Santa Rosa County, FL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
198,472
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$91,922/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
80,002
2.2% year-over-year change

Santa Rosa County population

How many people live in Santa Rosa County

Santa Rosa County is home to 198,472 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.2% of Santa Rosa County locals are male, and 48.8% are female.

Total population
198,472
2.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.2%
101,575
Female
48.8%
96,897
Value Percent YoY change
Male 101,575 51.2% 2.5%
Female 96,897 48.8% 2.4%
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 Santa Rosa County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.8% are children under 15, then 11.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.5% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.8%
15 to 24
11.4%
25 to 44
27.5%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
16.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 35,318 17.8% 1.3%
15 to 24 22,605 11.4% 1.8%
25 to 44 54,531 27.5% 3.4%
45 to 64 52,789 26.6% 1.5%
Over 65 33,229 16.7% 4.2%
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 Santa Rosa County, 92.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.3% of locals are Caucasian, 5.6% are African American and 2% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.8%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 183,580 92.5% 2.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 11,500 5.8% 5.1%
Non-citizens 3,392 1.7% 8.8%
Racial breakdown
White
80.3%
Black or African American
5.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
9.5%
Other
2.1%
Value Percent
White 159,336 80.3%
Black or African American 11,140 5.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 501 0.2%
Asian 4,033 2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 421 0.2%
Two or more races 18,919 9.5%
Other 4,122 2.1%

Households in Santa Rosa County

A peek inside Santa Rosa County households

Santa Rosa County has 72,605 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 72% are families, while the remaining 28% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
72,605
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
20,306
Family households
52,299
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 20,306 28% -1.1%
Family households 52,299 72% 3.1%
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 Santa Rosa County

The housing landscape of Santa Rosa County

Santa Rosa County's housing consists of 80,002 units, with 80.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.9% 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 8.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
80,002
2.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 64,169 80.2%
1 unit, attached 1,513 1.9%
2 units 1,345 1.7%
3 or 4 units 1,129 1.4%
5 to 9 units 1,113 1.4%
10 to 19 units 752 0.9%
20 to 49 units 870 1.1%
50 or more units 2,181 2.7%
Mobile home 6,719 8.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 211 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
4,849
85.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Santa Rosa County

In Santa Rosa County, the median construction year is 1998. About 0.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 22% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 6.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 637 0.8% 9.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 589 0.7% -3.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,104 3.9% 6.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,006 5% -1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 7,781 9.7% -4.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 12,090 15.1% -2.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 15,315 19.1% -1.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 17,626 22% -2.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 14,005 17.5% 4.4%
Built in 2020 or later 4,849 6.1% 85.9%
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.

Santa Rosa County occupancy rates

Out of the 72,605 occupied housing units in Santa Rosa County, 80.6% are owner-occupied, while 19.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
72,605
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
14,074
Owner occupied
58,531
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 14,074 19.4% -1.3%
Owner occupied 58,531 80.6% 2.7%
Unoccupied housing units
9.2%
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.

Santa Rosa County housing costs

Housing costs in Santa Rosa County come to a median of $1,418 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,544.

Median housing costs per month
$1,418/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 Santa Rosa County
$1,544/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 Santa Rosa County

Santa Rosa County education at a glance

About 32.9% of the population in Santa Rosa County went to high school, while 22.3% pursued college studies. Another 12.6% earned an associate degree and 19.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,868 1.8% 4.5%
High school diploma 51,039 32.9% 0.7%
College diploma 34,668 22.3% -0.6%
Associate degree 19,520 12.6% 5.9%
Bachelor's degree 30,269 19.5% 5.2%
Graduate degree 16,858 10.9% 7.4%
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 Santa Rosa County

How much people earn in Santa Rosa County

The average annual household income in Santa Rosa County was $114,225 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $91,922, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Santa Rosa County
$114,225/year
3.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Santa Rosa County
$91,922/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Santa Rosa County income by age

In Santa Rosa County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $101,093. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $103,910 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $63,523, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $68,515 in earnings. Overall, 91.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $63,523 6.4%
25 - 44 $101,093 3.8%
45 - 64 $103,910 5.0%
Over 65 $68,515 6.4%
Above poverty level
174,590
Below poverty level
16,647
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 174,590 91.3% 2.1%
Below poverty level 16,647 8.7% 7.4%

Employment in Santa Rosa County

Workforce and job types in Santa Rosa County

The job market in Santa Rosa County is powered by 86,599 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.1% run their own businesses, 63.9% are employed by private companies, and 16.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
86,599
3.2% year-over-year change
White collar
68,602
Blue collar
17,997
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 68,602 79.2% 3.2%
Blue collar 17,997 20.8% 3.0%
Employer type
Self employees
11.1%
Private companies
63.9%
Governmental workers
16.4%
Not for profit companies
8.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 9,589 11.1% 2.1%
Private companies 55,319 63.9% 2.9%
Governmental workers 14,237 16.4% 5.0%
Not for profit companies 7,454 8.6% 3.2%
Unemployment rate
4.5%
2.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Santa Rosa County stands at 4.5%, 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 Santa Rosa County

How people get around in Santa Rosa County

In Santa Rosa County, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.6% 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
1.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 75,703 84.6% 2.1%
Bus or trolleybus 42 0% 121.0%
Motorcycle 193 0.2% -11.1%
Bicycle 165 0.2% -9.8%
Walk 574 0.6% -36.2%
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 Santa Rosa County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
32563 30,364 11,576 $100,396 $125,467
32564 2,676 1,150 $59,875 $80,942
32565 5,664 2,123 $84,432 $93,621
32566 43,883 16,120 $105,551 $126,047
32570 37,197 14,154 $77,222 $92,825
32571 42,171 14,856 $87,617 $114,805
32583 31,828 10,672 $85,440 $104,782
32530 275 74 $0 $68,830
32561 9,321 4,175 $115,799 $171,617

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FAQs about Santa Rosa County demographics 

What is the total population of Santa Rosa County?

Santa Rosa County has a total population of 198,472 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 +2.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Santa Rosa County?

The gender ratio in Santa Rosa County is as follows:
  • 51.2% males (101,575 residents)
  • 48.8% females (96,897 residents)

What is the median age in Santa Rosa County?

The median age in Santa Rosa County is 40.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Santa Rosa County?

The age distribution in Santa Rosa County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.8% (35,318 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.4% (22,605 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.5% (54,531 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (52,789 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.7% (33,229 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Rosa County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Rosa County is as follows:
  • White: 80.3% (159,336 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.6% (11,140 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (501 residents)
  • Asian: 2% (4,033 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (421 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.5% (18,919 residents)
  • Other: 2.1% (4,122 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.5% of the population in Santa Rosa County.

How many housing units are there in Santa Rosa County?

There are 80,002 housing units in Santa Rosa County, reflecting a +2.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Santa Rosa County has a total of 72,605 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Santa Rosa County?

Santa Rosa County has a median household income of $91,922, representing a +3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.5% in Santa Rosa County, with a workforce of 86,599 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.2% (68,602 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.8% (17,997 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.1% (9,589 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.9% (55,319 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.4% (14,237 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.6% (7,454 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