Daly City is a city in San Mateo County, California, located immediately south of San Francisco. With a population of 106,780 as of 2020, Daly City is one of the largest cities in San Mateo County.
Population and Demographics
According to the 2020 census, Daly City has a population of 106,780 people. This makes it the 13th largest city in the San Francisco Bay Area. The population density is 13,047 people per square mile.
Daly City is an extremely ethnically diverse city. As of the 2020 census, the racial makeup of Daly City was:
- 33.6% Asian
- 32.9% White
- 19.4% Hispanic or Latino
- 5.8% Black or African American
- 4.9% Two or More Races
- 3.3% Other Races
Daly City has large Asian American and Filipino American populations. Nearly one-third of Daly City’s population is of Filipino descent. There are also significant populations of Chinese, Indian, Burmese, Vietnamese, and other Asian Americans.
History of Daly City
The area that is now Daly City was originally inhabited by the Ohlone people for thousands of years. In 1769, the Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portolà discovered the San Francisco Bay Area, including the modern day location of Daly City.
In the 1800s, large portions of the land that is now Daly City were under the control of Mission Dolores and Mission San Francisco de Asís. Following Mexico’s independence from Spain, the area came under control of the Mexican government.
Daly City itself was founded and developed in the early 20th century. The city was named after businessman John Daly, who purchased Rancho Buri Buri in the 1860s. The city incorporated in 1911 and continued to grow as a suburb over the next several decades.
Notable historic landmarks in Daly City include the Colma Gateway Monument, the Daly City History Museum (in the historic City Hall building), and several sites along the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail.
Economy and Major Employers
Historically, Daly City’s economy relied heavily on agriculture and floriculture. In the mid-20th century it became an important residential community for San Francisco, with many residents commuting into The City for work.
Today, Daly City has a diverse economy with healthcare, retail, technology, finance, insurance, real estate, and education among the top industries. Some of the major employers in Daly City include:
- Kaiser Permanente (healthcare)
- Jefferson Union High School District (education)
- Police Department (law enforcement)
- Wells Fargo (finance)
Several large shopping centers provide major retail and dining options. These include the Westlake Shopping Center, Serramonte Center, and Vista Grande.
Landmarks and Attractions
Despite its small geographic size of just 4.4 square miles, Daly City is home to several notable attractions and landmarks.
The Mussel Rock park offers hiking trails with beautiful ocean views. The Gellert Park and John D. Daly Park provide green space and recreational facilities for residents. The Daly City History Museum chronicles the city’s past.
Popular events held annually in Daly City include the Filipino Cultural Day, Daly City Summerfest, and several Lunar New Year celebrations.
Sports
Daly City is home to the San Francisco Giants’ San Jose Giants minor league baseball team. Their home stadium is Excite Ballpark located right on the border between Daly City and San Jose.
Many youth and adult recreational sports leagues in Daly City play at the various public parks. There are also private athletic clubs and martial arts studios throughout the city.
You can follow the latest news and events happening in Daly City by liking the City of Daly City Facebook page.