Wasco, CA
Population 26,222 · California
About Wasco, CA
Wasco is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 26,222 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,521 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 30.4 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 Wasco features a median home value of $251,900, which is 3% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Wasco in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $991, 15% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 6,455 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (3,526 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (2,437 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wasco shows an unemployment rate of 7.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 19.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Wasco have an average one-way commute time of 22.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
7.4% of Wasco 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 82.0% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, and 4.4% Asian residents, with 28.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Wasco, CA
Compared to national averages, Wasco has a median household income of $55,521 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $251,900, which is 3% above the national median. Monthly rent at $991 is 15% below the US average of $1,163. Within California, Wasco's income is 43% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 61% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Wasco, CA?
Wasco offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $991/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,521) that falls below the national average. However, Wasco’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Wasco has a population of 26,222 with a median age of 30.4 years. Compare Wasco with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Wasco
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hercules | 26,245 | $130,583 | $741,200 | Compare |
| Windsor | 26,179 | $129,004 | $763,200 | Compare |
| South Pasadena | 26,297 | $128,105 | $1,545,100 | Compare |
| Eureka | 26,302 | $60,253 | $375,800 | Compare |
| North Tustin | 26,038 | $186,250 | $1,212,400 | Compare |
| Sanger | 26,515 | $74,428 | $346,000 | Compare |
| Imperial Beach | 25,897 | $79,071 | $811,000 | Compare |
| Galt | 25,665 | $86,327 | $465,700 | 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 Wasco With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Wasco
What is the population of Wasco, CA?
The population of Wasco, CA is 26,222 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 Wasco?
The median household income in Wasco, CA is $55,521 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wasco?
The median home value in Wasco, CA is $251,900, which is 3% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Wasco?
The median monthly rent in Wasco, CA is $991, which is 15% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wasco?
The unemployment rate in Wasco, CA is 7.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Wasco, CA a good place to live?
Wasco offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 26,222 and a median age of 30.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Wasco, CA?
7.4% of residents in Wasco 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 Wasco?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wasco, CA: median home value is $251,900 (3% above national), median rent is $991/month, and median household income is $55,521. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.5x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Wasco?
The poverty rate in Wasco, CA is 19.2%, 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 Wasco, CA?
Wasco's population is 82.0% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, 4.4% Asian, and 4.0% two or more races. 28.6% of residents are foreign-born.