Statistic San Francisco California National
Population 874,784 39,512,223 328,239,523
Population density (sq mi) 18,647 256 91
Median age 38.3 36.0 37.7
Male/Female ratio 1.0:1 1.0:1 1.0:1
Married (15yrs & older) 45% 52% 55%
Families w/ Kids under 18 35% 46% 43%
Speak English 57% 56% 79%
Speak Spanish 11% 29% 13%

Overview of San Francisco Demographics

The demographics of San Francisco offer invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of both urban and rural areas, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to foster prosperity, equity, and well-being for all residents. With a population of 874,784, San Francisco exhibits a population density of 18,647 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 38.3, with 45% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 35% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in San Francisco, 15% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 48% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.

San Francisco Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

Recognizing the racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown of San Francisco is pivotal for addressing systemic inequities, championing social justice and inclusion and fostering resilient communities. In San Francisco, the racial breakdown comprises 44.9% White, 5.1% Black or African American, 34.3% Asian, 0.4% American Indian, and 0.4% Native Hawaiian, with 15.2% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. 57.4% of households reported speaking English only, while 10.6% reported speaking Spanish only. Furthermore, 34.2% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.

San Francisco Population Density

The San Francisco population density comes in at 18,647 people per square mile, which makes it one of the most densely populated areas in the country, far surpassing the national average of 91. Areas characterized by high population density often boast an abundance of amenities and services within close proximity, providing residents with convenient access to healthcare, education, cultural attractions, dining establishments, retail outlets and transportation options. This accessibility could potentially enhance residents' overall quality of life and well-being.

Why are Demographics Important?

Healthcare Planning: The analysis of San Francisco demographics can offer insights into healthcare planning and delivery, identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. By understanding demographic trends, healthcare providers and policymakers can allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs and address health inequities within communities. Through the use of demographic data and statistics, healthcare providers and policymakers aim to achieve equitable, accessible and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive approach to healthcare planning ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and customized healthcare services to meet the diverse needs of populations.

Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics play a fundamental role in informing policy and decision-making processes across government entities, organizations and businesses. Through the analysis and interpretation of San Francisco demographic data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas of concern, allocate resources efficiently, and devise policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic groups. The utilization of demographics in San Francisco can be crucial in policy planning, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, forecasting future trends, monitoring policy outcomes and advancing principles of equity and inclusion. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can develop policies that are targeted, effective and inclusive, thus meeting the diverse needs of communities.

Education Allocation: In education planning, San Francisco demographic data can be invaluable for identifying student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs. This data aids schools and policymakers in resource allocation and the formulation of effective educational programs. It serves as a crucial tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among different demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status and students with disabilities. Through the disaggregation of data by demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support, and outcomes for marginalized students. Overall, San Francisco demographic data can be an essential tool in education for promoting equity, facilitating student success, and nurturing inclusive learning environments that cater to the needs of all students.

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Demographics Quick Facts

  • The population density in San Francisco is 7184% higher than California
  • The median age in San Francisco is 6% higher than California
  • In San Francisco 44.87% of the population is White
  • In San Francisco 5.14% of the population is Black
  • In San Francisco 34.33% of the population is Asian

Compare San Francisco, CA Demographics

      vs

      San Francisco racial demographics

      Race San Francisco California National
      White 44.87% 61.26% 73.35%
      Black 5.14% 5.85% 12.63%
      Asian 34.33% 13.85% 5.22%
      American Indian 0.43% 0.74% 0.82%
      Native Hawaiian 0.36% 0.39% 0.18%
      Mixed race 7.17% 4.62% 3.06%
      Other race 7.70% 13.28% 4.75%
      In San Francisco, 15.2% of people are of Hispanic or Latino origin.
      Please note: Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in any/all of the applicable race categories above.

      Household income distribution

      Place of birth by citizenship

      San Francisco age breakdown

      Marital status

      Age of children in married couples

      Source: The San Francisco, CA demographics data displayed above is derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS).