For statistical purposes, the United States Census Bureau has defined South Whittier as a census-designated place (CDP).

[4][5] According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 5.3 square miles (13.8 km2), over 99% of it land.

The racial makeup of South Whittier was 33,663 (58.9%) White (16.7% Non-Hispanic White),[27] 859 (1.5%) African American, 743 (1.3%) Native American, 2,305 (4.0%) Asian, 147 (0.3%) Pacific Islander, 17,085 (29.9%) from other races, and 2,354 (4.1%) from two or more races.

According to the 2010 United States Census, South Whittier had a median household income of $65,815, with 11.4% of the population living below the federal poverty line.

There were 15,008 housing units at an average density of 2,789.3 per square mile (1,077.0/km2).

The racial makeup of the CDP was 52.47% White, 1.47% African American, 1.23% Native American, 3.02% Asian, 0.26% Pacific Islander, 36.37% from other races, and 5.18% from two or more races.

In the California State Legislature, South Whittier is in the 32nd Senate District, represented by Republican Kelly Seyarto, and in the 57th Assembly District, represented by Democrat Sade Elhawary.

[30] In the United States House of Representatives, South Whittier is in California's 38th congressional district, represented by Democrat Linda Sánchez.

[31] The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) operates the Norwalk Station in Norwalk, serving South Whittier.