Dalton, GA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
34,538
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,577/yr
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,440
3.6% year-over-year change

Dalton population

How many people live in Dalton

Dalton is home to 34,538 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Dalton locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
34,538
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
17,309
Female
49.9%
17,229
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,309 50.1% 2.2%
Female 17,229 49.9% -1.4%
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 Dalton is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.4% are children under 15, then 16% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.3% of the population, while another 23.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.4%
15 to 24
16%
25 to 44
27.3%
45 to 64
23.3%
Over 65
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,044 20.4% -1.3%
15 to 24 5,543 16% -3.0%
25 to 44 9,421 27.3% 3.1%
45 to 64 8,051 23.3% -1.5%
Over 65 4,479 13% 5.6%
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 Dalton, 68.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 13.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 18.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 47.3% of locals are Caucasian, 6.3% are African American and 2.2% have Asian roots. Another 5.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 25.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 13.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
68.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
13.2%
Non-citizens
18.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 23,558 68.2% -2.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,544 13.2% 3.2%
Non-citizens 6,436 18.6% 11.4%
Racial breakdown
White
47.3%
Black or African American
6.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
5.2%
Asian
2.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
13.2%
Other
25.8%
Value Percent
White 16,336 47.3%
Black or African American 2,180 6.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,778 5.2%
Asian 761 2.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 19 0.1%
Two or more races 4,560 13.2%
Other 8,904 25.8%

Households in Dalton

A peek inside Dalton households

Dalton has 12,399 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.2% are families, while the remaining 33.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,399
5.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,191
Family households
8,208
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,191 33.8% 8.9%
Family households 8,208 66.2% 3.7%
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 Dalton

The housing landscape of Dalton

Dalton's housing consists of 13,440 units, with 51.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.3% 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 1.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,440
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,917 51.5%
1 unit, attached 1,253 9.3%
2 units 609 4.5%
3 or 4 units 1,406 10.5%
5 to 9 units 885 6.6%
10 to 19 units 1,403 10.4%
20 to 49 units 615 4.6%
50 or more units 124 0.9%
Mobile home 228 1.7%
Homes built since 2020
42
2.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dalton

In Dalton, the median construction year is 1982. About 6.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 844 6.3% 59.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 572 4.3% 6.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,576 11.7% 13.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,628 12.1% 10.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,640 12.2% -14.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,859 13.8% -13.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,211 16.4% 6.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,264 16.8% 6.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 804 6% 10.3%
Built in 2020 or later 42 0.3% 2.4%
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.

Dalton occupancy rates

Out of the 12,399 occupied housing units in Dalton, 52.4% are owner-occupied, while 47.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,399
5.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,906
Owner occupied
6,493
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,906 47.6% 8.6%
Owner occupied 6,493 52.4% 2.7%
Unoccupied housing units
7.7%
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.

Dalton housing costs

Housing costs in Dalton come to a median of $965 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $996.

Median housing costs per month
$965/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 Dalton
$996/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 Dalton

Dalton education at a glance

About 37.2% of the population in Dalton went to high school, while 15.8% pursued college studies. Another 6.2% earned an associate degree and 13.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,750 18.4% 4.4%
High school diploma 9,597 37.2% 1.7%
College diploma 4,074 15.8% -2.8%
Associate degree 1,602 6.2% -6.2%
Bachelor's degree 3,404 13.2% 8.2%
Graduate degree 2,372 9.2% 1.7%
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 Dalton

How much people earn in Dalton

The average annual household income in Dalton was $90,235 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,577, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dalton
$90,235/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dalton
$63,577/year
3.8% year-over-year change

Dalton income by age

In Dalton, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,946. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $81,422 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $29,901, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,709 in earnings. Overall, 81.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $29,901 -15.0%
25 - 44 $62,946 3.2%
45 - 64 $81,422 4.5%
Over 65 $45,709 -1.3%
Above poverty level
27,288
Below poverty level
6,129
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 27,288 81.7% -0.4%
Below poverty level 6,129 18.3% 8.2%

Average renter income in Dalton

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Dalton, their median household income was $40,850 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$40,850
Rent-to-income ratio
29.3%
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 Dalton

Workforce and job types in Dalton

The job market in Dalton is powered by 16,495 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 59.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 40.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.4% run their own businesses, 75.2% are employed by private companies, and 8.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,495
2.7% year-over-year change
White collar
9,813
Blue collar
6,682
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,813 59.5% -0.1%
Blue collar 6,682 40.5% 7.0%
Employer type
Self employees
12.4%
Private companies
75.2%
Governmental workers
8.3%
Not for profit companies
4.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,048 12.4% 28.2%
Private companies 12,406 75.2% 0.5%
Governmental workers 1,362 8.3% 3.4%
Not for profit companies 679 4.1% -15.9%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
3.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dalton stands at 4.3%, 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 Dalton

How people get around in Dalton

In Dalton, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92.5% 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
18 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 15,099 92.5% 1.7%
Taxicab 194 1.2% 10.2%
Walk 158 1% 0.0%
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 Dalton by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
30720 27,249 9,707 $69,369 $99,394
30721 53,060 18,934 $62,094 $76,250

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FAQs about Dalton demographics 

What is the total population of Dalton?

Dalton has a total population of 34,538 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dalton?

The gender ratio in Dalton is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (17,309 residents)
  • 49.9% females (17,229 residents)

What is the median age in Dalton?

The median age in Dalton is 33.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Dalton?

The age distribution in Dalton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.4% (7,044 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16% (5,543 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.3% (9,421 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.3% (8,051 residents)
  • Over 65: 13% (4,479 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dalton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dalton is as follows:
  • White: 47.3% (16,336 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.3% (2,180 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 5.2% (1,778 residents)
  • Asian: 2.2% (761 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (19 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13.2% (4,560 residents)
  • Other: 25.8% (8,904 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 68.2% of the population in Dalton.

How many housing units are there in Dalton?

There are 13,440 housing units in Dalton, reflecting a +3.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Dalton has a total of 12,399 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dalton?

Dalton has a median household income of $63,577, representing a +3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.7% in Dalton, with a workforce of 16,495 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 59.5% (9,813 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 40.5% (6,682 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.4% (2,048 residents)
  • Private companies: 75.2% (12,406 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.3% (1,362 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.1% (679 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