Fort Defiance, AZ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,351
-7.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,045/yr
-0.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,229
3.6% year-over-year change

Fort Defiance population

How many people live in Fort Defiance

Fort Defiance is home to 3,351 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 43.9% of Fort Defiance locals are male, and 56.1% are female.

Total population
3,351
-7.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
43.9%
1,470
Female
56.1%
1,881
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,470 43.9% -9.8%
Female 1,881 56.1% -5.2%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Fort Defiance is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.8% are children under 15, then 23.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 21.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.8%
15 to 24
23.9%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
21.2%
Over 65
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 595 17.8% -18.3%
15 to 24 800 23.9% 6.1%
25 to 44 810 24.2% -16.0%
45 to 64 712 21.2% -1.2%
Over 65 434 13% -2.9%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Fort Defiance, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 4% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 1.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,247 96.9% -8.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 47 1.4% -17.5%
Non-citizens 57 1.7% 418.2%
Racial breakdown
White
4%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
85.4%
Asian
1.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.8%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 134 4%
Black or African American 22 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,861 85.4%
Asian 63 1.9%
Two or more races 263 7.8%
Other 8 0.2%

Households in Fort Defiance

A peek inside Fort Defiance households

Fort Defiance has 1,017 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.7% are families, while the remaining 34.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,017
3.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
349
Family households
668
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 349 34.3% 13.3%
Family households 668 65.7% -1.2%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Fort Defiance

The housing landscape of Fort Defiance

Fort Defiance's housing consists of 1,229 units, with 70.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 18.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,229
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 869 70.7%
2 units 66 5.4%
3 or 4 units 46 3.7%
5 to 9 units 20 1.6%
Mobile home 228 18.6%
Homes built since 2020
14
0.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fort Defiance

In Fort Defiance, the median construction year is 1980. About 4.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 18.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 50 4.1% 257.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 26 2.1% N/A
Built between 1950 and 1959 24 2% -27.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 147 12% 8.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 370 30.1% -8.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 225 18.3% -1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 120 9.8% -25.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 227 18.5% 21.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 26 2.1% 136.4%
Built in 2020 or later 14 1.1% 0.0%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Fort Defiance occupancy rates

Out of the 1,017 occupied housing units in Fort Defiance, 51.8% are owner-occupied, while 48.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,017
3.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
490
Owner occupied
527
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 490 48.2% 2.7%
Owner occupied 527 51.8% 3.9%
Unoccupied housing units
17.2%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Fort Defiance housing costs

Housing costs in Fort Defiance come to a median of $388 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $856.

Median housing costs per month
$388/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Fort Defiance
$856/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Fort Defiance

Fort Defiance education at a glance

About 40.9% of the population in Fort Defiance went to high school, while 32.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 9.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 59 2.3% 40.5%
High school diploma 1,041 40.9% -6.0%
College diploma 837 32.9% -13.2%
Associate degree 193 7.6% 10.9%
Bachelor's degree 247 9.7% -5.0%
Graduate degree 170 6.7% 58.9%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Fort Defiance

How much people earn in Fort Defiance

The average annual household income in Fort Defiance was $66,014 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,045, reflecting a -0.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fort Defiance
$66,014/year
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fort Defiance
$56,045/year
-0.4% year-over-year change

Fort Defiance income by age

In Fort Defiance, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $55,929. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,250 overall. Overall, 86.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $55,929 4.4%
45 - 64 $51,250 -5.6%
Over 65 $59,706 3.7%
Above poverty level
2,855
Below poverty level
446
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,855 86.5% -3.2%
Below poverty level 446 13.5% -27.1%

Average renter income in Fort Defiance

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fort Defiance, their median household income was $51,250 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 20%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$51,250
Rent-to-income ratio
20%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Fort Defiance

Workforce and job types in Fort Defiance

The job market in Fort Defiance is powered by 1,340 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 0.9% run their own businesses, 36.6% are employed by private companies, and 59.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,340
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
1,057
Blue collar
283
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,057 78.9% -2.3%
Blue collar 283 21.1% 8.0%
Employer type
Self employees
0.9%
Private companies
36.6%
Governmental workers
59.6%
Not for profit companies
3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 12 0.9% -69.2%
Private companies 490 36.6% -7.2%
Governmental workers 798 59.6% 4.0%
Not for profit companies 40 3% 300.0%
Unemployment rate
11.2%
7.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fort Defiance stands at 11.2%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Fort Defiance

How people get around in Fort Defiance

Commuting methods vary: 89.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,203 89.8% -2.4%
Walk 97 7.2% 40.6%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about Fort Defiance demographics 

What is the total population of Fort Defiance?

Fort Defiance has a total population of 3,351 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -7.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fort Defiance?

The gender ratio in Fort Defiance is as follows:
  • 43.9% males (1,470 residents)
  • 56.1% females (1,881 residents)

What is the median age in Fort Defiance?

The median age in Fort Defiance is 32.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fort Defiance?

The age distribution in Fort Defiance is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.8% (595 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 23.9% (800 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (810 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.2% (712 residents)
  • Over 65: 13% (434 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fort Defiance?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fort Defiance is as follows:
  • White: 4% (134 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (22 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 85.4% (2,861 residents)
  • Asian: 1.9% (63 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.8% (263 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (8 residents)

What percentage of the population in Fort Defiance are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Fort Defiance.

How many housing units are there in Fort Defiance?

There are 1,229 housing units in Fort Defiance, reflecting a +3.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Fort Defiance and what is the average household size?

Fort Defiance has a total of 1,017 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fort Defiance?

Fort Defiance has a median household income of $56,045, representing a -0.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Fort Defiance?

The employment rate is 88.8% in Fort Defiance, with a workforce of 1,340 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.9% (1,057 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.1% (283 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 0.9% (12 residents)
  • Private companies: 36.6% (490 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 59.6% (798 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3% (40 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025