Population Government data
The Santa Maria area's population shrank 1.4% from 2020 to 2025 (448,325 → 442,065), ranking #350 of 387 metros for growth (typical metro +2.5%). More people moved out than in (net -15,917).
Census Bureau population estimates, July 1 of each year, 2020–2025.
New homes permitted Government data
New-home permits in Santa Maria are up 19% from 2021 to 2025 (1,152 → 1,371). Permits are a sign of construction activity, not a count of open jobs.
Census Building Permits Survey, annual 2021–2025.
Local housing Government data
The Santa Maria area has about 162,335 homes. 59% were built before 1980 (typical metro 45%), so its housing is older than most; 8% were built in 2010 or later. Older homes often need more repair, replacement and upgrade work. 52% of households own their home, and the median home value is $900,900.
Census American Community Survey, 2024 1-year estimates (table DP04).
Highest-paying trades
All 30 trades
Click a column to sort. Jobs are employment estimates, not open positions.
| Trade | Median pay | Jobs | U.S. rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Building Inspector | $112,550 | 210 | #3 |
| Telecom Line Installer | $95,340 | 40 | #34 |
| Construction Supervisor | $89,190 | 780 | #72 |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $81,500 | 400 | #42 |
| HVAC Technician | $78,640 | 260 | #8 |
| Telecom Equipment Installer | $75,690 | 110 | #55 |
| Electrician | $75,290 | 630 | #110 |
| Carpenter | $75,140 | 1,100 | #25 |
| Sheet Metal Worker | $70,420 | 90 | #87 |
| Diesel Mechanic | $70,060 | 210 | #41 |
| Industrial Machinery Mechanic | $67,890 | 200 | #130 |
| Glazier | $66,520 | 70 | #19 |
| Drywall Installer | $64,370 | 440 | #24 |
| Brickmason | $63,600 | 30 | #69 |
| Auto Body Repairer | $63,360 | 120 | #17 |
| Roofer | $61,390 | 390 | #53 |
| Auto Mechanic | $61,110 | 700 | #27 |
| Plumber | $61,000 | 740 | #204 |
| Plasterer | $60,130 | 160 | #26 |
| Solar Installer | $59,960 | 100 | #14 |
| Concrete Finisher | $59,450 | 400 | #135 |
| Machinist | $58,690 | 130 | #140 |
| Tile Setter | $58,680 | 160 | #34 |
| Painter | $56,420 | 870 | #69 |
| Construction Laborer | $56,140 | 1,150 | #70 |
| Welder | $52,800 | 170 | #179 |
| Maintenance Technician | $52,780 | 1,980 | #93 |
| Hazmat Removal Worker | $51,260 | 90 | #41 |
| Pest Control Technician | $47,060 | 140 | #47 |
| Landscaper | $45,230 | 2,470 | #46 |
Pay: BLS OEWS, May 2025 (metro-level). Real pay: BEA price parities, 2024. How we calculate
Nearby metros
See every metro in California.