Chatham County, GA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
300,879
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$71,097/yr
2.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
137,532
1.1% year-over-year change

Chatham County population

How many people live in Chatham County

Chatham County is home to 300,879 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.1% of Chatham County locals are male, and 51.9% are female.

Total population
300,879
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.1%
144,721
Female
51.9%
156,158
Value Percent YoY change
Male 144,721 48.1% 0.9%
Female 156,158 51.9% 0.9%
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 Chatham County is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.2% are children under 15, then 14% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.8% of the population, while another 23.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.2%
15 to 24
14%
25 to 44
28.8%
45 to 64
23.2%
Over 65
16.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 51,650 17.2% -0.7%
15 to 24 42,223 14% 0.9%
25 to 44 86,757 28.8% 1.1%
45 to 64 69,873 23.2% 0.3%
Over 65 50,376 16.7% 3.2%
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 Chatham County, 89.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 46.9% of locals are Caucasian, 38.9% are African American and 3.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.1%
Non-citizens
4.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 268,482 89.2% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 18,377 6.1% -4.3%
Non-citizens 14,020 4.7% 20.6%
Racial breakdown
White
46.9%
Black or African American
38.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7.1%
Other
3.5%
Value Percent
White 141,221 46.9%
Black or African American 117,105 38.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 984 0.3%
Asian 9,384 3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 396 0.1%
Two or more races 21,249 7.1%
Other 10,540 3.5%

Households in Chatham County

A peek inside Chatham County households

Chatham County has 120,383 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.3% are families, while the remaining 40.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
120,383
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
48,995
Family households
71,388
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 48,995 40.7% 2.9%
Family households 71,388 59.3% -0.3%
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 Chatham County

The housing landscape of Chatham County

Chatham County's housing consists of 137,532 units, with 61.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.2% 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 3.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
137,532
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 84,665 61.6%
1 unit, attached 7,193 5.2%
2 units 5,556 4%
3 or 4 units 8,335 6.1%
5 to 9 units 8,988 6.5%
10 to 19 units 6,903 5%
20 to 49 units 5,244 3.8%
50 or more units 5,811 4.2%
Mobile home 4,763 3.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 74 0%
Homes built since 2020
3,748
70.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Chatham County

In Chatham County, the median construction year is 1986. About 9.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 12,721 9.2% -1.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 6,341 4.6% 2.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 13,214 9.6% 1.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 10,243 7.4% -2.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 15,177 11% -9.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 17,551 12.8% -0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 15,294 11.1% -3.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 23,952 17.4% 3.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 19,291 14% 8.0%
Built in 2020 or later 3,748 2.7% 70.0%
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.

Chatham County occupancy rates

Out of the 120,383 occupied housing units in Chatham County, 56.8% are owner-occupied, while 43.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
120,383
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
52,064
Owner occupied
68,319
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 52,064 43.2% -0.1%
Owner occupied 68,319 56.8% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
12.5%
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.

Chatham County housing costs

Housing costs in Chatham County come to a median of $1,411 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,471.

Median housing costs per month
$1,411/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 Chatham County
$1,471/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 Chatham County

Chatham County education at a glance

About 32.1% of the population in Chatham County went to high school, while 23.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.1% earned an associate degree and 20.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 6,939 2.9% 8.4%
High school diploma 76,656 32.1% -0.2%
College diploma 56,707 23.8% -1.5%
Associate degree 17,033 7.1% 6.5%
Bachelor's degree 48,835 20.5% 0.6%
Graduate degree 32,484 13.6% 6.8%
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 Chatham County

How much people earn in Chatham County

The average annual household income in Chatham County was $98,268 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $71,097, reflecting a +2.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Chatham County
$98,268/year
3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Chatham County
$71,097/year
2.2% year-over-year change

Chatham County income by age

In Chatham County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,559. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $83,644 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,251, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $62,844 in earnings. Overall, 85.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,251 3.8%
25 - 44 $70,559 0.6%
45 - 64 $83,644 2.6%
Over 65 $62,844 2.7%
Above poverty level
244,637
Below poverty level
40,396
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 244,637 85.8% 0.6%
Below poverty level 40,396 14.2% 0.5%

Employment in Chatham County

Workforce and job types in Chatham County

The job market in Chatham County is powered by 144,351 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.1% run their own businesses, 66.9% are employed by private companies, and 13.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
144,351
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
114,243
Blue collar
30,108
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 114,243 79.1% 1.8%
Blue collar 30,108 20.9% -1.7%
Employer type
Self employees
11.1%
Private companies
66.9%
Governmental workers
13.9%
Not for profit companies
8.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 15,974 11.1% 3.2%
Private companies 96,608 66.9% -0.2%
Governmental workers 20,048 13.9% -0.1%
Not for profit companies 11,721 8.1% 10.7%
Unemployment rate
5.9%
5.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Chatham 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 Chatham County

How people get around in Chatham County

Commuting methods vary: 82.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% 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 118,905 82.4% -1.4%
Taxicab 573 0.4% 33.6%
Bus or trolleybus 1,721 1.2% -9.1%
Subway or elevated 46 0% N/A
Railroad 12 0% 20.0%
Motorcycle 233 0.2% 180.7%
Bicycle 1,135 0.8% 1.3%
Walk 3,043 2.1% -6.8%
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 Chatham County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
31302 8,899 3,061 $68,998 $85,187
31322 30,145 12,279 $91,344 $104,768
31328 3,353 1,575 $109,631 $120,633
31401 20,445 8,459 $52,509 $83,365
31404 30,062 12,476 $53,303 $73,406
31405 40,764 15,185 $65,710 $93,829
31406 34,904 14,192 $67,120 $108,956
31407 24,893 10,081 $81,124 $91,771
31408 11,621 4,063 $45,839 $58,694
31409 444 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about Chatham County demographics 

What is the total population of Chatham County?

Chatham County has a total population of 300,879 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 Chatham County?

The gender ratio in Chatham County is as follows:
  • 48.1% males (144,721 residents)
  • 51.9% females (156,158 residents)

What is the median age in Chatham County?

The median age in Chatham County is 37.2.

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

The age distribution in Chatham County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.2% (51,650 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14% (42,223 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.8% (86,757 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.2% (69,873 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.7% (50,376 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Chatham County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Chatham County is as follows:
  • White: 46.9% (141,221 residents)
  • Black or African American: 38.9% (117,105 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (984 residents)
  • Asian: 3.1% (9,384 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (396 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.1% (21,249 residents)
  • Other: 3.5% (10,540 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.2% of the population in Chatham County.

How many housing units are there in Chatham County?

There are 137,532 housing units in Chatham County, reflecting a +1.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Chatham County has a total of 120,383 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Chatham County?

Chatham County has a median household income of $71,097, representing a +2.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.1% in Chatham County, with a workforce of 144,351 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.1% (114,243 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.9% (30,108 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.1% (15,974 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.9% (96,608 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.9% (20,048 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.1% (11,721 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