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

Total population
298,924
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,806/yr
2.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
115,476
0.6% year-over-year change

Clayton County population

How many people live in Clayton County

Clayton County is home to 298,924 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.1% of Clayton County locals are male, and 52.9% are female.

Total population
298,924
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.1%
140,775
Female
52.9%
158,149
Value Percent YoY change
Male 140,775 47.1% 0.3%
Female 158,149 52.9% -0.2%
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 Clayton County is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 22% are children under 15, then 14.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.8% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 10.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
22%
15 to 24
14.5%
25 to 44
28.8%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 65,671 22% -2.4%
15 to 24 43,258 14.5% 0.6%
25 to 44 86,027 28.8% 0.2%
45 to 64 71,946 24.1% 0.1%
Over 65 32,022 10.7% 4.4%
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 Clayton County, 84.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 9.7% of locals are Caucasian, 69.4% are African American and 4.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.9%
Non-citizens
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 253,254 84.7% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 26,487 8.9% 2.2%
Non-citizens 19,183 6.4% -6.1%
Racial breakdown
White
9.7%
Black or African American
69.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
4.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
8.2%
Other
7.3%
Value Percent
White 28,917 9.7%
Black or African American 207,482 69.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,345 0.4%
Asian 14,751 4.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 189 0.1%
Two or more races 24,485 8.2%
Other 21,755 7.3%

Households in Clayton County

A peek inside Clayton County households

Clayton County has 105,941 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.9% are families, while the remaining 35.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
105,941
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
37,151
Family households
68,790
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 37,151 35.1% 3.0%
Family households 68,790 64.9% -1.1%
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 Clayton County

The housing landscape of Clayton County

Clayton County's housing consists of 115,476 units, with 65% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.7% 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 2.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
115,476
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 75,032 65%
1 unit, attached 5,471 4.7%
2 units 1,253 1.1%
3 or 4 units 5,810 5%
5 to 9 units 11,517 10%
10 to 19 units 8,418 7.3%
20 to 49 units 2,837 2.5%
50 or more units 1,969 1.7%
Mobile home 3,095 2.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 74 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
2,035
73.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Clayton County

In Clayton County, the median construction year is 1989. About 1.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 22.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,917 1.7% 47.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,575 1.4% -2.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,235 4.5% -7.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 12,778 11.1% 7.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 19,384 16.8% -7.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 19,367 16.8% -2.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 19,019 16.5% -1.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 26,107 22.6% 2.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8,059 7% 5.1%
Built in 2020 or later 2,035 1.8% 73.0%
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.

Clayton County occupancy rates

Out of the 105,941 occupied housing units in Clayton County, 54.5% are owner-occupied, while 45.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
105,941
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
48,159
Owner occupied
57,782
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 48,159 45.5% -2.6%
Owner occupied 57,782 54.5% 2.9%
Unoccupied housing units
8.3%
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.

Clayton County housing costs

Housing costs in Clayton County come to a median of $1,328 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,433.

Median housing costs per month
$1,328/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 Clayton County
$1,433/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 Clayton County

Clayton County education at a glance

About 42.3% of the population in Clayton County went to high school, while 22.4% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 14% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 12,683 5.8% -3.5%
High school diploma 92,492 42.3% -1.6%
College diploma 49,098 22.4% -0.2%
Associate degree 19,453 8.9% 4.0%
Bachelor's degree 30,653 14% 8.1%
Graduate degree 14,465 6.6% 4.3%
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 Clayton County

How much people earn in Clayton County

The average annual household income in Clayton County was $75,442 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,806, reflecting a +2.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Clayton County
$75,442/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Clayton County
$59,806/year
2.2% year-over-year change

Clayton County income by age

In Clayton County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $55,866. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,336 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,083, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,111 in earnings. Overall, 82.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,083 6.3%
25 - 44 $55,866 2.7%
45 - 64 $71,336 0.8%
Over 65 $47,111 -0.2%
Above poverty level
239,492
Below poverty level
51,961
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 239,492 82.2% -1.2%
Below poverty level 51,961 17.8% 6.8%

Employment in Clayton County

Workforce and job types in Clayton County

The job market in Clayton County is powered by 140,990 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 71.2% are employed by private companies, and 13.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
140,990
0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
96,307
Blue collar
44,683
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 96,307 68.3% 0.5%
Blue collar 44,683 31.7% 1.2%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
71.2%
Governmental workers
13.6%
Not for profit companies
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 13,173 9.3% 7.3%
Private companies 100,404 71.2% -0.7%
Governmental workers 19,233 13.6% 1.4%
Not for profit companies 8,180 5.8% 6.4%
Unemployment rate
7.2%
8.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Clayton County stands at 7.2%, 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 Clayton County

How people get around in Clayton County

In Clayton County, the average commute time is 32 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
32 min
-3.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 115,341 83.8% 0.2%
Taxicab 1,749 1.3% 7.4%
Bus or trolleybus 2,488 1.8% -29.9%
Subway or elevated 292 0.2% N/A
Railroad 55 0% -82.7%
Motorcycle 48 0% -48.9%
Bicycle 23 0% -50.0%
Walk 1,321 1% -5.2%
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 Clayton County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
30228 52,402 17,662 $82,619 $100,005
30236 50,089 17,676 $66,973 $92,191
30238 43,191 13,732 $62,185 $77,891
30250 607 0 $0 $0
30260 28,693 9,207 $52,666 $66,861
30273 17,844 5,937 $73,502 $78,600
30274 34,081 12,973 $52,209 $67,020
30288 8,116 2,869 $51,511 $78,768
30294 41,983 14,995 $79,762 $97,356
30296 27,045 9,990 $63,292 $73,412

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FAQs about Clayton County demographics 

What is the total population of Clayton County?

Clayton County has a total population of 298,924 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Clayton County?

The gender ratio in Clayton County is as follows:
  • 47.1% males (140,775 residents)
  • 52.9% females (158,149 residents)

What is the median age in Clayton County?

The median age in Clayton County is 33.7.

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

The age distribution in Clayton County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22% (65,671 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.5% (43,258 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.8% (86,027 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (71,946 residents)
  • Over 65: 10.7% (32,022 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Clayton County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Clayton County is as follows:
  • White: 9.7% (28,917 residents)
  • Black or African American: 69.4% (207,482 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (1,345 residents)
  • Asian: 4.9% (14,751 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (189 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.2% (24,485 residents)
  • Other: 7.3% (21,755 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.7% of the population in Clayton County.

How many housing units are there in Clayton County?

There are 115,476 housing units in Clayton County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Clayton County has a total of 105,941 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Clayton County?

Clayton County has a median household income of $59,806, 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 Clayton County?

The employment rate is 92.8% in Clayton County, with a workforce of 140,990 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.3% (96,307 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.7% (44,683 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (13,173 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.2% (100,404 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.6% (19,233 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.8% (8,180 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