California, MO
Population 4,523 · Missouri
About California, MO
California is a small town located in Missouri with a population of 4,523 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,506 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in California features a median home value of $123,700, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes California one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $773, 34% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,121 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (1,389 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (628 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in California shows an unemployment rate of 4.2%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 10.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in California have an average one-way commute time of 25.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.6% of California 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 13.0% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 5.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in California, MO
Compared to national averages, California has a median household income of $60,506 (19% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $123,700, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $773 is 34% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, California's income is 1% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 18% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in California, MO?
California offers affordable housing with a median home value of $123,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $773/month, and a low poverty rate of 10.2%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,506) that falls below the national average. However, California’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
California has a population of 4,523 with a median age of 39.3 years. Compare California with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near California
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Vernon | 4,532 | $49,153 | $175,000 | Compare |
| Rogersville | 4,496 | $51,375 | $205,900 | Compare |
| Mountain Grove | 4,494 | $41,875 | $89,300 | Compare |
| Eldon | 4,486 | $39,202 | $116,900 | Compare |
| Charleston | 4,565 | $35,139 | $107,700 | Compare |
| Holts Summit | 4,572 | $81,927 | $184,400 | Compare |
| Fredericktown | 4,464 | $53,681 | $120,200 | Compare |
| Butler | 4,594 | $36,276 | $124,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Missouri
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare California With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about California
What is the population of California, MO?
The population of California, MO is 4,523 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Missouri.
What is the median household income in California?
The median household income in California, MO is $60,506 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in California?
The median home value in California, MO is $123,700, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in California?
The median monthly rent in California, MO is $773, which is 34% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in California?
The unemployment rate in California, MO is 4.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is California, MO a good place to live?
California offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,523 and a median age of 39.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is California, MO?
14.6% of residents in California 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 California?
Key cost-of-living indicators for California, MO: median home value is $123,700 (49% below national), median rent is $773/month, and median household income is $60,506. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in California?
The poverty rate in California, MO 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 California, MO?
California's population is 13.0% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.9% two or more races. 5.0% of residents are foreign-born.