DeSoto County, FL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
35,386
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,417/yr
7.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,872
1.0% year-over-year change

Desoto County population

How many people live in Desoto County

Desoto County is home to 35,386 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.1% of Desoto County locals are male, and 44.9% are female.

Total population
35,386
1.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.1%
19,491
Female
44.9%
15,895
Value Percent YoY change
Male 19,491 55.1% 2.0%
Female 15,895 44.9% 1.8%
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 Desoto County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.5% are children under 15, then 11.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26% of the population, while another 24.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.5%
15 to 24
11.4%
25 to 44
26%
45 to 64
24.3%
Over 65
23.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,126 14.5% 2.6%
15 to 24 4,045 11.4% -2.0%
25 to 44 9,196 26% 1.0%
45 to 64 8,602 24.3% 4.5%
Over 65 8,417 23.8% 2.0%
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 Desoto County, 84.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 60.8% of locals are Caucasian, 12.5% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 10.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 15.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.6%
Non-citizens
8.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 29,980 84.7% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,330 6.6% 7.1%
Non-citizens 3,076 8.7% 10.1%
Racial breakdown
White
60.8%
Black or African American
12.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
15.8%
Other
10.4%
Value Percent
White 21,512 60.8%
Black or African American 4,409 12.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 157 0.4%
Asian 33 0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 27 0.1%
Two or more races 5,582 15.8%
Other 3,666 10.4%

Households in Desoto County

A peek inside Desoto County households

Desoto County has 12,824 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67.2% are families, while the remaining 32.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,824
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,202
Family households
8,622
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,202 32.8% 2.4%
Family households 8,622 67.2% 0.8%
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 Desoto County

The housing landscape of Desoto County

Desoto County's housing consists of 15,872 units, with 48.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.7% 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 31.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,872
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,733 48.7%
1 unit, attached 431 2.7%
2 units 799 5%
3 or 4 units 389 2.4%
5 to 9 units 681 4.3%
10 to 19 units 139 0.9%
20 to 49 units 122 0.8%
50 or more units 57 0.4%
Mobile home 5,041 31.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 480 3%
Homes built since 2020
340
141.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Desoto County

In Desoto County, the median construction year is 1990. About 3.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 24.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.4% 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 560 3.5% -8.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 211 1.3% -6.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,076 6.8% 13.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,156 7.3% 15.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,056 13% -14.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,825 17.8% -5.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,262 14.2% 0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,900 24.6% 6.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,486 9.4% -2.9%
Built in 2020 or later 340 2.1% 141.1%
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.

Desoto County occupancy rates

Out of the 12,824 occupied housing units in Desoto County, 72.5% are owner-occupied, while 27.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 19.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,824
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,524
Owner occupied
9,300
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,524 27.5% -3.0%
Owner occupied 9,300 72.5% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
19.2%
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.

Desoto County housing costs

Housing costs in Desoto County come to a median of $806 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $932.

Median housing costs per month
$806/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 Desoto County
$932/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 Desoto County

Desoto County education at a glance

About 52.1% of the population in Desoto County went to high school, while 19.5% pursued college studies. Another 7.4% earned an associate degree and 7.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,057 10.5% -5.8%
High school diploma 15,134 52.1% 0.7%
College diploma 5,672 19.5% 15.7%
Associate degree 2,148 7.4% -4.7%
Bachelor's degree 2,170 7.5% 4.1%
Graduate degree 856 3% -5.7%
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 Desoto County

How much people earn in Desoto County

The average annual household income in Desoto County was $65,542 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,417, reflecting a +7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Desoto County
$65,542/year
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Desoto County
$54,417/year
7.0% year-over-year change

Desoto County income by age

In Desoto County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,768. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $57,336 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,375, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,965 in earnings. Overall, 76% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,375 -3.3%
25 - 44 $62,768 9.1%
45 - 64 $57,336 7.0%
Over 65 $45,965 0.8%
Above poverty level
25,356
Below poverty level
8,020
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 25,356 76% 0.2%
Below poverty level 8,020 24% 6.2%

Employment in Desoto County

Workforce and job types in Desoto County

The job market in Desoto County is powered by 13,409 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.9% run their own businesses, 65.4% are employed by private companies, and 17.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,409
3.8% year-over-year change
White collar
8,719
Blue collar
4,690
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,719 65% 1.9%
Blue collar 4,690 35% 7.4%
Employer type
Self employees
11.9%
Private companies
65.4%
Governmental workers
17.5%
Not for profit companies
5.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,592 11.9% 0.3%
Private companies 8,766 65.4% 5.6%
Governmental workers 2,347 17.5% 6.5%
Not for profit companies 704 5.2% -14.8%
Unemployment rate
9.5%
15.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Desoto County stands at 9.5%, 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 Desoto County

How people get around in Desoto County

In Desoto County, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
2.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,075 92.2% 9.2%
Bus or trolleybus 144 1.1% -26.1%
Motorcycle 7 0% -65.0%
Bicycle 122 0.9% -20.3%
Walk 73 0.6% -79.3%
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 Desoto County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
34266 29,863 10,431 $50,972 $63,744
34268 466 131 $29,512 $44,334
34269 5,013 2,254 $58,636 $74,892

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FAQs about Desoto County demographics 

What is the total population of Desoto County?

Desoto County has a total population of 35,386 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 +1.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Desoto County?

The gender ratio in Desoto County is as follows:
  • 55.1% males (19,491 residents)
  • 44.9% females (15,895 residents)

What is the median age in Desoto County?

The median age in Desoto County is 43.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Desoto County?

The age distribution in Desoto County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.5% (5,126 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.4% (4,045 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26% (9,196 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.3% (8,602 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.8% (8,417 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Desoto County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Desoto County is as follows:
  • White: 60.8% (21,512 residents)
  • Black or African American: 12.5% (4,409 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (157 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (33 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (27 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.8% (5,582 residents)
  • Other: 10.4% (3,666 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.7% of the population in Desoto County.

How many housing units are there in Desoto County?

There are 15,872 housing units in Desoto County, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Desoto County has a total of 12,824 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Desoto County?

Desoto County has a median household income of $54,417, representing a +7.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 90.5% in Desoto County, with a workforce of 13,409 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65% (8,719 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35% (4,690 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.9% (1,592 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.4% (8,766 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.5% (2,347 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.2% (704 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