Life in Daly City Overview

Daly City is the largest city in San Mateo County, home to over 102,000 residents. Often referred to as the "Gateway to the Peninsula," it stretches from the Pacific Ocean to just shy of the Bay and sits directly south of San Francisco, just eight miles from downtown and minutes from SFO. Thanks to its location and diverse economy, Daly City continues to grow as a hub for healthcare, retail, small business, and commuting professionals.

In 2023, Daly City had a labor force of nearly 52,000 people, many of whom work in nearby San Francisco or South San Francisco. The median household income was estimated at over $90,000, and the per capita income in 2022 was $48,219, placing it comfortably in the upper-middle-income bracket. A considerable 12.8% of the workforce works from home, which reflects the city’s growing base of remote professionals, creatives, and self-employed entrepreneurs.

Daly City is also one of the most diverse cities in the state, with Asian (50%+), White, Hispanic or Latino ( 21.5%) ethnicities. Over 50% of residents were born outside the U.S., and Daly City is home to vibrant Filipino, Chinese, and Latino communities. Tagalog, English, and Chinese are among the most commonly spoken languages. 

With 38% of adults holding a bachelor’s or advanced degree, Daly City is also highly educated and upwardly mobile. The city’s appeal goes beyond convenience. It's a place where working professionals, families, and students alike can find community, culture, and opportunity.