Waterford, CA
Population 9,177 · California
About Waterford, CA
Waterford is a small town located in California with a population of 9,177 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $73,092 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 28.9 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 Waterford features a median home value of $372,900, which is 52% above the national median of $244,900. This places Waterford in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,567, 35% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,626 total housing units, 54% are owner-occupied (1,290 units) and 46% are renter-occupied (1,109 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Waterford shows an unemployment rate of 6.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Waterford have an average one-way commute time of 28.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.1% of Waterford 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 53.1% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.9% Asian residents, with 21.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Waterford, CA
Compared to national averages, Waterford has a median household income of $73,092 (3% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $372,900, which is 52% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,567 is 35% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Waterford's income is 25% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 43% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Waterford, CA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($73,092) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $372,900. However, Waterford’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Waterford has a population of 9,177 with a median age of 28.9 years. Compare Waterford with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Waterford
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Live Oak | 9,264 | $66,590 | $317,900 | Compare |
| West Athens | 9,064 | $77,750 | $666,100 | Compare |
| Tiburon | 9,035 | $212,794 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Charter Oak | 9,414 | $84,101 | $601,900 | Compare |
| Rio del Mar | 8,938 | $150,313 | $1,242,600 | Compare |
| Cloverdale | 8,933 | $104,238 | $613,400 | Compare |
| Mentone | 9,487 | $70,466 | $414,200 | Compare |
| Larkfield-Wikiup | 8,861 | $94,889 | $670,800 | 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 Waterford With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Waterford
What is the population of Waterford, CA?
The population of Waterford, CA is 9,177 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in California.
What is the median household income in Waterford?
The median household income in Waterford, CA is $73,092 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Waterford?
The median home value in Waterford, CA is $372,900, which is 52% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Waterford?
The median monthly rent in Waterford, CA is $1,567, which is 35% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Waterford?
The unemployment rate in Waterford, CA is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Waterford, CA a good place to live?
Waterford offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 9,177 and a median age of 28.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Waterford, CA?
8.1% of residents in Waterford 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 Waterford?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Waterford, CA: median home value is $372,900 (52% above national), median rent is $1,567/month, and median household income is $73,092. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.1x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Waterford?
The poverty rate in Waterford, CA is 13.8%, 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 Waterford, CA?
Waterford's population is 53.1% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.9% Asian, and 0.9% two or more races. 21.9% of residents are foreign-born.