La Plata County, CO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
56,331
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$86,056/yr
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
28,990
1.3% year-over-year change

LA Plata County population

How many people live in LA Plata County

LA Plata County is home to 56,331 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of LA Plata County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
56,331
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
28,449
Female
49.5%
27,882
Value Percent YoY change
Male 28,449 50.5% 0.2%
Female 27,882 49.5% 0.7%
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 LA Plata County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.1% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.8% of the population, while another 26.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.1%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
25.8%
45 to 64
26.8%
Over 65
20.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,965 14.1% -2.2%
15 to 24 7,019 12.5% -1.0%
25 to 44 14,538 25.8% -0.2%
45 to 64 15,081 26.8% -0.1%
Over 65 11,728 20.8% 4.8%
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 LA Plata County, 95.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 81.5% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. Another 5% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.1%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 53,769 95.4% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,745 3.1% 17.8%
Non-citizens 817 1.4% 25.9%
Racial breakdown
White
81.5%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
5%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
9.3%
Other
2.9%
Value Percent
White 45,897 81.5%
Black or African American 140 0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,836 5%
Asian 459 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 115 0.2%
Two or more races 5,249 9.3%
Other 1,635 2.9%

Households in LA Plata County

A peek inside LA Plata County households

LA Plata County has 24,378 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.7% are families, while the remaining 38.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
24,378
5.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,333
Family households
15,045
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,333 38.3% 4.7%
Family households 15,045 61.7% 5.3%
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 LA Plata County

The housing landscape of LA Plata County

LA Plata County's housing consists of 28,990 units, with 62.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.2% 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 12.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
28,990
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 18,132 62.6%
1 unit, attached 1,788 6.2%
2 units 609 2.1%
3 or 4 units 1,445 5%
5 to 9 units 677 2.3%
10 to 19 units 620 2.1%
20 to 49 units 894 3.1%
50 or more units 1,015 3.5%
Mobile home 3,690 12.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 120 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
609
25.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in LA Plata County

In LA Plata County, the median construction year is 1993. About 6.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,937 6.7% -1.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 497 1.7% -26.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,489 5.1% -7.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,206 4.2% -9.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,077 14.1% 3.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,744 12.9% -6.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,493 19% -0.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,110 21.1% 6.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,828 13.2% 15.3%
Built in 2020 or later 609 2.1% 25.1%
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.

LA Plata County occupancy rates

Out of the 24,378 occupied housing units in LA Plata County, 70.9% are owner-occupied, while 29.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
24,378
5.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,086
Owner occupied
17,292
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,086 29.1% 5.2%
Owner occupied 17,292 70.9% 5.0%
Unoccupied housing units
15.9%
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.

LA Plata County housing costs

Housing costs in LA Plata County come to a median of $1,460 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,504.

Median housing costs per month
$1,460/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 LA Plata County
$1,504/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 LA Plata County

LA Plata County education at a glance

About 24.5% of the population in LA Plata County went to high school, while 21% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 28.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 459 1% 12.2%
High school diploma 11,365 24.5% -5.6%
College diploma 9,734 21% -3.9%
Associate degree 3,842 8.3% 8.9%
Bachelor's degree 13,096 28.2% 3.2%
Graduate degree 7,968 17.2% 10.1%
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 LA Plata County

How much people earn in LA Plata County

The average annual household income in LA Plata County was $113,780 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $86,056, reflecting a +0.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in LA Plata County
$113,780/year
6.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in LA Plata County
$86,056/year
0.9% year-over-year change

LA Plata County income by age

In LA Plata County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,891. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $101,600 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,630, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $69,214 in earnings. Overall, 88.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,630 16.5%
25 - 44 $90,891 0.1%
45 - 64 $101,600 2.2%
Over 65 $69,214 2.8%
Above poverty level
47,658
Below poverty level
6,336
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 47,658 88.3% 1.2%
Below poverty level 6,336 11.7% -5.5%

Employment in LA Plata County

Workforce and job types in LA Plata County

The job market in LA Plata County is powered by 29,272 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 18.8% run their own businesses, 53.8% are employed by private companies, and 17.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
29,272
0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
24,054
Blue collar
5,218
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 24,054 82.2% 1.8%
Blue collar 5,218 17.8% -3.8%
Employer type
Self employees
18.8%
Private companies
53.8%
Governmental workers
17.2%
Not for profit companies
10.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,512 18.8% -2.9%
Private companies 15,752 53.8% -0.3%
Governmental workers 5,043 17.2% 0.2%
Not for profit companies 2,965 10.1% 16.4%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
23.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in LA Plata County stands at 3.8%, 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 LA Plata County

How people get around in LA Plata County

Commuting methods vary: 73.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.5% 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 21,375 73.9% 0.6%
Bus or trolleybus 40 0.1% -65.5%
Railroad 14 0% 27.3%
Motorcycle 19 0.1% 18.8%
Bicycle 670 2.3% 5.7%
Walk 1,295 4.5% 3.9%
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.

What is the median and average household income in LA Plata County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
81137 5,571 2,231 $63,860 $91,143
81301 29,774 13,643 $83,943 $112,149
81303 10,236 3,974 $88,103 $121,216
81326 2,621 1,147 $80,089 $121,027
81328 4,487 2,095 $72,522 $91,433
81122 8,838 3,670 $93,714 $121,509

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FAQs about LA Plata County demographics 

What is the total population of LA Plata County?

LA Plata County has a total population of 56,331 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in LA Plata County?

The gender ratio in LA Plata County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (28,449 residents)
  • 49.5% females (27,882 residents)

What is the median age in LA Plata County?

The median age in LA Plata County is 43.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in LA Plata County?

The age distribution in LA Plata County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.1% (7,965 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (7,019 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.8% (14,538 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.8% (15,081 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.8% (11,728 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of LA Plata County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of LA Plata County is as follows:
  • White: 81.5% (45,897 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (140 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 5% (2,836 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (459 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (115 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.3% (5,249 residents)
  • Other: 2.9% (1,635 residents)

What percentage of the population in LA Plata County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.4% of the population in LA Plata County.

How many housing units are there in LA Plata County?

There are 28,990 housing units in LA Plata County, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in LA Plata County and what is the average household size?

LA Plata County has a total of 24,378 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in LA Plata County?

LA Plata County has a median household income of $86,056, representing a +0.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for LA Plata County?

The employment rate is 96.2% in LA Plata County, with a workforce of 29,272 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.2% (24,054 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.8% (5,218 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 18.8% (5,512 residents)
  • Private companies: 53.8% (15,752 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.2% (5,043 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.1% (2,965 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