Watsonville, CA
Population 51,968 · California
About Watsonville, CA
Watsonville is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 51,968 residents. The median household income is $74,785 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Watsonville is 32.7 years.
Housing in Watsonville has a median home value of $657,700 and median monthly rent of $1,784. Of the 15,792 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 6,657 owner-occupied and 8,610 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Watsonville is 7.9% and the poverty rate is 15.1%. 12.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 26.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Watsonville, CA
Compared to national averages, Watsonville has a median household income of $74,785 (0% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $657,700, which is 169% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,784 is 53% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Watsonville's income is 24% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 1% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Watsonville, CA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($74,785) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $657,700. However, as a mid-sized city, Watsonville provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Watsonville has a population of 51,968 with a median age of 32.7 years. Compare Watsonville with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Watsonville
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cathedral City | 52,047 | $67,031 | $420,700 | Compare |
| Lincoln | 51,629 | $108,108 | $628,500 | Compare |
| Placentia | 52,384 | $110,575 | $871,000 | Compare |
| Palm Desert | 51,551 | $79,508 | $491,600 | Compare |
| Paramount | 52,546 | $70,912 | $500,400 | Compare |
| Glendora | 51,350 | $111,915 | $820,800 | Compare |
| Aliso Viejo | 51,320 | $137,970 | $863,800 | Compare |
| Novato | 52,689 | $112,193 | $1,007,100 | 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 Watsonville
What is the population of Watsonville, CA?
The population of Watsonville, CA is 51,968 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Watsonville?
The median household income in Watsonville, CA is $74,785 per year.
What is the median home value in Watsonville?
The median home value in Watsonville, CA is $657,700.
What is the average rent in Watsonville?
The median monthly rent in Watsonville, CA is $1,784.
What is the unemployment rate in Watsonville?
The unemployment rate in Watsonville, CA is 7.9%.