San Francisco Earthquake of 1906: Census Facts

Comparing 1906 to more recent times

1.5 million
The population of California at the time of the 1900 census. At that time, California was the nation's 21st most populous state.

36.1 million
Estimated population of California on July 1, 2005, making it our most populous state.

342,782
The population of San Francisco at the time of the 1900 Census, making the city the most populous in California and ninth most populous city nationwide.

744,230
As of July 1, 2004, the estimated San Francisco population. At that time, San Francisco was only the fourth most populous city in the state and the 14th most populous city nationwide.

53,323
In 1900, the number of dwellings in San Francisco.

353,930
In 2004, the number of housing units in San Francisco.

95%
In 1900, the percentage of San Francisco's white residents. At that time, about 5% were Asian or Pacific islander, and less than 1% were black.

58%
On July 1, 2004, the percentage of San Francisco's white population. Thirty-four percent were Asian, 14% Hispanic (of any race), and 8% black.

34%
In 1900, the percentage of San Francisco's foreign-born population. This population totaled 116,885, of whom about 35,000 were from Germany.

37%
In 2004, the percentage of San Francisco's foreign-born population (excludes those in group quarters). This population totaled 270,165, of whom about 92,000 were from China.

304
In 1900, the number of farms in San Francisco. These farms were spread across 8,219 acres.

8
In 2002, the number of farms in San Francisco. Farm acreage was not published, thus avoiding disclosure of data pertaining to individual farms.

4,002
In 1900, the number of manufacturing establishments in San Francisco.

883
In 2003, the number of manufacturing establishments in San Francisco.