Sylvester, GA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,489
-1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,417/yr
-2.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,440
-3.1% year-over-year change

Sylvester population

How many people live in Sylvester

Sylvester is home to 5,489 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 43.1% of Sylvester locals are male, and 56.9% are female.

Total population
5,489
-1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
43.1%
2,367
Female
56.9%
3,122
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,367 43.1% -0.5%
Female 3,122 56.9% -1.8%
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 Sylvester is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.8% are children under 15, then 14.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.5% of the population, while another 25.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
37
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.8%
15 to 24
14.1%
25 to 44
20.5%
45 to 64
25.1%
Over 65
18.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,196 21.8% 2.3%
15 to 24 776 14.1% 7.6%
25 to 44 1,123 20.5% 7.7%
45 to 64 1,376 25.1% -5.4%
Over 65 1,018 18.6% -13.0%
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 Sylvester, 98.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 36.5% of locals are Caucasian, 56.5% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,409 98.5% -1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 48 0.9% -5.9%
Non-citizens 32 0.6% 357.1%
Racial breakdown
White
36.5%
Black or African American
56.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.9%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 2,002 36.5%
Black or African American 3,099 56.5%
Asian 64 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2 0%
Two or more races 270 4.9%
Other 52 1%

Households in Sylvester

A peek inside Sylvester households

Sylvester has 2,139 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 68.5% are families, while the remaining 31.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,139
-3.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
674
Family households
1,465
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 674 31.5% 2.6%
Family households 1,465 68.5% -5.7%
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 Sylvester

The housing landscape of Sylvester

Sylvester's housing consists of 2,440 units, with 71.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% 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 7.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,440
-3.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,750 71.7%
1 unit, attached 44 1.8%
2 units 237 9.7%
3 or 4 units 54 2.2%
5 to 9 units 107 4.4%
10 to 19 units 26 1.1%
20 to 49 units 7 0.3%
50 or more units 34 1.4%
Mobile home 181 7.4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sylvester

In Sylvester, the median construction year is 1977. About 3.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 81 3.3% 22.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 69 2.8% 4.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 284 11.6% -15.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 465 19.1% -3.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 463 19% 14.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 447 18.3% -8.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 342 14% 5.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 210 8.6% -20.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 79 3.2% -6.0%
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.

Sylvester occupancy rates

Out of the 2,139 occupied housing units in Sylvester, 57% are owner-occupied, while 43% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,139
-3.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
920
Owner occupied
1,219
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 920 43% 0.7%
Owner occupied 1,219 57% -5.9%
Unoccupied housing units
12.3%
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.

Sylvester housing costs

Housing costs in Sylvester come to a median of $777 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $896.

Median housing costs per month
$777/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 Sylvester
$896/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 Sylvester

Sylvester education at a glance

About 57.3% of the population in Sylvester went to high school, while 13.8% pursued college studies. Another 11.7% earned an associate degree and 9.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 129 3.2% 4.9%
High school diploma 2,330 57.3% 9.0%
College diploma 561 13.8% -23.3%
Associate degree 475 11.7% -10.4%
Bachelor's degree 373 9.2% -16.9%
Graduate degree 196 4.8% 2.1%
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 Sylvester

How much people earn in Sylvester

The average annual household income in Sylvester was $67,531 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -3.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,417, reflecting a -2.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sylvester
$67,531/year
-3.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sylvester
$58,417/year
-2.3% year-over-year change

Sylvester income by age

In Sylvester, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,659. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $69,226 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,455, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,375 in earnings. Overall, 72.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,455 N/A
25 - 44 $60,659 -0.1%
45 - 64 $69,226 0.8%
Over 65 $39,375 -9.7%
Above poverty level
3,782
Below poverty level
1,466
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,782 72.1% -4.6%
Below poverty level 1,466 27.9% 10.7%

Average renter income in Sylvester

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sylvester, their median household income was $27,462 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$27,462
Rent-to-income ratio
39.2%
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 Sylvester

Workforce and job types in Sylvester

The job market in Sylvester is powered by 2,312 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 56.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 43.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 70.4% are employed by private companies, and 12.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,312
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
1,304
Blue collar
1,008
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,304 56.4% -1.5%
Blue collar 1,008 43.6% 1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
70.4%
Governmental workers
12.9%
Not for profit companies
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 209 9% 13.0%
Private companies 1,627 70.4% -2.2%
Governmental workers 299 12.9% -9.1%
Not for profit companies 177 7.7% 24.6%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
-1.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sylvester stands at 6%, 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 Sylvester

How people get around in Sylvester

Commuting methods vary: 85.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% 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 1,976 85.5% 3.3%
Bus or trolleybus 56 2.4% 16.7%
Walk 50 2.2% -46.8%
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 Sylvester by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
31791 11,255 4,347 $61,530 $68,958

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FAQs about Sylvester demographics 

What is the total population of Sylvester?

Sylvester has a total population of 5,489 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 -1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sylvester?

The gender ratio in Sylvester is as follows:
  • 43.1% males (2,367 residents)
  • 56.9% females (3,122 residents)

What is the median age in Sylvester?

The median age in Sylvester is 37.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sylvester?

The age distribution in Sylvester is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.8% (1,196 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.1% (776 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.5% (1,123 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.1% (1,376 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.6% (1,018 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sylvester?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sylvester is as follows:
  • White: 36.5% (2,002 residents)
  • Black or African American: 56.5% (3,099 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (64 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (2 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.9% (270 residents)
  • Other: 1% (52 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.5% of the population in Sylvester.

How many housing units are there in Sylvester?

There are 2,440 housing units in Sylvester, reflecting a -3.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sylvester has a total of 2,139 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sylvester?

Sylvester has a median household income of $58,417, representing a -2.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94% in Sylvester, with a workforce of 2,312 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 56.4% (1,304 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 43.6% (1,008 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (209 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.4% (1,627 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.9% (299 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.7% (177 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