Waycross, GA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
13,756
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$38,301/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,158
2.8% year-over-year change

Waycross population

How many people live in Waycross

Waycross is home to 13,756 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.1% of Waycross locals are male, and 54.9% are female.

Total population
13,756
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.1%
6,207
Female
54.9%
7,549
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,207 45.1% -0.9%
Female 7,549 54.9% 0.0%
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 Waycross is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 25.1% are children under 15, then 11.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.6% of the population, while another 23.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
38
Age breakdown
Under 15
25.1%
15 to 24
11.1%
25 to 44
22.6%
45 to 64
23.6%
Over 65
17.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,452 25.1% -7.1%
15 to 24 1,531 11.1% 4.4%
25 to 44 3,104 22.6% -11.6%
45 to 64 3,246 23.6% 11.2%
Over 65 2,423 17.6% 10.2%
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 Waycross, 96% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 35.7% of locals are Caucasian, 56% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.5%
Non-citizens
3.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 13,212 96% -1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 65 0.5% 32.6%
Non-citizens 479 3.5% 62.9%
Racial breakdown
White
35.7%
Black or African American
56%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.5%
Other
2%
Value Percent
White 4,913 35.7%
Black or African American 7,707 56%
American Indian and Alaska Native 10 0.1%
Asian 95 0.7%
Two or more races 759 5.5%
Other 272 2%

Households in Waycross

A peek inside Waycross households

Waycross has 5,394 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.6% are families, while the remaining 48.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,394
2.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,613
Family households
2,781
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,613 48.4% 1.4%
Family households 2,781 51.6% 3.9%
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 Waycross

The housing landscape of Waycross

Waycross's housing consists of 7,158 units, with 63.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 8.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,158
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,549 63.6%
1 unit, attached 83 1.2%
2 units 433 6%
3 or 4 units 483 6.8%
5 to 9 units 485 6.8%
10 to 19 units 232 3.2%
20 to 49 units 199 2.8%
50 or more units 63 0.9%
Mobile home 631 8.8%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Waycross

In Waycross, the median construction year is 1969. About 8.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12.6% 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 585 8.2% -6.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 901 12.6% 6.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 964 13.5% -15.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,229 17.2% 2.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,230 17.2% 5.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 637 8.9% -11.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 869 12.1% 36.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 425 5.9% -1.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 318 4.4% 66.5%
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.

Waycross occupancy rates

Out of the 5,394 occupied housing units in Waycross, 46.5% are owner-occupied, while 53.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 24.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,394
2.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,884
Owner occupied
2,510
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,884 53.5% -2.4%
Owner occupied 2,510 46.5% 9.3%
Unoccupied housing units
24.6%
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.

Waycross housing costs

Housing costs in Waycross come to a median of $696 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $768.

Median housing costs per month
$696/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 Waycross
$768/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 Waycross

Waycross education at a glance

About 51.1% of the population in Waycross went to high school, while 21.3% pursued college studies. Another 6.1% earned an associate degree and 9.7% 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 684 7% 13.6%
High school diploma 5,009 51.1% 4.2%
College diploma 2,088 21.3% -5.7%
Associate degree 602 6.1% 7.9%
Bachelor's degree 950 9.7% -9.1%
Graduate degree 472 4.8% 27.2%
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 Waycross

How much people earn in Waycross

The average annual household income in Waycross was $47,324 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $38,301, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Waycross
$47,324/year
-7.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Waycross
$38,301/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Waycross income by age

In Waycross, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $41,286. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $44,500 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $15,455, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $27,232 in earnings. Overall, 67.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $15,455 N/A
25 - 44 $41,286 2.7%
45 - 64 $44,500 -1.9%
Over 65 $27,232 -13.5%
Above poverty level
8,945
Below poverty level
4,333
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,945 67.4% 3.8%
Below poverty level 4,333 32.6% -3.1%

Average renter income in Waycross

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Waycross, their median household income was $26,309 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$26,309
Rent-to-income ratio
35%
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 Waycross

Workforce and job types in Waycross

The job market in Waycross is powered by 4,278 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.5% run their own businesses, 70.2% are employed by private companies, and 18.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,278
-6.6% year-over-year change
White collar
2,775
Blue collar
1,503
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,775 64.9% -8.0%
Blue collar 1,503 35.1% -3.8%
Employer type
Self employees
7.5%
Private companies
70.2%
Governmental workers
18.2%
Not for profit companies
4.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 320 7.5% 14.7%
Private companies 3,003 70.2% -9.6%
Governmental workers 778 18.2% -5.5%
Not for profit companies 177 4.1% 12.7%
Unemployment rate
11.6%
83.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Waycross stands at 11.6%, 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 Waycross

How people get around in Waycross

Commuting methods vary: 88.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.3% 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 3,673 88.2% -10.9%
Taxicab 10 0.2% 11.1%
Bus or trolleybus 4 0.1% 100.0%
Bicycle 8 0.2% -27.3%
Walk 56 1.3% 36.6%
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 Waycross by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
31501 13,511 5,501 $37,314 $49,927
31503 22,468 7,570 $55,895 $67,452

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Waycross demographics 

What is the total population of Waycross?

Waycross has a total population of 13,756 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 Waycross?

The gender ratio in Waycross is as follows:
  • 45.1% males (6,207 residents)
  • 54.9% females (7,549 residents)

What is the median age in Waycross?

The median age in Waycross is 38.

What is the age distribution of the population in Waycross?

The age distribution in Waycross is as follows:
  • Under 15: 25.1% (3,452 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.1% (1,531 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.6% (3,104 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.6% (3,246 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.6% (2,423 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Waycross?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Waycross is as follows:
  • White: 35.7% (4,913 residents)
  • Black or African American: 56% (7,707 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (10 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (95 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.5% (759 residents)
  • Other: 2% (272 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96% of the population in Waycross.

How many housing units are there in Waycross?

There are 7,158 housing units in Waycross, reflecting a +2.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Waycross has a total of 5,394 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Waycross?

Waycross has a median household income of $38,301, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 88.4% in Waycross, with a workforce of 4,278 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.9% (2,775 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.1% (1,503 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.5% (320 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.2% (3,003 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.2% (778 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.1% (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