South Whittier, CA
Population 55,201 · California
About South Whittier, CA
South Whittier is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 55,201 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $98,974 per year, which is 32% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.1 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 Whittier features a median home value of $641,700, which is 162% above the national median of $244,900. This places South Whittier in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,823, 57% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 15,685 total housing units, 64% are owner-occupied (9,733 units) and 36% are renter-occupied (5,367 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Whittier shows an unemployment rate of 4.9%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 8.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in South Whittier have an average one-way commute time of 32.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.7% of South Whittier 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 68.4% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, and 9.2% Asian residents, with 24.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in South Whittier, CA
Compared to national averages, South Whittier has a median household income of $98,974 (32% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $641,700, which is 162% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,823 is 57% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, South Whittier's income is 1% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 2% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in South Whittier, CA?
South Whittier offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $98,974, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 8.4%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $641,700. However, as a mid-sized city, South Whittier provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
South Whittier has a population of 55,201 with a median age of 35.1 years. Compare South Whittier with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near South Whittier
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hacienda Heights | 54,956 | $106,620 | $778,700 | Compare |
| Arcadia | 55,550 | $116,142 | $1,336,500 | Compare |
| Beaumont | 54,817 | $105,164 | $464,000 | Compare |
| San Jacinto | 54,756 | $78,281 | $391,600 | Compare |
| West Sacramento | 54,496 | $90,791 | $497,100 | Compare |
| National City | 55,960 | $64,248 | $580,900 | Compare |
| Yucaipa | 54,348 | $92,401 | $466,000 | Compare |
| Fountain Valley | 56,358 | $111,797 | $1,018,600 | 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 Whittier With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South Whittier
What is the population of South Whittier, CA?
The population of South Whittier, CA is 55,201 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 Whittier?
The median household income in South Whittier, CA is $98,974 per year, which is 32% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Whittier?
The median home value in South Whittier, CA is $641,700, which is 162% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South Whittier?
The median monthly rent in South Whittier, CA is $1,823, which is 57% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Whittier?
The unemployment rate in South Whittier, CA is 4.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South Whittier, CA a good place to live?
South Whittier offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 55,201 and a median age of 35.1, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is South Whittier, CA?
17.7% of residents in South Whittier 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 Whittier?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Whittier, CA: median home value is $641,700 (162% above national), median rent is $1,823/month, and median household income is $98,974. The home-value-to-income ratio is 6.5x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in South Whittier?
The poverty rate in South Whittier, CA is 8.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is South Whittier, CA?
South Whittier's population is 68.4% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, 9.2% Asian, and 0.9% two or more races. 24.1% of residents are foreign-born.