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Arcata
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Arcata

Welcome to Arcata

Arcata is a coastal city in northern Humboldt County, set between Humboldt Bay and the redwood forests of California’s North Coast. With a population of just under 20,000 residents, Arcata is known for its progressive spirit, strong environmental ethic, and deep connection to both nature and academia.
 
Founded in 1850 as Union Town, Arcata developed early as a port and supply center for logging, ranching, and mining activity inland. Over time, its identity shifted, particularly with the establishment of Humboldt State Normal School in 1913, now Cal Poly Humboldt. The university has played a defining role ever since, shaping the city’s culture, economy, and youthful energy.
 
Arcata Plaza sits at the heart of town and functions as a true civic gathering place. It’s home to weekly farmers markets, community events, live music, and local activism, all framed by historic buildings and a vibrant downtown filled with independent shops, bookstores, cafés, and restaurants. The city’s commitment to sustainability is visible everywhere, from bike-friendly streets to long-standing bans on chain restaurants in the core commercial area.
 
Outdoor access is immediate and exceptional. Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary, redwood parks, beaches, and miles of trails are all minutes away. Housing ranges from historic Victorians to student apartments and tucked-away residential neighborhoods. With its blend of intellectual life, natural beauty, and community-minded values, Arcata feels engaged, thoughtful, and distinctly its own.
 
[Photo: Jss3255, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0]
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Overview for Arcata, CA

21,684 people live in Arcata, where the median age is 29.2 and the average individual income is $31,699. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

21,684

Total Population

29.2 years

Median Age

Low

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$31,699

Average individual Income

Demographics and Employment Data for Arcata, CA

Arcata has 8,860 households, with an average household size of 2.26. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Arcata do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 21,684 people call Arcata home. The population density is 359.14 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

21,684

Total Population

Low

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

29.2

Median Age

49.25 / 50.75%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
8,860

Total Households

2.26

Average Household Size

$31,699

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Arcata, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Arcata. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

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