Cost of Living in Merced, CA
Population: 89,766 • 2026 Data
$59,938
Median Household Income
-23% vs national
$1,293
Median Monthly Rent
-4% vs national
$347,700
Median Home Value
+3% vs national
12.2%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in Merced
The median home value in Merced, CA is $347,700. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $1,293, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $1,352.
Rent-to-income ratio: 25.9%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in Merced, CA is $59,938. The unemployment rate stands at 12.2%, with a labor force of 40,788 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.