Sun Lakes, AZ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
13,924
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$67,853/yr
6.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,232
-0.1% year-over-year change

Sun Lakes population

How many people live in Sun Lakes

Sun Lakes is home to 13,924 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 42.6% of Sun Lakes locals are male, and 57.4% are female.

Total population
13,924
-1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
42.6%
5,930
Female
57.4%
7,994
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,930 42.6% -2.4%
Female 7,994 57.4% -0.1%
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 Sun Lakes is 74, with the population distributed as follows: about 0.2% are children under 15, then 0.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 1.5% of the population, while another 18.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 78.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
73.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
0.2%
15 to 24
0.6%
25 to 44
1.5%
45 to 64
18.8%
Over 65
78.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 27 0.2% 12.5%
15 to 24 91 0.6% 11.0%
25 to 44 208 1.5% -7.1%
45 to 64 2,614 18.8% -1.8%
Over 65 10,984 78.9% -0.9%
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 Sun Lakes, 91.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.8%
Non-citizens
3.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,741 91.5% -1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 669 4.8% -4.0%
Non-citizens 514 3.7% 8.7%
Racial breakdown
White
95%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 13,231 95%
Black or African American 153 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 28 0.2%
Asian 70 0.5%
Two or more races 417 3%
Other 25 0.2%

Households in Sun Lakes

A peek inside Sun Lakes households

Sun Lakes has 8,538 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 52.3% are families, while the remaining 47.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,538
-1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,075
Family households
4,463
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,075 47.7% 0.5%
Family households 4,463 52.3% -2.9%
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 Sun Lakes

The housing landscape of Sun Lakes

Sun Lakes's housing consists of 10,232 units, with 82.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.1% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 6.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,232
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,471 82.8%
1 unit, attached 420 4.1%
5 to 9 units 19 0.2%
10 to 19 units 39 0.4%
20 to 49 units 67 0.6%
50 or more units 456 4.5%
Mobile home 686 6.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 74 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
7
250.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sun Lakes

In Sun Lakes, the median construction year is 1991. About 0.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 22.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 65 0.6% 6.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 13 0.1% -7.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 22 0.2% -4.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 150 1.5% -8.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,484 14.5% 8.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,087 30.2% -9.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,829 27.6% 8.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,288 22.4% 2.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 287 2.8% -16.3%
Built in 2020 or later 7 0.1% 250.0%
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.

Sun Lakes occupancy rates

Out of the 8,538 occupied housing units in Sun Lakes, 88% are owner-occupied, while 12% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,538
-1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,027
Owner occupied
7,511
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,027 12% -5.1%
Owner occupied 7,511 88% -0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
16.6%
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.

Sun Lakes housing costs

Housing costs in Sun Lakes come to a median of $980 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,938.

Median housing costs per month
$980/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 Sun Lakes
$1,938/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 Sun Lakes

Sun Lakes education at a glance

About 21% of the population in Sun Lakes went to high school, while 28.4% pursued college studies. Another 10.5% earned an associate degree and 23.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 128 0.9% -7.2%
High school diploma 2,925 21% -3.9%
College diploma 3,940 28.4% 1.5%
Associate degree 1,460 10.5% 2.3%
Bachelor's degree 3,212 23.1% -1.9%
Graduate degree 2,232 16.1% -2.7%
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 Sun Lakes

How much people earn in Sun Lakes

The average annual household income in Sun Lakes was $89,344 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $67,853, reflecting a +6.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sun Lakes
$89,344/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sun Lakes
$67,853/year
6.8% year-over-year change

Sun Lakes income by age

In Sun Lakes, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,375. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $115,250 overall. Overall, 90.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $76,375 2.5%
45 - 64 $115,250 -2.6%
Over 65 $61,214 10.1%
Above poverty level
12,596
Below poverty level
1,301
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,596 90.6% -0.8%
Below poverty level 1,301 9.4% -6.3%

Average renter income in Sun Lakes

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sun Lakes, their median household income was $47,188 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 49.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$47,188
Rent-to-income ratio
49.3%
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 Sun Lakes

Workforce and job types in Sun Lakes

The job market in Sun Lakes is powered by 2,807 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 93% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.8% run their own businesses, 54% are employed by private companies, and 14.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,807
-0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
2,612
Blue collar
195
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,612 93% -1.9%
Blue collar 195 7% 28.3%
Employer type
Self employees
15.8%
Private companies
54%
Governmental workers
14.4%
Not for profit companies
15.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 443 15.8% -25.0%
Private companies 1,516 54% 10.8%
Governmental workers 404 14.4% -19.7%
Not for profit companies 444 15.8% 26.1%
Unemployment rate
4.5%
-1.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sun Lakes stands at 4.5%, 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 Sun Lakes

How people get around in Sun Lakes

In Sun Lakes, the average commute time is 20 minutes.

Commute time
20 min
-8.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,985 72% 0.3%
Bicycle 26 0.9% 4.0%
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 Sun Lakes demographics 

What is the total population of Sun Lakes?

Sun Lakes has a total population of 13,924 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 -1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sun Lakes?

The gender ratio in Sun Lakes is as follows:
  • 42.6% males (5,930 residents)
  • 57.4% females (7,994 residents)

What is the median age in Sun Lakes?

The median age in Sun Lakes is 73.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sun Lakes?

The age distribution in Sun Lakes is as follows:
  • Under 15: 0.2% (27 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 0.6% (91 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 1.5% (208 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.8% (2,614 residents)
  • Over 65: 78.9% (10,984 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sun Lakes?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sun Lakes is as follows:
  • White: 95% (13,231 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (153 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (28 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (70 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3% (417 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (25 residents)

What percentage of the population in Sun Lakes are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.5% of the population in Sun Lakes.

How many housing units are there in Sun Lakes?

There are 10,232 housing units in Sun Lakes, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Sun Lakes and what is the average household size?

Sun Lakes has a total of 8,538 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sun Lakes?

Sun Lakes has a median household income of $67,853, representing a +6.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Sun Lakes?

The employment rate is 95.5% in Sun Lakes, with a workforce of 2,807 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 93% (2,612 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 7% (195 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.8% (443 residents)
  • Private companies: 54% (1,516 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.4% (404 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 15.8% (444 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