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

Total population
105,702
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,897/yr
-1.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
58,635
0.9% year-over-year change

Highlands County population

How many people live in Highlands County

Highlands County is home to 105,702 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Highlands County locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
105,702
1.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
51,698
Female
51.1%
54,004
Value Percent YoY change
Male 51,698 48.9% 1.7%
Female 54,004 51.1% 1.9%
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 Highlands County is 54, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.6% are children under 15, then 8.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18.9% of the population, while another 22.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 36% are 65 or older.

Median age
54.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.6%
15 to 24
8.6%
25 to 44
18.9%
45 to 64
22.9%
Over 65
36%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 14,391 13.6% 0.4%
15 to 24 9,130 8.6% 1.7%
25 to 44 19,953 18.9% 2.3%
45 to 64 24,177 22.9% 2.0%
Over 65 38,051 36% 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 Highlands County, 84.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 68.4% of locals are Caucasian, 9.8% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.2%
Non-citizens
5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 89,672 84.8% 1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 10,774 10.2% 1.8%
Non-citizens 5,256 5% 6.8%
Racial breakdown
White
68.4%
Black or African American
9.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.5%
Other
7%
Value Percent
White 72,316 68.4%
Black or African American 10,359 9.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 751 0.7%
Asian 1,598 1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 46 0%
Two or more races 13,231 12.5%
Other 7,401 7%

Households in Highlands County

A peek inside Highlands County households

Highlands County has 46,879 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.1% are families, while the remaining 37.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
46,879
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
17,766
Family households
29,113
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 17,766 37.9% 2.7%
Family households 29,113 62.1% 1.6%
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 Highlands County

The housing landscape of Highlands County

Highlands County's housing consists of 58,635 units, with 59.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.9% 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 24.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
58,635
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 35,067 59.8%
1 unit, attached 2,899 4.9%
2 units 2,019 3.4%
3 or 4 units 1,289 2.2%
5 to 9 units 974 1.7%
10 to 19 units 449 0.8%
20 to 49 units 488 0.8%
50 or more units 766 1.3%
Mobile home 14,173 24.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 511 0.9%
Homes built since 2020
720
110.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Highlands County

In Highlands County, the median construction year is 1987. About 1.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 966 1.6% 3.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 861 1.5% -14.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,516 4.3% -5.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,452 5.9% 3.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 10,467 17.8% -0.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 16,685 28.5% 1.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 10,795 18.4% -3.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 9,178 15.6% 3.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,995 5.1% 9.9%
Built in 2020 or later 720 1.2% 110.5%
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.

Highlands County occupancy rates

Out of the 46,879 occupied housing units in Highlands County, 78.6% are owner-occupied, while 21.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 20% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
46,879
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
10,034
Owner occupied
36,845
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 10,034 21.4% 3.6%
Owner occupied 36,845 78.6% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
20.0%
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.

Highlands County housing costs

Housing costs in Highlands County come to a median of $817 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,035.

Median housing costs per month
$817/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 Highlands County
$1,035/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 Highlands County

Highlands County education at a glance

About 43.3% of the population in Highlands County went to high school, while 22.9% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 12.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,550 5.2% 6.9%
High school diploma 38,161 43.3% -0.2%
College diploma 20,159 22.9% 1.2%
Associate degree 8,010 9.1% 4.1%
Bachelor's degree 11,045 12.5% 6.7%
Graduate degree 6,146 7% 4.8%
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 Highlands County

How much people earn in Highlands County

The average annual household income in Highlands County was $71,955 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,897, reflecting a -1.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Highlands County
$71,955/year
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Highlands County
$54,897/year
-1.2% year-over-year change

Highlands County income by age

In Highlands County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,473. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $55,860 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $25,786, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,234 in earnings. Overall, 84.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $25,786 -18.3%
25 - 44 $70,473 6.7%
45 - 64 $55,860 -2.8%
Over 65 $51,234 -1.0%
Above poverty level
87,811
Below poverty level
15,739
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 87,811 84.8% 2.1%
Below poverty level 15,739 15.2% 0.8%

Employment in Highlands County

Workforce and job types in Highlands County

The job market in Highlands County is powered by 36,763 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12% run their own businesses, 62.1% are employed by private companies, and 16.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
36,763
2.9% year-over-year change
White collar
27,079
Blue collar
9,684
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 27,079 73.7% 2.4%
Blue collar 9,684 26.3% 4.4%
Employer type
Self employees
12%
Private companies
62.1%
Governmental workers
16.5%
Not for profit companies
9.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,398 12% 15.8%
Private companies 22,833 62.1% 1.1%
Governmental workers 6,066 16.5% -2.4%
Not for profit companies 3,466 9.4% 10.5%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
12.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Highlands County stands at 6.4%, 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 Highlands County

How people get around in Highlands County

Commuting methods vary: 87.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% 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 31,290 87.4% 0.5%
Taxicab 57 0.2% 62.9%
Bus or trolleybus 73 0.2% 114.7%
Ferryboat 10 0% 11.1%
Motorcycle 26 0.1% -74.3%
Bicycle 147 0.4% 58.1%
Walk 693 1.9% 4.7%
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.

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

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
33825 25,501 10,863 $46,949 $62,471
33852 22,600 9,972 $54,284 $73,874
33857 756 356 $80,313 $78,373
33870 25,195 11,165 $49,942 $63,881
33872 13,746 6,339 $69,578 $85,161
33875 11,856 4,915 $77,482 $95,597
33876 6,816 2,767 $55,564 $67,416
33960 681 347 $39,417 $54,685

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FAQs about Highlands County demographics 

What is the total population of Highlands County?

Highlands County has a total population of 105,702 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 +1.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Highlands County?

The gender ratio in Highlands County is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (51,698 residents)
  • 51.1% females (54,004 residents)

What is the median age in Highlands County?

The median age in Highlands County is 54.4.

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

The age distribution in Highlands County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.6% (14,391 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.6% (9,130 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18.9% (19,953 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.9% (24,177 residents)
  • Over 65: 36% (38,051 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Highlands County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Highlands County is as follows:
  • White: 68.4% (72,316 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.8% (10,359 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (751 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (1,598 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (46 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.5% (13,231 residents)
  • Other: 7% (7,401 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.8% of the population in Highlands County.

How many housing units are there in Highlands County?

There are 58,635 housing units in Highlands County, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Highlands County has a total of 46,879 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Highlands County?

Highlands County has a median household income of $54,897, representing a -1.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.6% in Highlands County, with a workforce of 36,763 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.7% (27,079 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.3% (9,684 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12% (4,398 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.1% (22,833 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.5% (6,066 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.4% (3,466 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