Palatka, FL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,650
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$32,021/yr
-4.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,574
0.1% year-over-year change

Palatka population

How many people live in Palatka

Palatka is home to 10,650 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.2% of Palatka locals are male, and 55.8% are female.

Total population
10,650
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.2%
4,702
Female
55.8%
5,948
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,702 44.2% -0.4%
Female 5,948 55.8% 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 Palatka is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.1% are children under 15, then 13.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.2% of the population, while another 22.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.1%
15 to 24
13.6%
25 to 44
22.2%
45 to 64
22.5%
Over 65
18.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,464 23.1% 3.8%
15 to 24 1,449 13.6% 20.2%
25 to 44 2,360 22.2% 3.9%
45 to 64 2,392 22.5% 2.1%
Over 65 1,985 18.6% -16.1%
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 Palatka, 93% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 41.4% of locals are Caucasian, 46.5% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.8%
Non-citizens
3.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,906 93% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 401 3.8% 5.2%
Non-citizens 343 3.2% 13.2%
Racial breakdown
White
41.4%
Black or African American
46.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.6%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 4,410 41.4%
Black or African American 4,948 46.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 50 0.5%
Asian 32 0.3%
Two or more races 1,126 10.6%
Other 84 0.8%

Households in Palatka

A peek inside Palatka households

Palatka has 4,246 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.1% are families, while the remaining 44.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,246
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,907
Family households
2,339
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,907 44.9% -11.8%
Family households 2,339 55.1% 10.6%
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 Palatka

The housing landscape of Palatka

Palatka's housing consists of 4,574 units, with 63.3% 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 2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,574
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,895 63.3%
1 unit, attached 22 0.5%
2 units 474 10.4%
3 or 4 units 310 6.8%
5 to 9 units 497 10.9%
10 to 19 units 25 0.6%
20 to 49 units 39 0.8%
50 or more units 214 4.7%
Mobile home 92 2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
38
0.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Palatka

In Palatka, the median construction year is 1974. About 14.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.5% 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 678 14.8% -19.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 177 3.9% 15.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 676 14.8% -3.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 459 10% -14.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 717 15.7% 18.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 650 14.2% -13.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 478 10.4% 34.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 588 12.9% 25.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 113 2.5% -10.3%
Built in 2020 or later 38 0.8% 0.0%
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.

Palatka occupancy rates

Out of the 4,246 occupied housing units in Palatka, 50.8% are owner-occupied, while 49.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,246
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,091
Owner occupied
2,155
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,091 49.2% -8.7%
Owner occupied 2,155 50.8% 8.4%
Unoccupied housing units
7.2%
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.

Palatka housing costs

Housing costs in Palatka come to a median of $848 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $901.

Median housing costs per month
$848/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 Palatka
$901/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 Palatka

Palatka education at a glance

About 56.2% of the population in Palatka went to high school, while 21.2% pursued college studies. Another 8.5% earned an associate degree and 5.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 315 4.1% 5.3%
High school diploma 4,330 56.2% -4.8%
College diploma 1,636 21.2% 8.3%
Associate degree 653 8.5% 41.3%
Bachelor's degree 419 5.4% -27.1%
Graduate degree 349 4.5% 1.2%
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 Palatka

How much people earn in Palatka

The average annual household income in Palatka was $48,109 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $32,021, reflecting a -4.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Palatka
$48,109/year
7.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Palatka
$32,021/year
-4.8% year-over-year change

Palatka income by age

In Palatka, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $42,746. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $30,540 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $64,000, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $26,261 in earnings. Overall, 62.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $64,000 18.1%
25 - 44 $42,746 -12.4%
45 - 64 $30,540 6.9%
Over 65 $26,261 -3.9%
Above poverty level
6,255
Below poverty level
3,723
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,255 62.7% -4.4%
Below poverty level 3,723 37.3% 10.4%

Average renter income in Palatka

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Palatka, their median household income was $28,004 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 38.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$28,004
Rent-to-income ratio
38.6%
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 Palatka

Workforce and job types in Palatka

The job market in Palatka is powered by 3,378 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.6% run their own businesses, 72.4% are employed by private companies, and 9.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,378
5.6% year-over-year change
White collar
2,454
Blue collar
924
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,454 72.6% 1.4%
Blue collar 924 27.4% 18.6%
Employer type
Self employees
10.6%
Private companies
72.4%
Governmental workers
9.8%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 358 10.6% 40.9%
Private companies 2,445 72.4% 15.0%
Governmental workers 331 9.8% -39.1%
Not for profit companies 244 7.2% -11.3%
Unemployment rate
9.3%
38.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Palatka stands at 9.3%, 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 Palatka

How people get around in Palatka

Commuting methods vary: 87.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% 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 2,875 87.6% 1.2%
Bus or trolleybus 77 2.3% 57.1%
Motorcycle 7 0.2% N/A
Walk 67 2% -22.1%
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 Palatka by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
32177 25,645 10,444 $47,796 $66,493

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FAQs about Palatka demographics 

What is the total population of Palatka?

Palatka has a total population of 10,650 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Palatka?

The gender ratio in Palatka is as follows:
  • 44.2% males (4,702 residents)
  • 55.8% females (5,948 residents)

What is the median age in Palatka?

The median age in Palatka is 35.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Palatka?

The age distribution in Palatka is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.1% (2,464 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.6% (1,449 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.2% (2,360 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.5% (2,392 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.6% (1,985 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Palatka?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Palatka is as follows:
  • White: 41.4% (4,410 residents)
  • Black or African American: 46.5% (4,948 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (50 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (32 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.6% (1,126 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (84 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93% of the population in Palatka.

How many housing units are there in Palatka?

There are 4,574 housing units in Palatka, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Palatka has a total of 4,246 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Palatka?

Palatka has a median household income of $32,021, representing a -4.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Palatka?

The employment rate is 90.7% in Palatka, with a workforce of 3,378 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.6% (2,454 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.4% (924 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.6% (358 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.4% (2,445 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.8% (331 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (244 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