tahoe, CA is $1,467.
What is the unemployment rate in South Lake Tahoe?
The unemployment rate in South Lake Tahoe, CA is 5.0%.