Santa Cruz County's 2026 population is estimated at 256,287, reflecting a -0.99% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). Santa Cruz County is the 25th largest county in California. The 2010 population was 263,174 and has grown -2.62% since 2010.
Overall: 39.8 years
Female: 40.7 years
Male: 38.8 years
There are 216,213 adults, (50,275 of whom are seniors) in Santa Cruz County.
Female: 132,899 (50.2%)
Male: 132,027 (49.8%)
The racial composition of Santa Cruz County includes 60.02% White, 17.07% other race, 4.89% Asian, and smaller percentages for Native American, Black or African American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and multiracial populations.
| Race | Population ↓ | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 159,010 | 60.02% |
| Other race | 45,229 | 17.07% |
| Two or more races | 41,912 | 15.82% |
| Asian | 12,961 | 4.89% |
| Native American | 3,172 | 1.2% |
| Black or African American | 2,200 | 0.83% |
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | 442 | 0.17% |
Santa Cruz County 's average per capita income is $61,017. Household income levels show a median of $111,093. The poverty rate stands at 11.62%.
| Name | Median ↓ | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $160,777 | $207,160 |
| Families | $133,378 | $181,829 |
| Households | $111,093 | $156,439 |
| Non Families | $69,306 | $103,574 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate