Stanford, CA
Population 17,958 · California
About Stanford, CA
Stanford is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 17,958 residents. The median household income is $70,651 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Stanford is 22.7 years.
Housing in Stanford has a median home value of $2,000,001 and median monthly rent of $1,925. Of the 4,325 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 966 owner-occupied and 2,825 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Stanford is 7.6% and the poverty rate is 18.2%. 91.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 15.5 minutes.
How Stanford Ranks in California
Cost of Living in Stanford, CA
Compared to national averages, Stanford has a median household income of $70,651 (6% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $2,000,001, which is 717% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,925 is 66% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Stanford's income is 28% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 206% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Stanford, CA?
Stanford offers a well-educated community where 91.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 15.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,651) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $2,000,001. However, Stanford’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Stanford has a population of 17,958 with a median age of 22.7 years. Compare Stanford with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Stanford
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phelan | 18,059 | $83,759 | $357,200 | Compare |
| Blythe | 17,824 | $51,984 | $203,800 | Compare |
| Arroyo Grande | 18,412 | $103,258 | $758,100 | Compare |
| South San Jose Hills | 17,451 | $94,740 | $540,400 | Compare |
| Castaic | 18,479 | $132,153 | $710,400 | Compare |
| Rancho Mirage | 17,375 | $109,943 | $747,800 | Compare |
| Coronado | 18,558 | $135,056 | $1,998,900 | Compare |
| Coalinga | 17,352 | $78,014 | $254,600 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Stanford
What is the population of Stanford, CA?
The population of Stanford, CA is 17,958 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Stanford?
The median household income in Stanford, CA is $70,651 per year.
What is the median home value in Stanford?
The median home value in Stanford, CA is $2,000,001.
What is the average rent in Stanford?
The median monthly rent in Stanford, CA is $1,925.
What is the unemployment rate in Stanford?
The unemployment rate in Stanford, CA is 7.6%.