Vista, CA
Population 98,646 · California
About Vista, CA
Vista is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 98,646 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $91,854 per year, which is 22% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.9 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 Vista features a median home value of $674,400, which is 175% above the national median of $244,900. This places Vista in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $2,148, 85% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 32,589 total housing units, 49% are owner-occupied (15,398 units) and 51% are renter-occupied (15,923 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 Vista shows an unemployment rate of 6.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 10.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Vista have an average one-way commute time of 26.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
27.2% of Vista residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 45.6% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, and 3.0% Asian residents, with 23.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Vista, CA
Compared to national averages, Vista has a median household income of $91,854 (22% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $674,400, which is 175% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,148 is 85% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Vista's income is 6% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 3% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Vista, CA?
Vista offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $91,854, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 10.2%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $674,400. However, as a mid-sized city, Vista provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Vista has a population of 98,646 with a median age of 34.9 years. Compare Vista with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Vista
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hesperia | 100,141 | $68,971 | $366,800 | Compare |
| Norwalk | 100,713 | $98,709 | $616,600 | Compare |
| Arden-Arcade | 96,319 | $71,767 | $504,400 | Compare |
| Tracy | 95,358 | $118,253 | $653,900 | Compare |
| Chico | 102,032 | $67,929 | $455,300 | Compare |
| Vacaville | 102,085 | $108,580 | $596,700 | Compare |
| Daly City | 102,560 | $119,570 | $1,092,700 | Compare |
| San Marcos | 94,078 | $105,286 | $792,400 | 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 Vista With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Vista
What is the population of Vista, CA?
The population of Vista, CA is 98,646 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 Vista?
The median household income in Vista, CA is $91,854 per year, which is 22% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Vista?
The median home value in Vista, CA is $674,400, which is 175% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Vista?
The median monthly rent in Vista, CA is $2,148, which is 85% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Vista?
The unemployment rate in Vista, CA is 6.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Vista, CA a good place to live?
Vista offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 98,646 and a median age of 34.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Vista, CA?
27.2% of residents in Vista 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 Vista?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Vista, CA: median home value is $674,400 (175% above national), median rent is $2,148/month, and median household income is $91,854. The home-value-to-income ratio is 7.3x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Vista?
The poverty rate in Vista, CA is 10.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Vista, CA?
Vista's population is 45.6% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, 3.0% Asian, and 2.7% two or more races. 23.1% of residents are foreign-born.