Nevada County, California Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Nevada County is located in California with a total population of 102,452. It is the 36th most populous county out of 58 in California.

Age Demographics

The median age in Nevada County is 50.3 years. This is 34% higher than the state median of 37.6 years. 11.6% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Nevada County is $84,905. This is 12% lower than the state median of $96,334. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 8% higher. The poverty rate stands at 10.6%. This is 12% lower than the state poverty rate of 12.0%. The unemployment rate is 4.7%. This is 27% lower than the state rate of 6.4%. The median home value is $602,800. Housing costs are 13% lower than the state median of $695,400. The home-value-to-income ratio of 7.1x suggests that housing affordability is a significant concern for many residents. 74.4% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 33% higher than the state average of 55.8%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Nevada County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 81.7% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 10.5%. The White (non-Hispanic) population is significantly higher than the state average (81.7% vs 34.6%). The Black or African American population (0.3%) is well below the state average of 5.3%. The Hispanic or Latino population (10.5%) is well below the state average of 39.8%. The Asian population (1.5%) is well below the state average of 15.0%.

Education

39.5% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 8% higher than the state rate of 36.5%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 95.1%.