Yolo County

Yolo County blends farmland charm with college-town energy and close-knit communities

Overview for Yolo County, CA

223,604 people live in Yolo County, where the median age is 33.4 years and the per capita income is $38,219. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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223,604 
Total Population 
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33.4 Years

Median Age
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Medium

Density

$38,219

Average Individual Income

Welcome to Yolo County

A welcoming region of rich farmland, historic towns, and vibrant university life.

Rolling farmlands, shaded riverways, and charming downtowns make Yolo County one of Northern California’s most inviting regions. The area blends small-town warmth with the cultural richness of a major university hub. Outdoor experiences thrive, from biking through rural landscapes to kayaking along the Sacramento River. A vibrant lifestyle centered on agriculture, education, and community connection awaits.

  • Expansive farmland and riverfront views perfect for outdoor recreation

  • A vibrant college-town energy centered around UC Davis

  • Farm-to-fork experiences, farmers’ markets, and artisanal cuisine

  • Strong sense of community with cultural festivals and local events

What to love

Yolo County offers a laid-back, community-oriented lifestyle where agriculture, education, and sustainability take center stage. Residents enjoy weekend farmers’ markets, bike rides along scenic trails, and strolls through the charming downtowns of Davis, Woodland, and Winters.

local Lifestyle

The region is deeply rooted in local farming traditions and environmental awareness. With UC Davis at its heart, Yolo attracts academics, creatives, and families alike. You'll find people connecting over community-supported agriculture (CSA) boxes, volunteering at co-ops, or attending local art walks and music festivals.

Whether you're enjoying a glass of wine in the Capay Valley or a night of live jazz in downtown Davis, life here is about balance—between progress and preservation, rural and urban. Yolo County embodies a grounded California lifestyle that blends simplicity, innovation, and connection.

Yolo County offers a refreshingly down-to-earth experience rooted in local agriculture and university culture. Downtown Davis is known for its eclectic eateries, bike-friendly streets, and vibrant student energy. From artisan bakeries and food co-ops to modern farm-to-fork restaurants, the region thrives on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping

Farmers' markets—especially the iconic Davis Farmers Market—highlight local produce, cheeses, honey, and handmade goods. Independent bookstores, vintage shops, and galleries fill the streets of towns like Winters and Woodland, while live music, local brews, and food trucks animate weekend nights.

  • Stroll or bike through UC Davis Arboretum’s lush trails and gardens

  • Sample local produce and crafts at the Davis or Woodland farmers markets

  • Catch live jazz, indie films, and student performances in downtown Davis

  • Paddle along the Sacramento River or enjoy nature at Putah Creek and Grasslands Park

Things to Do

Yolo County values educational excellence, offering diverse and enriching learning environments supported by dedicated communities and strong ties to higher education. The presence of UC Davis—a world-renowned research university—helps shape a culture of innovation, academic rigor, and opportunity.

Education in Yolo County is characterized by:

  • A strong emphasis on STEAM education and sustainability, influenced by UC Davis’s academic leadership

  • Investment in student success through modern facilities, inclusive programs, and mental health resources

  • Supportive school districts that encourage parent involvement, community engagement, and bilingual education

  • Varied school sizes, allowing for both personalized learning and access to wider extracurricular opportunities

  • College and career readiness programs that prepare students for fields in agriculture, environmental science, health, and engineering

  • A focus on equity and access, ensuring students from all backgrounds receive high-quality instruction and support

With a balance of academic focus and community-driven values, Yolo County schools provide families a supportive and forward-thinking place to grow and learn.

Schools

Demographics and Employment Data for Yolo County, CA

Population Overview - Yolo County

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Yolo County is home to approximately 223,604 people. The population density is about 220 people per square mile. The largest age group is between 20 and 34 years old, influenced by UC Davis, and the median age is 33.4.

  • Total Population: 223,604
  • Population Density: 220/sq mi
  • Median Age: 33.4
  • Largest Age Group: 20–34 years
Population by Age Group
0–9 Years
10–17 Years
18–24 Years
25–64 Years
65+ Years
Education Level
Less than 9th Grade High School or Some HS Some College or Higher

Household Data - Yolo County

Yolo County has approximately 76,000 households, with an average household size of 2.8. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

  • Total Households: 76,000
  • Average Household Size: 2.8
  • Average Household Income: $79,302
Households with Children
With Children: ~33% Without Children: ~67%
Marital Status
Married – 44%
Single – 36%
Divorced – 12%
Widowed – 8%

Employment & Economy - Yolo County

Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Yolo County do for work — and how long it takes them to get there.

  • Employment Rate: 60.1%
  • Unemployment Rate: ~4.7%
  • Median Household Income: $79,302
  • Top Industries: Education, Agriculture, Healthcare, Government
Blue vs White Collar Workers
Blue Collar: 33% White Collar: 67%
Commute Time
0–14 Minutes – 25%
15–29 Minutes – 32%
30–59 Minutes – 28%
60+ Minutes – 15%

Cesar Chavez Elementary School

1221 Anderson Rd, Davis, CA 95616

Type: Public | Grades: K–6

★★★★☆ 4.2/5

Beamer Elementary School

525 Beamer St, Woodland, CA 95695

Type: Public | Grades: K–6

★★★★☆ 4.1/5

Maxwell Elementary School

50 Ashley Ave, Woodland, CA 95695

Type: Public | Grades: K–6

★★★★☆ 4.3/5

Pioneer Elementary School

5215 Hamel Street, Davis, CA 95618

Type: Public | Grades: K–6

★★★★☆ 4.0/5

Emerson Junior High School

2121 Calaveras Ave, Davis, CA 95616

Type: Public | Grades: 7–9

★★★★☆ 4.3/5

Harper Junior High School

4000 E Covell Blvd, Davis, CA 95618

Type: Public | Grades: 7–9

★★★★☆ 4.4/5

Douglass Middle School

525 Granada Dr, Woodland, CA 95695

Type: Public | Grades: 7–8

★★★★☆ 4.1/5

Lee Middle School

520 West St, Woodland, CA 95695

Type: Public | Grades: 7–8

★★★★☆ 4.0/5

Davis Senior High School

315 W 14th St, Davis, CA 95616

Type: Public | Grades: 10–12

★★★★☆ 4.4/5

Woodland High School

21 N West St, Woodland, CA 95695

Type: Public | Grades: 9–12

★★★★☆ 4.2/5

Pioneer High School

1400 Pioneer Ave, Woodland, CA 95776

Type: Public | Grades: 9–12

★★★★☆ 4.1/5

University of California, Davis

1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616

Type: Public University | Degrees: B.A., B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

★★★★★ 4.8/5

Sacramento City College – Davis Center

1720 Jade St, Davis, CA 95616

Type: Community College | Degrees: A.A., A.S., Transfer

★★★★☆ 4.2/5

Schools in Yolo County, CA

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2880 Vaca Valley Road, Vacaville, CA 95688