Valley Center, CA
Population 10,303 · California
About Valley Center, CA
Valley Center is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 10,303 residents. The median household income is $116,620 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Valley Center is 40.8 years.
Housing in Valley Center has a median home value of $809,300 and median monthly rent of $1,163. Of the 3,450 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 2,662 owner-occupied and 354 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Valley Center is 3.4% and the poverty rate is 12.4%. 35.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 36.5 minutes.
Cost of Living in Valley Center, CA
Compared to national averages, Valley Center has a median household income of $116,620 (55% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $809,300, which is 230% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,163 is 0% below the US average of $1,163. Within California, Valley Center's income is 19% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 24% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Valley Center, CA?
Valley Center offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $116,620, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.4%, and a well-educated community where 35.6% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $809,300. However, Valley Center’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Valley Center has a population of 10,303 with a median age of 40.8 years. Compare Valley Center with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Valley Center
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exeter | 10,280 | $71,198 | $273,500 | Compare |
| Shasta Lake | 10,334 | $61,319 | $273,000 | Compare |
| Farmersville | 10,336 | $57,832 | $237,700 | Compare |
| East Bakersfield | 10,377 | $36,039 | $202,400 | Compare |
| Hillcrest | 10,203 | $44,954 | $250,300 | Compare |
| Blackhawk | 10,404 | $239,681 | $1,948,900 | Compare |
| Garden Acres | 10,417 | $62,895 | $318,400 | Compare |
| Crestline | 10,431 | $79,378 | $363,500 | 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 Valley Center
What is the population of Valley Center, CA?
The population of Valley Center, CA is 10,303 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Valley Center?
The median household income in Valley Center, CA is $116,620 per year.
What is the median home value in Valley Center?
The median home value in Valley Center, CA is $809,300.
What is the average rent in Valley Center?
The median monthly rent in Valley Center, CA is $1,163.
What is the unemployment rate in Valley Center?
The unemployment rate in Valley Center, CA is 3.4%.