Merced, CA is a vibrant and growing metropolitan area, with an estimated population of 279,150 as of 2020 and a population density of 144.32 people per square mile. This makes it one of the most densely populated areas in the United States. Many businesses have flourished in Merced due to the city’s strategic location between San Francisco and Los Angeles, such as Walmart Supercenter, Merced Mall & Cinemas, Target, McDonald’s and many others. Merced also offers numerous year-round outdoor activities including hiking and biking trails at Applegate Park Zoo or Bear Creek Greenway Trail System; fishing in Lake Yosemite; boating on McClure Reservoir; or exploring El Portal Historical Museum's many different exhibits about local history and culture. Other demographic organizations such as Latino Resource Center provide community support and offer educational programs to residents while supporting their cultural heritage. In addition to all these attractions, there are countless sporting events that take place in Merced throughout the year such as The Big Valley Classic Soccer Tournament, The Merced Multi Sports Festival for volleyball or softball players, races like The Race To Freedom 5K/10K which is held annually on Memorial Day weekend and offers medals to its participants. All these events contribute to making this dynamic city an exciting place for families and individuals alike.
The population in Merced Metro Area is 279,150. There are 144 people per square mile aka population density. The median age in Merced Metro Area is 31.3, the US median age is 38.4. The number of people per household in Merced Metro Area is 3.4, the US average of people per household is 2.6.
Family in Merced Metro Area
- 47.2% are married
- 9.4% are divorced
- 38.2% are married with children
- 22.6% have children, but are single
Race in Merced Metro Area
- 28.8% are White
- 3.0% are Black
- 7.3% are Asian
- 0.3% are Native American
- 0.2% claim Other
- 58.2% claim Hispanic ethnicity
- 2.0% Two or more races
- 0.1% Hawaiian, Pacific Islander