Willows, CA
Population 6,239 · California
About Willows, CA
Willows is a small town located in California with a population of 6,239 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $78,179 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35 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 Willows features a median home value of $286,200, which is 17% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Willows in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,149, 1% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,465 total housing units, 54% are owner-occupied (1,196 units) and 46% are renter-occupied (1,016 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Willows shows an unemployment rate of 9.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Willows have an average one-way commute time of 21.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.7% of Willows 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 36.1% White, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 16.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Willows, CA
Compared to national averages, Willows has a median household income of $78,179 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $286,200, which is 17% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,149 is 1% below the US average of $1,163. Within California, Willows's income is 20% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 56% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Willows, CA?
Willows offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $78,179, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,149/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.3 minutes.
Willows has a population of 6,239 with a median age of 35 years. Compare Willows with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Willows
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salton City | 6,244 | $36,915 | $189,800 | Compare |
| Wilton | 6,198 | $171,579 | $891,200 | Compare |
| Crescent City | 6,180 | $41,131 | $290,500 | Compare |
| Hilmar-Irwin | 6,317 | $76,492 | $420,600 | Compare |
| Lucas Valley-Marinwood | 6,331 | $200,938 | $1,360,000 | Compare |
| El Rio | 6,343 | $83,233 | $639,600 | Compare |
| Aptos | 6,124 | $135,349 | $1,098,200 | Compare |
| Gustine | 6,118 | $58,321 | $422,500 | 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.
Compare Willows With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Willows
What is the population of Willows, CA?
The population of Willows, CA is 6,239 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 Willows?
The median household income in Willows, CA is $78,179 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Willows?
The median home value in Willows, CA is $286,200, which is 17% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Willows?
The median monthly rent in Willows, CA is $1,149, which is 1% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Willows?
The unemployment rate in Willows, CA is 9.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Willows, CA a good place to live?
Willows offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 6,239 and a median age of 35, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Willows, CA?
19.7% of residents in Willows 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 Willows?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Willows, CA: median home value is $286,200 (17% above national), median rent is $1,149/month, and median household income is $78,179. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Willows?
The poverty rate in Willows, CA is 15.3%, 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 Willows, CA?
Willows's population is 36.1% White, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 0.5% two or more races. 16.7% of residents are foreign-born.