Merced, CA Census Data

Key demographic and economic indicators for Merced, California from the 2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

Updated: 2026-03-23 · Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2023

Population 89,766
49.4% male · 50.6% female
Median Age 29.8
8.9 below the national average (38.7 yrs)
Median Household Income $59,938
18,600.0 below the national average ($78,538)
Bachelor's Degree or Higher 18.0%
17.0 below the national average (35.0%)
HS diploma or higher: 77.2%
Poverty Rate 23.0%
10.6 above the national average (12.4%)
Uninsured: 8.2%
Broadband Access 95.4%
5.7 above the national average (89.7%)
Median Home Value $347,700
Median rent: $1,293 · 44% owner-occupied
Unemployment Rate 12.3%
Labor force participation: 54.2%

Demographics

Race & Ethnicity

Age Distribution

Commute to Work

Merced, CA Frequently Asked Questions

What is the population of Merced, CA?
The population of Merced, CA is 89,766 according to the 2023 American Community Survey 5-year estimates. The median age is 29.8 years.
What is the median household income in Merced?
The median household income in Merced, CA is $59,938, below the national average of $78,538. Per capita income is $35,288.
What is the poverty rate in Merced?
The poverty rate in Merced, CA is 23.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. About 8.2% of residents lack health insurance.
What percentage of Merced residents have a college degree?
18.0% of adults (25+) in Merced hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and 77.2% have at least a high school diploma. The national average for bachelor's degree holders is 35.0%.
What is the median home value in Merced?
The median home value in Merced, CA is $347,700. Median rent is $1,293 per month, with 44% of housing units owner-occupied.
What is the racial makeup of Merced?
Merced's population is 31.7% White, 4.9% Black, 58.5% Hispanic or Latino, and 9.8% Asian (source: 2023 ACS).