The Quick Answer: Cabo’s Population Right Now
How many people live in Cabo San Lucas? The latest numbers show around 116,000 people living in Cabo San Lucas itself, and roughly 351,000 across the greater Los Cabos area. That includes both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, plus the stretch of coast between them known as the Tourist Corridor. Year-round residents include locals, expats, and seasonal workers. It’s not a massive city, but it’s growing fast.
Why This Matters: Stories from the Ground
We once helped a couple from Portland move into a condo near El Tezal. They thought they were settling into a quiet beach town. Six months later, they found themselves caught in morning traffic behind delivery trucks and school buses. That’s Cabo now—laid-back lifestyle, but it’s no sleepy village. Knowing the population size helps you understand what to expect, especially if you're looking into Cabo real estate.
How Many People Live in Cabo San Lucas?
The population of Cabo San Lucas has grown steadily for the past two decades. INEGI (Mexico’s statistics agency) reports over 116,000 people in Cabo San Lucas as of the last census. Los Cabos overall, which includes San José del Cabo, has over 350,000 residents and counting. It’s one of the fastest-growing regions in Baja California Sur.
How Fast Is Cabo Growing?
Population Growth: 2000 to 2025
Back in 2000, Cabo San Lucas had just under 30,000 residents. By 2010, that number doubled. Since then, it's nearly quadrupled. Growth hasn’t slowed. Between tourism, foreign buyers, and locals moving in for work, Cabo has turned into a mid-sized city in record time.
What’s Driving the Boom?
Tourism is the big driver. Hotels, vacation rentals, and luxury developments bring jobs and foreign money. Digital nomads, retirees, and investors keep the baja mexico real estate market hot. People come for the lifestyle, the weather, and the ocean. And they stay for the community.
Cabo San Lucas vs. Los Cabos: What’s the Difference?
Cabo San Lucas is just one city within the larger area of Los Cabos. Los Cabos includes two cities—Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo—plus the Tourist Corridor. If you're flying in, you're landing at Cabo San Lucas airport (actually located near San José). This distinction matters if you're house-hunting, choosing schools, or commuting.
Where Do People Live? Popular Neighborhoods
Marina and Downtown
This is the busiest part of Cabo. Locals and expats live in apartments and condos steps from restaurants, shops, and Medano Beach. Expect noise, tourists, and late-night energy.
El Tezal and Tourist Corridor
El Tezal offers suburban-style homes, newer condos, and space. It’s a 5–10 minute drive to downtown. The Corridor runs east along the coast, with high-end resorts and ocean-view properties.
Pedregal
An exclusive gated community built into the hillside. Think ocean views, infinity pools, and tight security. It’s popular with investors and second-home buyers.
Querencia
Querencia sits in the Corridor and centers around a private golf course. Custom estates, panoramic views, and a quiet atmosphere make it feel tucked away.
Palmilla
High-end homes with access to one of the few swimmable beaches in the area. It’s near the One&Only Palmilla resort and a favorite for buyers who want resort-style living.
Puerto Los Cabos
Located on the San José del Cabo side, this planned community has a marina, golf courses, and private beach clubs. It’s one of the most developed luxury areas on the east side of Los Cabos.
What’s Life Like in Cabo San Lucas?
Events, Jobs, and Local Culture
There’s something happening every weekend—music festivals, fishing tournaments, food events, and local parades. The job market mostly revolves around tourism and construction. You’ll hear English a lot, but Spanish is still the everyday language in neighborhoods outside the tourist zones.
Real Estate and Housing Options
You’ll find everything from beachfront condos to family homes and luxury estates. The Cabo real estate market stays active year-round. If you’re considering buying, learn about what is fideicomiso—the legal trust that lets foreigners own property in Mexico.
Real Estate, Rentals, and More
At Baja Properties, we help clients buy, sell, and rent homes across Cabo and San José. We also offer relocation support, property management, and market advice. Whether you're investing or moving, we’ve seen it all.
- Long-term and short-term rentals
- Full-service property management
- Legal and tax referrals
- Relocation guidance
FAQ: How Many People Live in Cabo San Lucas?
How many people live in Cabo San Lucas?
Around 116,000 residents in Cabo San Lucas, and over 351,000 in the greater Los Cabos region.
Is Cabo San Lucas part of Los Cabos?
Yes. Los Cabos includes Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, and the Tourist Corridor in between.
Is Cabo safe for families and long-term living?
Yes. Many areas feel safe and welcoming. For more info, see is Cabo safe? and is San Jose del Cabo safe?
Are there schools and hospitals in Cabo?
Yes, several international schools and private clinics. Healthcare is modern and accessible.
What’s traffic like in Cabo?
Traffic can get heavy in high season, especially near downtown. For tips, see our guide to driving in Cabo San Lucas
Are new homes being built?
Yes, construction is booming, especially in El Tezal and along the Corridor.
Can I own property as a foreigner?
Yes, using a fideicomiso. Learn more here: what is fideicomiso
Is Cabo a good place to retire?
Absolutely. Many expats move here for the climate, healthcare, and pace of life.
How is the expat community?
Strong and active. You’ll find social groups, clubs, and meetups all year.