Prunedale is an unincorporated community located in Monterey County, California, in the United States. It is situated at an elevation of 92 feet (28 meters) and lies approximately 8 miles (13 kilometers) north of Salinas.
For statistical purposes, the United States Census Bureau defines Prunedale as a census-designated place (CDP). According to the 2020 census, the community had a population of 18,885, an increase from 17,560 recorded in 2010. Historically, plum trees were cultivated in the area during its early founding days, though they eventually died due to inadequate fertilizer and irrigation.