While Walnut Creek has rather humble origins, the small city has managed to develop quite the community. With an estimated population of 66,584, the town that was incorporated in 1914 spans 19.45 square miles 131 feet above sea level. Walnut Creek is relatively small, but a lot can be derived by looking at its demographics. The population is almost 54 percent female, while it is only 16 percent children, which is lower than the state average. Residents over 65 years old make up 26 percent of the population. The racial makeup of the population, according to the U.S. Census Community Survey, is as follows:
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White: 82% (compared with 83.9% in 2000; 90.8% in 1990)
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Asian or Pacific Islander: 12% (compared with 9.4% in 2000; 6.7% in 1990)
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Latino or Hispanic: 6% (6% in 2000; not tracked in 1990)
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Black: 2% (compared with 1.1% in 2000; 0.8% in 1990)
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All others: 4%
When it comes to political affiliations, Walnut Creek residents appear to be mostly Democrats, with 18,912 of the 42,185 registered voters naming themselves as such, but the number of reported Republicans is not far behind at 12,848. However, 7,869 of the people who took the survey declined to state, so the actual political makeup of the town could be slightly different. While the majority of residents identify themselves as affiliated with the two major political parties, 777 claim to be American Independents; 275 say they are Green Party; 169 are Libertarian; 49 are Peace & Freedom; 286 are miscellaneous.
Of the population that is 25 years old or older, 95 percent have at least a high school diploma, while 56 percent has a bachelor’s degree or higher, which is higher than the state average. This high education level combined with the area in which Walnut Creek is located results in a higher-than-average income level for households in California. Of the more than 30,000 households in Walnut Creek, the median income is $76,522, while the mean is $85,685.
The city is decidedly white-collar, with 93 percent of workers holding these types of jobs. The top employers in Walnut Creek include John Muir Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Bank of the West, Central Garden & Pet, City of Walnut Creek, Contra Costa Time, ManorCare Health Services, Target and The PMI Group, Inc. With such quality jobs located in town, many residents do not have to travel far for work. However, Walnut Creek is located only a short drive from Oakland and other cities, so commuting for a job is easily done. The city is also a great place for creative types. There are more artists, designers and people who work in media in Walnut Creek than in 90 percent of U.S. communities.
The average size of the Walnut Creek household is lower than that of the state with 2.09 people per dwelling. Most of these people live in single-family dwellings, while 47 percent reside in multi-family units. When compared to the area, Walnut Creek homes are surprisingly affordable, with the average value being estimated near $485,000.