Thornton, CA
Population 815 · California
About Thornton, CA
Thornton is a small community located in California with a population of 815 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $47,917 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.2 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 Thornton features a median home value of $455,300, which is 86% above the national median of $244,900. This places Thornton in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $898, 23% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 285 total housing units, 50% are owner-occupied (132 units) and 50% are renter-occupied (133 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 Thornton shows an unemployment rate of 11.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 29.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Thornton have an average one-way commute time of 30.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.0% of Thornton 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 57.5% White, 16.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.7% Asian residents, with 23.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Thornton, CA
Compared to national averages, Thornton has a median household income of $47,917 (36% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $455,300, which is 86% above the national median. Monthly rent at $898 is 23% below the US average of $1,163. Within California, Thornton's income is 51% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 30% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Thornton, CA?
Thornton offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $898/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,917) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $455,300. However, Thornton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Thornton has a population of 815 with a median age of 32.2 years. Compare Thornton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Thornton
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petaluma Center | 815 | $74,250 | $0 | Compare |
| Klamath | 816 | $48,250 | $244,500 | Compare |
| Dorris | 810 | $33,879 | $120,100 | Compare |
| Tahoe Vista | 821 | $98,264 | $817,100 | Compare |
| Green Valley CDP (Los Angeles County), California | 808 | $85,208 | $369,600 | Compare |
| Manila | 826 | $58,950 | $404,000 | Compare |
| Geyserville | 830 | $107,500 | $710,100 | Compare |
| Loyalton | 830 | $65,694 | $190,700 | 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 Thornton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Thornton
What is the population of Thornton, CA?
The population of Thornton, CA is 815 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in California.
What is the median household income in Thornton?
The median household income in Thornton, CA is $47,917 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Thornton?
The median home value in Thornton, CA is $455,300, which is 86% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Thornton?
The median monthly rent in Thornton, CA is $898, which is 23% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Thornton?
The unemployment rate in Thornton, CA is 11.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Thornton, CA a good place to live?
Thornton offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 815 and a median age of 32.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Thornton, CA?
11.0% of residents in Thornton 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 Thornton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Thornton, CA: median home value is $455,300 (86% above national), median rent is $898/month, and median household income is $47,917. The home-value-to-income ratio is 9.5x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Thornton?
The poverty rate in Thornton, CA is 29.5%, 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 Thornton, CA?
Thornton's population is 57.5% White, 16.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.7% Asian, and 3.2% two or more races. 23.4% of residents are foreign-born.