Overview for Sonoma County, CA

485,887 people live in Sonoma County, where the median age is 42.2 years and the per capita income is about $54,600. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau

485,887

Total Population

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42.2 Years

Median Age

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Medium

Density

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$54,600

Average Individual Income

Welcome to Sonoma County

A diverse region of scenic coastlines, redwood forests, and world-class vineyards.

Rolling hills, ocean breezes, and vibrant downtowns give Sonoma County its signature mix of rustic beauty and refined culture. From laid-back beach towns to award-winning wineries and farm-to-table restaurants, Sonoma offers a lifestyle that’s both peaceful and enriching. Outdoor lovers can hike through redwood preserves, explore the Russian River, or take a drive along Highway 1. Whether you're drawn by nature, food, or community, Sonoma County delivers.

What to love

Breathtaking coastal landscapes and towering redwood forests
Laid-back charm with a strong sense of local pride and sustainability
Renowned wineries, craft breweries, and farm-to-table dining
Eclectic small towns with vibrant art, music, and maker communities
Year-round outdoor recreation from hiking and biking to kayaking
Weekly farmers’ markets, artisan fairs, and community festivals

local Lifestyle

Sonoma County residents enjoy a lifestyle rooted in natural beauty, creativity, and community. Whether you’re exploring redwood forests, savoring farm-to-table meals, or strolling through local art walks, the county offers a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere for all walks of life.

Weekends in Sonoma often include wine tastings at family-owned vineyards, coastal hikes with sweeping Pacific views, or casual gatherings at one of the many farmers’ markets. The county’s towns—from Healdsburg to Sebastopol—foster a culture of sustainability, wellness, and artistic expression. Events like seasonal harvest fairs, outdoor concerts, and artisan markets highlight the region’s deep connection to land and community.

At its heart, Sonoma County celebrates simplicity with sophistication: organic produce, craft breweries, and intimate cultural events replace big-city distractions. Whether you're raising a family, growing a business, or enjoying a slower pace of life, Sonoma invites you to live richly—rooted in authenticity and local pride.

Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping

Sonoma County is a haven for food lovers and culture seekers. Its farm-to-table philosophy and abundant local farms inspire seasonal menus at acclaimed restaurants and laid-back eateries alike. From charming cafés in Sebastopol to Michelin-starred dining in Healdsburg, Sonoma’s culinary scene is both authentic and elevated.

Downtown areas like Petaluma, Sonoma, and Santa Rosa offer a lively mix of artisan shops, independent bookstores, wine bars, music venues, and public art displays. Boutique wineries, craft breweries, and farmers' markets reflect the region’s deep agricultural roots and commitment to sustainability, while local makers provide one-of-a-kind finds around every corner.

Things to Do

Sip and stroll through picturesque towns like Healdsburg, Glen Ellen, and Sebastopol
Hike or bike in Armstrong Redwoods, Sugarloaf Ridge, or Sonoma Coast State Park
Enjoy live music, street fairs, and film festivals throughout the year
Visit the Charles M. Schulz Museum or catch a show at Luther Burbank Center for the Arts
Take a hot air balloon ride over vineyards or kayak along the Russian River

Schools

Sonoma County is deeply committed to educational excellence, blending strong academics with community support and innovative programs. The county’s schools consistently strive for high performance, offering well-rounded learning environments that serve diverse student needs.

Education in Sonoma County is shaped by:

A regional emphasis on student achievement, with schools focusing on foundational skills in math, reading, and science
Investments in modern learning tools, career and technical education, and STEAM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Arts, Math) initiatives
A balance of rural and suburban school settings that foster personalized attention and small-classroom engagement
Inclusive programming for multilingual learners, students with disabilities, and advanced learners
Strong connections with local industries—from agriculture and viticulture to sustainability and technology—supporting career pathway development
A culture of community involvement, where parents, educators, and local organizations work together to enrich student experiences

Sonoma County’s commitment to education reflects its broader values—equity, innovation, and a community-first mindset—making it a rewarding place for families and future generations.

Demographics and Employment Data for Napa County, CA

Population Overview - Sonoma County

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Sonoma County is home to approximately 485,887 people. The population density is about 312 people per square mile. The largest age group is between 25 and 64 years old, and the median age is 42.2.