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

Total population
25,675
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,489/yr
11.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,942
0.6% year-over-year change

Hardee County population

How many people live in Hardee County

Hardee County is home to 25,675 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 54.6% of Hardee County locals are male, and 45.4% are female.

Total population
25,675
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
54.6%
14,031
Female
45.4%
11,644
Value Percent YoY change
Male 14,031 54.6% 1.8%
Female 11,644 45.4% -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 Hardee County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.3% are children under 15, then 14.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.5% of the population, while another 23.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.3%
15 to 24
14.8%
25 to 44
25.5%
45 to 64
23.4%
Over 65
16.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,201 20.3% -2.5%
15 to 24 3,799 14.8% 10.6%
25 to 44 6,540 25.5% -0.8%
45 to 64 5,997 23.4% 0.1%
Over 65 4,138 16.1% -0.5%
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 Hardee County, 85.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 55% of locals are Caucasian, 7.3% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 19.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.2%
Non-citizens
7.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,935 85.4% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,843 7.2% 3.1%
Non-citizens 1,897 7.4% 12.1%
Racial breakdown
White
55%
Black or African American
7.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.1%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
19.4%
Other
14%
Value Percent
White 14,122 55%
Black or African American 1,872 7.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 792 3.1%
Asian 288 1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 12 0%
Two or more races 4,986 19.4%
Other 3,603 14%

Households in Hardee County

A peek inside Hardee County households

Hardee County has 8,219 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 74.7% are families, while the remaining 25.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,219
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,083
Family households
6,136
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,083 25.3% 5.2%
Family households 6,136 74.7% -0.5%
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 Hardee County

The housing landscape of Hardee County

Hardee County's housing consists of 9,942 units, with 57.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.5% 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 27.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,942
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,740 57.7%
1 unit, attached 50 0.5%
2 units 240 2.4%
3 or 4 units 71 0.7%
5 to 9 units 615 6.2%
10 to 19 units 213 2.1%
20 to 49 units 57 0.6%
50 or more units 125 1.3%
Mobile home 2,693 27.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 138 1.4%
Homes built since 2020
83
53.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Hardee County

In Hardee County, the median construction year is 1987. About 5.8% 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, 19.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 580 5.8% -19.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 125 1.3% -41.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 369 3.7% -6.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,026 10.3% -0.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,098 21.1% 2.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,119 11.3% -0.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,800 18.1% -4.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,901 19.1% 13.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 841 8.5% 13.5%
Built in 2020 or later 83 0.8% 53.7%
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.

Hardee County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,219 occupied housing units in Hardee County, 71.4% are owner-occupied, while 28.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,219
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,351
Owner occupied
5,868
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,351 28.6% 1.0%
Owner occupied 5,868 71.4% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
17.3%
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.

Hardee County housing costs

Housing costs in Hardee County come to a median of $786 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $962.

Median housing costs per month
$786/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 Hardee County
$962/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 Hardee County

Hardee County education at a glance

About 54.1% of the population in Hardee County went to high school, while 16.3% pursued college studies. Another 7.1% earned an associate degree and 7.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,140 11% 5.1%
High school diploma 10,495 54.1% -2.7%
College diploma 3,163 16.3% 1.7%
Associate degree 1,380 7.1% 40.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,471 7.6% -5.3%
Graduate degree 756 3.9% 19.8%
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 Hardee County

How much people earn in Hardee County

The average annual household income in Hardee County was $84,981 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +10.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,489, reflecting a +11.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Hardee County
$84,981/year
10.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Hardee County
$60,489/year
11.5% year-over-year change

Hardee County income by age

In Hardee County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,938. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $82,773 overall. Overall, 74.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $68,938 17.1%
45 - 64 $82,773 15.9%
Over 65 $39,407 -2.0%
Above poverty level
17,637
Below poverty level
6,030
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,637 74.5% -0.5%
Below poverty level 6,030 25.5% 5.3%

Employment in Hardee County

Workforce and job types in Hardee County

The job market in Hardee County is powered by 9,942 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.7% run their own businesses, 70.5% are employed by private companies, and 12.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,942
4.7% year-over-year change
White collar
6,323
Blue collar
3,619
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,323 63.6% 4.4%
Blue collar 3,619 36.4% 5.1%
Employer type
Self employees
9.7%
Private companies
70.5%
Governmental workers
12.9%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 960 9.7% 14.2%
Private companies 7,008 70.5% 5.7%
Governmental workers 1,282 12.9% -5.3%
Not for profit companies 692 7% 2.4%
Unemployment rate
5.9%
-10.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Hardee County 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 Hardee County

How people get around in Hardee County

In Hardee County, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
-3.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,011 92.2% 3.1%
Bus or trolleybus 95 1% -3.1%
Motorcycle 11 0.1% 0.0%
Walk 176 1.8% 77.8%
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 Hardee County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
33834 6,188 1,601 $60,817 $74,140
33865 488 228 $67,818 $75,925
33873 13,935 4,810 $54,444 $85,487
33890 5,197 1,615 $86,831 $94,993

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FAQs about Hardee County demographics 

What is the total population of Hardee County?

Hardee County has a total population of 25,675 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Hardee County?

The gender ratio in Hardee County is as follows:
  • 54.6% males (14,031 residents)
  • 45.4% females (11,644 residents)

What is the median age in Hardee County?

The median age in Hardee County is 35.8.

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

The age distribution in Hardee County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.3% (5,201 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.8% (3,799 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.5% (6,540 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.4% (5,997 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.1% (4,138 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Hardee County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Hardee County is as follows:
  • White: 55% (14,122 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.3% (1,872 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.1% (792 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (288 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (12 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.4% (4,986 residents)
  • Other: 14% (3,603 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.4% of the population in Hardee County.

How many housing units are there in Hardee County?

There are 9,942 housing units in Hardee 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 Hardee County and what is the average household size?

Hardee County has a total of 8,219 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Hardee County?

Hardee County has a median household income of $60,489, representing a +11.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.1% in Hardee County, with a workforce of 9,942 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.6% (6,323 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.4% (3,619 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.7% (960 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.5% (7,008 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.9% (1,282 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (692 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