Lake Wales, FL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,785
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,347/yr
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,223
3.3% year-over-year change

Lake Wales population

How many people live in Lake Wales

Lake Wales is home to 16,785 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.8% of Lake Wales locals are male, and 53.2% are female.

Total population
16,785
2.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.8%
7,848
Female
53.2%
8,937
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,848 46.8% 0.7%
Female 8,937 53.2% 4.3%
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 Lake Wales is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.6% are children under 15, then 10.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 21.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 26.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.6%
15 to 24
10.2%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
21.8%
Over 65
26.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,784 16.6% -1.2%
15 to 24 1,703 10.2% 3.9%
25 to 44 4,157 24.8% 1.6%
45 to 64 3,653 21.8% 7.6%
Over 65 4,488 26.7% 1.5%
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 Lake Wales, 82.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 50% of locals are Caucasian, 21.8% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 11.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 15.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.4%
Non-citizens
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 13,888 82.7% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,919 11.4% 9.0%
Non-citizens 978 5.8% 18.7%
Racial breakdown
White
50%
Black or African American
21.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
15.6%
Other
11.2%
Value Percent
White 8,389 50%
Black or African American 3,654 21.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 34 0.2%
Asian 186 1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 26 0.2%
Two or more races 2,613 15.6%
Other 1,883 11.2%

Households in Lake Wales

A peek inside Lake Wales households

Lake Wales has 6,924 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.7% are families, while the remaining 37.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,924
5.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,583
Family households
4,341
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,583 37.3% 10.5%
Family households 4,341 62.7% 2.8%
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 Lake Wales

The housing landscape of Lake Wales

Lake Wales's housing consists of 8,223 units, with 64.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2% 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 5.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,223
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,285 64.3%
1 unit, attached 160 2%
2 units 447 5.4%
3 or 4 units 516 6.3%
5 to 9 units 628 7.6%
10 to 19 units 378 4.6%
20 to 49 units 201 2.4%
50 or more units 158 1.9%
Mobile home 450 5.5%
Homes built since 2020
49
69.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lake Wales

In Lake Wales, the median construction year is 1991. About 3.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 27.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 305 3.7% -8.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 284 3.4% -23.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 770 9.4% 14.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 513 6.2% -7.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,180 14.4% 4.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 936 11.4% 24.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,034 12.6% 0.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,248 27.3% 1.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 904 11% 2.5%
Built in 2020 or later 49 0.6% 69.0%
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.

Lake Wales occupancy rates

Out of the 6,924 occupied housing units in Lake Wales, 59.2% are owner-occupied, while 40.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,924
5.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,825
Owner occupied
4,099
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,825 40.8% 10.3%
Owner occupied 4,099 59.2% 2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
15.8%
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.

Lake Wales housing costs

Housing costs in Lake Wales come to a median of $1,087 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,110.

Median housing costs per month
$1,087/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 Lake Wales
$1,110/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 Lake Wales

Lake Wales education at a glance

About 42.1% of the population in Lake Wales went to high school, while 23.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.9% earned an associate degree and 13.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 705 5.2% 11.2%
High school diploma 5,716 42.1% 2.4%
College diploma 3,205 23.6% 7.0%
Associate degree 1,342 9.9% 22.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,786 13.2% 1.8%
Graduate degree 813 6% -10.4%
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 Lake Wales

How much people earn in Lake Wales

The average annual household income in Lake Wales was $66,110 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,347, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lake Wales
$66,110/year
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lake Wales
$56,347/year
1.0% year-over-year change

Lake Wales income by age

In Lake Wales, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $56,626. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $64,614 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $29,139, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,031 in earnings. Overall, 77.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $29,139 -5.2%
25 - 44 $56,626 35.1%
45 - 64 $64,614 -8.5%
Over 65 $52,031 3.2%
Above poverty level
12,551
Below poverty level
3,661
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,551 77.4% 5.3%
Below poverty level 3,661 22.6% -5.4%

Average renter income in Lake Wales

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Lake Wales, their median household income was $30,511 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 43.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$30,511
Rent-to-income ratio
43.7%
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 Lake Wales

Workforce and job types in Lake Wales

The job market in Lake Wales is powered by 5,842 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.6% run their own businesses, 61% are employed by private companies, and 16.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,842
3.9% year-over-year change
White collar
4,136
Blue collar
1,706
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,136 70.8% 3.6%
Blue collar 1,706 29.2% 4.5%
Employer type
Self employees
13.6%
Private companies
61%
Governmental workers
16.4%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 794 13.6% 20.5%
Private companies 3,565 61% -0.7%
Governmental workers 959 16.4% 15.7%
Not for profit companies 524 9% -3.9%
Unemployment rate
5.9%
-1.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lake Wales 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 Lake Wales

How people get around in Lake Wales

Commuting methods vary: 87.8% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,015 87.8% 0.4%
Bus or trolleybus 4 0.1% 100.0%
Railroad 2 0% 0.0%
Bicycle 1 0% 0.0%
Walk 34 0.6% 126.7%
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 Lake Wales by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
33853 12,674 4,923 $44,474 $61,666
33859 11,824 4,863 $57,760 $68,578
33898 18,527 7,498 $57,224 $76,089

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FAQs about Lake Wales demographics 

What is the total population of Lake Wales?

Lake Wales has a total population of 16,785 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 +2.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lake Wales?

The gender ratio in Lake Wales is as follows:
  • 46.8% males (7,848 residents)
  • 53.2% females (8,937 residents)

What is the median age in Lake Wales?

The median age in Lake Wales is 42.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lake Wales?

The age distribution in Lake Wales is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.6% (2,784 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.2% (1,703 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (4,157 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.8% (3,653 residents)
  • Over 65: 26.7% (4,488 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lake Wales?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lake Wales is as follows:
  • White: 50% (8,389 residents)
  • Black or African American: 21.8% (3,654 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (34 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (186 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (26 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.6% (2,613 residents)
  • Other: 11.2% (1,883 residents)

What percentage of the population in Lake Wales are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.7% of the population in Lake Wales.

How many housing units are there in Lake Wales?

There are 8,223 housing units in Lake Wales, reflecting a +3.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Lake Wales and what is the average household size?

Lake Wales has a total of 6,924 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lake Wales?

Lake Wales has a median household income of $56,347, representing a +1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Lake Wales?

The employment rate is 94.1% in Lake Wales, with a workforce of 5,842 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.8% (4,136 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.2% (1,706 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.6% (794 residents)
  • Private companies: 61% (3,565 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.4% (959 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (524 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