Stockton, CA
Population 320,470 · California
About Stockton, CA
Stockton is a major city located in California with a population of 320,470 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,851 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.7 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 Stockton features a median home value of $412,900, which is 69% above the national median of $244,900. This places Stockton in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,495, 29% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 104,955 total housing units, 53% are owner-occupied (52,316 units) and 47% are renter-occupied (45,979 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Stockton shows an unemployment rate of 8.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Stockton have an average one-way commute time of 32.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.1% of Stockton 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 40.6% White, 6.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 3.9% Asian residents, with 25.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Stockton Ranks in California
Cost of Living in Stockton, CA
Compared to national averages, Stockton has a median household income of $76,851 (2% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $412,900, which is 69% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,495 is 29% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Stockton's income is 21% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 37% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Stockton, CA?
Stockton offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,851, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $412,900. However, as a major city, Stockton provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Stockton has a population of 320,470 with a median age of 33.7 years. Compare Stockton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Stockton
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riverside | 316,241 | $88,575 | $542,100 | Compare |
| Santa Ana | 311,639 | $88,354 | $657,800 | Compare |
| Irvine | 308,160 | $129,647 | $1,115,400 | Compare |
| Anaheim | 344,553 | $90,583 | $771,700 | Compare |
| Chula Vista | 275,030 | $105,173 | $697,400 | Compare |
| Bakersfield | 408,366 | $77,397 | $347,300 | Compare |
| Santa Clarita | 229,021 | $119,926 | $721,000 | Compare |
| Fremont | 228,518 | $176,350 | $1,289,400 | 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 Stockton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Stockton
What is the population of Stockton, CA?
The population of Stockton, CA is 320,470 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in California.
What is the median household income in Stockton?
The median household income in Stockton, CA is $76,851 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Stockton?
The median home value in Stockton, CA is $412,900, which is 69% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Stockton?
The median monthly rent in Stockton, CA is $1,495, which is 29% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Stockton?
The unemployment rate in Stockton, CA is 8.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Stockton, CA a good place to live?
Stockton offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 320,470 and a median age of 33.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Stockton, CA?
19.1% of residents in Stockton 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 Stockton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Stockton, CA: median home value is $412,900 (69% above national), median rent is $1,495/month, and median household income is $76,851. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.4x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Stockton?
The poverty rate in Stockton, CA is 15.4%, 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 Stockton, CA?
Stockton's population is 40.6% White, 6.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 3.9% Asian, and 11.0% two or more races. 25.9% of residents are foreign-born.