Merced County, California
Income Data
At a Glance
How Merced County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Merced County, California
Merced County earns below the U.S. median
Merced County's median household income of $65,044 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by 13%, reflecting a rural agricultural economy with limited high-wage sectors. The county ranks in the lower-middle tier nationally.
Merced ranks among California's lowest-income counties
At $65,044, Merced County's median household income is 25% below California's state average of $87,001. The county ranks in the lower quartile among California's 58 counties.
Merced aligns with rural California's income peer group
Merced County ($65,044) earns similarly to Mendocino ($64,688) and Lassen ($64,395), anchoring the lower tier of rural California counties. The tight income clustering across these counties reflects shared structural economic challenges.
Merced's housing costs consume significant household resources
At 23.7%, Merced County's rent-to-income ratio sits below the 25% threshold, but median home values of $368,400 still require dual incomes or substantial savings. Limited wealth-building capacity strains household finances and long-term security.
Merced households should pursue skills-based income growth
With median income below state and national averages, Merced County residents should prioritize education, job training, and side income opportunities. Even modest income increases through career advancement or supplementary work can meaningfully improve financial stability and wealth-building prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Income Comparison Calculator
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Your income is above the Merced County median
County median: $65,044 per year
vs. County Median
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vs. State Average
-25%
vs. National Median
-13%
Income Adequacy
Your monthly income ($5,420) vs. median rent ($1,284/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.