California, PA
Population 5,046 · Pennsylvania
About California, PA
California is a small town located in Pennsylvania with a population of 5,046 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,500 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 21.4 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 California features a median home value of $142,600, which is 42% 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 $792, 32% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,753 total housing units, 46% are owner-occupied (662 units) and 54% are renter-occupied (782 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in California shows an unemployment rate of 11.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 27.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in California have an average one-way commute time of 19.8 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
29.6% of California residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.8% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 2.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in California, PA
Compared to national averages, California has a median household income of $49,500 (34% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $142,600, which is 42% below the national median. Monthly rent at $792 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, California's income is 33% below the state average of $73,376, and home values are 25% below the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in California, PA?
California offers affordable housing with a median home value of $142,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $792/month, and short commute times averaging just 19.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,500) 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 5,046 with a median age of 21.4 years. Compare California with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near California
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turtle Creek | 5,046 | $44,449 | $85,900 | Compare |
| Duryea | 5,054 | $64,028 | $142,900 | Compare |
| Clarks Summit | 5,058 | $91,442 | $236,900 | Compare |
| Manheim | 5,028 | $81,484 | $218,100 | Compare |
| Vandergrift | 5,028 | $50,351 | $91,500 | Compare |
| Spring House | 5,068 | $178,068 | $668,400 | Compare |
| Swoyersville | 5,014 | $67,558 | $137,000 | Compare |
| West York | 5,081 | $67,938 | $113,400 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Pennsylvania
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, PA?
The population of California, PA is 5,046 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Pennsylvania.
What is the median household income in California?
The median household income in California, PA is $49,500 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in California?
The median home value in California, PA is $142,600, which is 42% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in California?
The median monthly rent in California, PA is $792, which is 32% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in California?
The unemployment rate in California, PA is 11.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is California, PA a good place to live?
California offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 5,046 and a median age of 21.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is California, PA?
29.6% 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, PA: median home value is $142,600 (42% below national), median rent is $792/month, and median household income is $49,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in California?
The poverty rate in California, PA is 27.2%, 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 California, PA?
California's population is 0.8% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 11.7% two or more races. 2.3% of residents are foreign-born.