Merced County's 2026 population is estimated at 301,518, reflecting a 0.79% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). Merced County is the 23rd largest county in California. The 2010 population was 256,709 and has grown 17.46% since 2010.
Data after 2023 is projected based on recent change
Overall: 31.8 years
Female: 32.5 years
Male: 31.1 years
There are 206,871 adults, (34,001 of whom are seniors) in Merced County.
Female: 142,969 (49.3%)
Male: 147,232 (50.7%)
The racial composition of Merced County includes 41.27% other race, 31.52% White, 7.23% Asian, and smaller percentages for Black or African American, Native American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and multiracial populations.
| Race | Population ↓ | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| Other race | 119,779 | 41.27% |
| White | 91,462 | 31.52% |
| Two or more races | 44,616 | 15.37% |
| Asian | 20,971 | 7.23% |
| Black or African American | 8,082 | 2.78% |
| Native American | 4,316 | 1.49% |
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | 975 | 0.34% |
Merced County 's average per capita income is $42,804. Household income levels show a median of $65,510. The poverty rate stands at 19.09%.
| Name | Median ↓ | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $89,663 | $114,631 |
| Families | $74,507 | $96,598 |
| Households | $65,510 | $87,781 |
| Non Families | $36,571 | $53,366 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate