DeFuniak Springs, Walton County, FL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,123
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,313/yr
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,456
2.8% year-over-year change

Defuniak Springs population

How many people live in Defuniak Springs

Defuniak Springs is home to 10,123 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Defuniak Springs locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
10,123
3.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
5,072
Female
49.9%
5,051
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,072 50.1% 0.9%
Female 5,051 49.9% 5.4%
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 Defuniak Springs is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.5% are children under 15, then 10.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.6% of the population, while another 22.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.5%
15 to 24
10.7%
25 to 44
27.6%
45 to 64
22.7%
Over 65
17.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,177 21.5% 6.5%
15 to 24 1,086 10.7% 4.3%
25 to 44 2,794 27.6% 6.1%
45 to 64 2,299 22.7% -0.9%
Over 65 1,767 17.5% -0.7%
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 Defuniak Springs, 91.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 78.4% of locals are Caucasian, 7.6% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.5%
Non-citizens
3.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,299 91.8% 2.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 460 4.5% 5.3%
Non-citizens 365 3.6% 5.5%
Racial breakdown
White
78.4%
Black or African American
7.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.9%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.3%
Other
3.5%
Value Percent
White 7,937 78.4%
Black or African American 768 7.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 196 1.9%
Asian 30 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0%
Two or more races 838 8.3%
Other 350 3.5%

Households in Defuniak Springs

A peek inside Defuniak Springs households

Defuniak Springs has 3,921 households, with an average of 1 members in each. Of these, 70.8% are families, while the remaining 29.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,921
3.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
1
Non-family households
1,147
Family households
2,774
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,147 29.2% -5.4%
Family households 2,774 70.8% 7.5%
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 Defuniak Springs

The housing landscape of Defuniak Springs

Defuniak Springs's housing consists of 4,456 units, with 64.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.7% 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 27.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,456
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,873 64.5%
1 unit, attached 32 0.7%
2 units 73 1.6%
3 or 4 units 71 1.6%
5 to 9 units 41 0.9%
10 to 19 units 4 0.1%
20 to 49 units 27 0.6%
50 or more units 33 0.7%
Mobile home 1,230 27.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 71 1.6%
Homes built since 2020
334
108.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Defuniak Springs

In Defuniak Springs, the median construction year is 1994. About 4.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 7.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 190 4.3% 9.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 111 2.5% 3.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 141 3.2% -36.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 293 6.6% 6.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 406 9.1% -17.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 603 13.5% 0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 767 17.2% 0.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 919 20.6% 10.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 691 15.5% -1.9%
Built in 2020 or later 334 7.5% 108.8%
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.

Defuniak Springs occupancy rates

Out of the 3,921 occupied housing units in Defuniak Springs, 77.3% are owner-occupied, while 22.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,921
3.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
889
Owner occupied
3,032
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 889 22.7% 2.7%
Owner occupied 3,032 77.3% 3.6%
Unoccupied housing units
12.0%
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.

Defuniak Springs housing costs

Housing costs in Defuniak Springs come to a median of $887 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,064.

Median housing costs per month
$887/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 Defuniak Springs
$1,064/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 Defuniak Springs

Defuniak Springs education at a glance

About 40.8% of the population in Defuniak Springs went to high school, while 21.2% pursued college studies. Another 12.2% earned an associate degree and 15.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 238 3.1% -11.2%
High school diploma 3,108 40.8% -3.2%
College diploma 1,613 21.2% 4.6%
Associate degree 930 12.2% 17.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,212 15.9% 4.8%
Graduate degree 523 6.9% 8.3%
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 Defuniak Springs

How much people earn in Defuniak Springs

The average annual household income in Defuniak Springs was $34,485 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 $65,313, reflecting a +3.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Defuniak Springs
$34,485/year
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Defuniak Springs
$65,313/year
3.6% year-over-year change

Defuniak Springs income by age

In Defuniak Springs, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,081. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,143 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $72,101, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $57,538 in earnings. Overall, 84.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $72,101 6.7%
25 - 44 $75,081 6.1%
45 - 64 $67,143 -1.2%
Over 65 $57,538 11.0%
Above poverty level
8,136
Below poverty level
1,484
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,136 84.6% 2.0%
Below poverty level 1,484 15.4% 6.8%

Average renter income in Defuniak Springs

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Defuniak Springs, their median household income was $35,972 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$35,972
Rent-to-income ratio
35.5%
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 Defuniak Springs

Workforce and job types in Defuniak Springs

The job market in Defuniak Springs is powered by 4,311 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 17.2% run their own businesses, 57.3% are employed by private companies, and 17.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,311
3.2% year-over-year change
White collar
3,244
Blue collar
1,067
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,244 75.2% 4.8%
Blue collar 1,067 24.8% -1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
17.2%
Private companies
57.3%
Governmental workers
17.7%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 740 17.2% -1.1%
Private companies 2,471 57.3% 4.2%
Governmental workers 763 17.7% -3.8%
Not for profit companies 338 7.8% 27.6%
Unemployment rate
5.9%
-1.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Defuniak Springs stands at 5.9%, 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 Defuniak Springs

How people get around in Defuniak Springs

In Defuniak Springs, the average commute time is 7 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 98.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
7 min
-75.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,731 98.2% 6.0%
Motorcycle 8 0.2% 166.7%
Bicycle 21 0.6% N/A
Walk 40 1% -43.7%
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 Defuniak Springs demographics 

What is the total population of Defuniak Springs?

Defuniak Springs has a total population of 10,123 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 +3.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Defuniak Springs?

The gender ratio in Defuniak Springs is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (5,072 residents)
  • 49.9% females (5,051 residents)

What is the median age in Defuniak Springs?

The median age in Defuniak Springs is 37.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Defuniak Springs?

The age distribution in Defuniak Springs is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.5% (2,177 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.7% (1,086 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.6% (2,794 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.7% (2,299 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.5% (1,767 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Defuniak Springs?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Defuniak Springs is as follows:
  • White: 78.4% (7,937 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.6% (768 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.9% (196 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (30 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.3% (838 residents)
  • Other: 3.5% (350 residents)

What percentage of the population in Defuniak Springs are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.8% of the population in Defuniak Springs.

How many housing units are there in Defuniak Springs?

There are 4,456 housing units in Defuniak Springs, reflecting a +2.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Defuniak Springs and what is the average household size?

Defuniak Springs has a total of 3,921 households, with an average of 1 people in each.

What is the median household income in Defuniak Springs?

Defuniak Springs has a median household income of $65,313, 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 Defuniak Springs?

The employment rate is 94.1% in Defuniak Springs, with a workforce of 4,311 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.2% (3,244 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.8% (1,067 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 17.2% (740 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.3% (2,471 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.7% (763 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (338 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