Rio Grande County, CO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
11,321
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$64,411/yr
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,616
0.6% year-over-year change

Rio Grande County population

How many people live in Rio Grande County

Rio Grande County is home to 11,321 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Rio Grande County locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
11,321
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
5,754
Female
49.2%
5,567
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,754 50.8% -0.2%
Female 5,567 49.2% -1.1%
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 Rio Grande County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.4% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.7% of the population, while another 23.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.4%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
25.7%
45 to 64
23.9%
Over 65
22.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,857 16.4% -1.9%
15 to 24 1,274 11.2% 4.4%
25 to 44 2,911 25.7% -2.2%
45 to 64 2,701 23.9% -3.1%
Over 65 2,578 22.8% 2.5%
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 Rio Grande County, 95.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 73% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 16.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
3.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,841 95.8% 1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 121 1.1% -33.1%
Non-citizens 359 3.2% -24.7%
Racial breakdown
White
73%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.5%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
16.1%
Other
6.8%
Value Percent
White 8,268 73%
Black or African American 63 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 395 3.5%
Asian 11 0.1%
Two or more races 1,818 16.1%
Other 766 6.8%

Households in Rio Grande County

A peek inside Rio Grande County households

Rio Grande County has 5,133 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.8% are families, while the remaining 35.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,133
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,804
Family households
3,329
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,804 35.2% 11.3%
Family households 3,329 64.8% -2.4%
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 Rio Grande County

The housing landscape of Rio Grande County

Rio Grande County's housing consists of 6,616 units, with 75.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.4% 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 11.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,616
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,996 75.5%
1 unit, attached 24 0.4%
2 units 165 2.5%
3 or 4 units 207 3.1%
5 to 9 units 229 3.5%
10 to 19 units 52 0.8%
20 to 49 units 171 2.6%
50 or more units 6 0.1%
Mobile home 760 11.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
69
130.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rio Grande County

In Rio Grande County, the median construction year is 1978. About 18.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,199 18.1% -1.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 384 5.8% 71.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 469 7.1% -2.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 566 8.6% -0.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 847 12.8% 19.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,079 16.3% -4.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 873 13.2% -15.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 827 12.5% 5.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 303 4.6% -22.5%
Built in 2020 or later 69 1% 130.0%
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.

Rio Grande County occupancy rates

Out of the 5,133 occupied housing units in Rio Grande County, 67.1% are owner-occupied, while 32.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 22.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,133
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,689
Owner occupied
3,444
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,689 32.9% 6.2%
Owner occupied 3,444 67.1% 0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
22.4%
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.

Rio Grande County housing costs

Housing costs in Rio Grande County come to a median of $992 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $945.

Median housing costs per month
$992/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 Rio Grande County
$945/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 Rio Grande County

Rio Grande County education at a glance

About 32.6% of the population in Rio Grande County went to high school, while 24% pursued college studies. Another 6.7% earned an associate degree and 20.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 435 4.8% -9.9%
High school diploma 2,951 32.6% -1.8%
College diploma 2,170 24% -2.6%
Associate degree 607 6.7% -19.9%
Bachelor's degree 1,884 20.8% 4.3%
Graduate degree 993 11% 25.5%
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 Rio Grande County

How much people earn in Rio Grande County

The average annual household income in Rio Grande County was $85,497 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $64,411, reflecting a +3.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rio Grande County
$85,497/year
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rio Grande County
$64,411/year
3.6% year-over-year change

Rio Grande County income by age

In Rio Grande County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,573. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $84,929 overall. Overall, 82% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $75,573 -8.6%
45 - 64 $84,929 -6.6%
Over 65 $50,013 4.3%
Above poverty level
8,978
Below poverty level
1,964
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,978 82% -4.5%
Below poverty level 1,964 18% 22.3%

Employment in Rio Grande County

Workforce and job types in Rio Grande County

The job market in Rio Grande County is powered by 5,180 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.5% run their own businesses, 53.4% are employed by private companies, and 21% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,180
-0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
4,031
Blue collar
1,149
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,031 77.8% 0.9%
Blue collar 1,149 22.2% -5.3%
Employer type
Self employees
15.5%
Private companies
53.4%
Governmental workers
21%
Not for profit companies
10.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 803 15.5% -2.2%
Private companies 2,767 53.4% -2.7%
Governmental workers 1,087 21% 12.1%
Not for profit companies 523 10.1% -8.6%
Unemployment rate
10.2%
29.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rio Grande County stands at 10.2%, 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 Rio Grande County

How people get around in Rio Grande County

Commuting methods vary: 86.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% 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 4,280 86.2% -2.6%
Bus or trolleybus 12 0.2% -61.3%
Bicycle 24 0.5% 26.3%
Walk 158 3.2% 43.6%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Rio Grande County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
81132 3,252 1,580 $55,000 $83,235
81144 6,543 2,779 $64,662 $83,750
81154 1,363 704 $77,177 $95,781
81125 3,362 1,580 $56,250 $69,130

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FAQs about Rio Grande County demographics 

What is the total population of Rio Grande County?

Rio Grande County has a total population of 11,321 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Rio Grande County?

The gender ratio in Rio Grande County is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (5,754 residents)
  • 49.2% females (5,567 residents)

What is the median age in Rio Grande County?

The median age in Rio Grande County is 41.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Rio Grande County?

The age distribution in Rio Grande County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.4% (1,857 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (1,274 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.7% (2,911 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.9% (2,701 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.8% (2,578 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rio Grande County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rio Grande County is as follows:
  • White: 73% (8,268 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (63 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.5% (395 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (11 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.1% (1,818 residents)
  • Other: 6.8% (766 residents)

What percentage of the population in Rio Grande County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.8% of the population in Rio Grande County.

How many housing units are there in Rio Grande County?

There are 6,616 housing units in Rio Grande County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Rio Grande County and what is the average household size?

Rio Grande County has a total of 5,133 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rio Grande County?

Rio Grande County has a median household income of $64,411, representing a +3.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Rio Grande County?

The employment rate is 89.8% in Rio Grande County, with a workforce of 5,180 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.8% (4,031 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.2% (1,149 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.5% (803 residents)
  • Private companies: 53.4% (2,767 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21% (1,087 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.1% (523 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