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

Total population
69,143
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$88,438/yr
3.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
25,943
2.7% year-over-year change

Effingham County population

How many people live in Effingham County

Effingham County is home to 69,143 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Effingham County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
69,143
2.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
34,295
Female
50.4%
34,848
Value Percent YoY change
Male 34,295 49.6% 3.0%
Female 34,848 50.4% 2.6%
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 Effingham County is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.7% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.5% of the population, while another 25.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
37
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.7%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
28.5%
45 to 64
25.1%
Over 65
12.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 15,010 21.7% 1.6%
15 to 24 8,468 12.2% 1.9%
25 to 44 19,690 28.5% 3.0%
45 to 64 17,344 25.1% 3.1%
Over 65 8,631 12.5% 4.8%
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 Effingham County, 93.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 75% of locals are Caucasian, 14.5% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.1%
Non-citizens
2.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 64,711 93.6% 2.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,813 4.1% 6.3%
Non-citizens 1,619 2.3% 31.8%
Racial breakdown
White
75%
Black or African American
14.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6.6%
Other
2.6%
Value Percent
White 51,883 75%
Black or African American 9,995 14.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 118 0.2%
Asian 681 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 95 0.1%
Two or more races 4,599 6.6%
Other 1,772 2.6%

Households in Effingham County

A peek inside Effingham County households

Effingham County has 24,287 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 74.3% are families, while the remaining 25.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
24,287
3.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
6,238
Family households
18,049
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,238 25.7% 12.1%
Family households 18,049 74.3% 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 Effingham County

The housing landscape of Effingham County

Effingham County's housing consists of 25,943 units, with 74.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.4% 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 17.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
25,943
2.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 19,230 74.1%
1 unit, attached 372 1.4%
2 units 246 1%
3 or 4 units 288 1.1%
5 to 9 units 603 2.3%
10 to 19 units 353 1.4%
20 to 49 units 228 0.9%
50 or more units 92 0.4%
Mobile home 4,425 17.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 106 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
1,207
77.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Effingham County

In Effingham County, the median construction year is 2001. About 2.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 28.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 20.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 752 2.9% -1.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 197 0.8% -16.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 365 1.4% 2.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,229 4.7% -0.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,327 9% 17.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,669 10.3% -9.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,485 17.3% 1.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7,346 28.3% -0.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,366 20.7% 1.9%
Built in 2020 or later 1,207 4.6% 77.5%
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.

Effingham County occupancy rates

Out of the 24,287 occupied housing units in Effingham County, 78.4% are owner-occupied, while 21.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
24,287
3.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,257
Owner occupied
19,030
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,257 21.6% 3.9%
Owner occupied 19,030 78.4% 2.9%
Unoccupied housing units
6.4%
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.

Effingham County housing costs

Housing costs in Effingham County come to a median of $1,346 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,147.

Median housing costs per month
$1,346/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 Effingham County
$1,147/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 Effingham County

Effingham County education at a glance

About 40.9% of the population in Effingham County went to high school, while 22.5% pursued college studies. Another 9.4% earned an associate degree and 17.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,031 2% 19.2%
High school diploma 20,802 40.9% 2.6%
College diploma 11,470 22.5% 1.8%
Associate degree 4,790 9.4% 3.3%
Bachelor's degree 9,042 17.8% 1.8%
Graduate degree 3,751 7.4% 9.6%
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 Effingham County

How much people earn in Effingham County

The average annual household income in Effingham County was $106,856 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $88,438, reflecting a +3.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Effingham County
$106,856/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Effingham County
$88,438/year
3.5% year-over-year change

Effingham County income by age

In Effingham County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $99,149. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $98,069 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $60,188, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,215 in earnings. Overall, 93.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $60,188 N/A
25 - 44 $99,149 0.7%
45 - 64 $98,069 4.0%
Over 65 $60,215 9.7%
Above poverty level
63,152
Below poverty level
4,595
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 63,152 93.2% 3.5%
Below poverty level 4,595 6.8% -5.9%

Employment in Effingham County

Workforce and job types in Effingham County

The job market in Effingham County is powered by 33,077 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.2% run their own businesses, 73.4% are employed by private companies, and 14% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
33,077
4.3% year-over-year change
White collar
23,220
Blue collar
9,857
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 23,220 70.2% 4.3%
Blue collar 9,857 29.8% 4.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8.2%
Private companies
73.4%
Governmental workers
14%
Not for profit companies
4.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,715 8.2% 18.9%
Private companies 24,296 73.4% 4.7%
Governmental workers 4,621 14% -1.4%
Not for profit companies 1,445 4.4% -5.4%
Unemployment rate
5.5%
-0.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Effingham County stands at 5.5%, 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 Effingham County

How people get around in Effingham County

Commuting methods vary: 91.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.4% 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 30,107 91.5% 2.1%
Bus or trolleybus 130 0.4% -12.2%
Subway or elevated 64 0.2% N/A
Ferryboat 63 0.2% N/A
Motorcycle 70 0.2% -7.9%
Bicycle 16 0% 23.1%
Walk 131 0.4% -6.4%
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 Effingham County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
31302 8,899 3,061 $68,998 $85,187
31303 2,604 1,064 $75,968 $95,876
31307 1,752 537 $105,679 $122,803
31312 25,991 8,313 $101,750 $116,799
31318 451 189 $78,036 $84,394
31326 23,940 9,150 $83,145 $107,160
31329 9,609 3,500 $78,483 $91,447
30446 2,162 609 $75,521 $85,652

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FAQs about Effingham County demographics 

What is the total population of Effingham County?

Effingham County has a total population of 69,143 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 +2.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Effingham County?

The gender ratio in Effingham County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (34,295 residents)
  • 50.4% females (34,848 residents)

What is the median age in Effingham County?

The median age in Effingham County is 37.

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

The age distribution in Effingham County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.7% (15,010 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (8,468 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.5% (19,690 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.1% (17,344 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.5% (8,631 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Effingham County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Effingham County is as follows:
  • White: 75% (51,883 residents)
  • Black or African American: 14.5% (9,995 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (118 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (681 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (95 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.6% (4,599 residents)
  • Other: 2.6% (1,772 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.6% of the population in Effingham County.

How many housing units are there in Effingham County?

There are 25,943 housing units in Effingham County, reflecting a +2.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Effingham County has a total of 24,287 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Effingham County?

Effingham County has a median household income of $88,438, representing a +3.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.5% in Effingham County, with a workforce of 33,077 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.2% (23,220 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.8% (9,857 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.2% (2,715 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.4% (24,296 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14% (4,621 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.4% (1,445 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