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

Total population
17,013
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$67,242/yr
7.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,796
0.1% year-over-year change

Clayton County population

How many people live in Clayton County

Clayton County is home to 17,013 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Clayton County locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
17,013
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
8,562
Female
49.7%
8,451
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,562 50.3% -0.6%
Female 8,451 49.7% -0.1%
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 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.6% are children under 15, then 10.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.6% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.6%
15 to 24
10.7%
25 to 44
20.6%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
25%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,002 17.6% -1.8%
15 to 24 1,827 10.7% 1.7%
25 to 44 3,506 20.6% 0.4%
45 to 64 4,418 26% -3.3%
Over 65 4,260 25% 2.5%
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, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.5%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,602 97.6% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 253 1.5% -4.5%
Non-citizens 158 0.9% 0.6%
Racial breakdown
White
95%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.4%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 16,159 95%
Black or African American 112 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 10 0.1%
Asian 56 0.3%
Two or more races 581 3.4%
Other 95 0.6%

Households in Clayton County

A peek inside Clayton County households

Clayton County has 7,509 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.9% are families, while the remaining 38.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,509
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,860
Family households
4,649
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,860 38.1% 0.5%
Family households 4,649 61.9% 1.9%
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 Clayton County

The housing landscape of Clayton County

Clayton County's housing consists of 8,796 units, with 81.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.7% 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 4.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,796
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,141 81.2%
1 unit, attached 59 0.7%
2 units 395 4.5%
3 or 4 units 214 2.4%
5 to 9 units 236 2.7%
10 to 19 units 195 2.2%
20 to 49 units 120 1.4%
50 or more units 9 0.1%
Mobile home 394 4.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 33 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
100
143.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Clayton County

In Clayton County, the median construction year is 1960. About 36.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,216 36.6% 0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 550 6.2% 3.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 639 7.3% 15.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 531 6% -16.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,015 11.5% -2.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 622 7.1% -0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 605 6.9% -22.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 851 9.7% 3.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 667 7.6% 18.3%
Built in 2020 or later 100 1.1% 143.9%
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 7,509 occupied housing units in Clayton County, 78% are owner-occupied, while 22% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,509
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,653
Owner occupied
5,856
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,653 22% -4.7%
Owner occupied 5,856 78% 3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
14.6%
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.

Clayton County housing costs

Housing costs in Clayton County come to a median of $809 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $790.

Median housing costs per month
$809/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
$790/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 48.8% of the population in Clayton County went to high school, while 21.4% pursued college studies. Another 12.6% earned an associate degree and 9.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 513 3.8% -11.9%
High school diploma 6,505 48.8% -2.0%
College diploma 2,848 21.4% 9.5%
Associate degree 1,683 12.6% 7.1%
Bachelor's degree 1,306 9.8% -10.6%
Graduate degree 478 3.6% -6.3%
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 $86,441 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $67,242, reflecting a +7.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Clayton County
$86,441/year
6.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Clayton County
$67,242/year
7.9% 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 $89,873. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,584 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $38,077, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,568 in earnings. Overall, 89% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $38,077 -1.7%
25 - 44 $89,873 4.8%
45 - 64 $80,584 8.7%
Over 65 $49,568 3.4%
Above poverty level
14,737
Below poverty level
1,813
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,737 89% 2.5%
Below poverty level 1,813 11% -20.5%

Employment in Clayton County

Workforce and job types in Clayton County

The job market in Clayton County is powered by 8,320 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.1% run their own businesses, 68.5% are employed by private companies, and 11.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,320
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
5,316
Blue collar
3,004
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,316 63.9% -2.0%
Blue collar 3,004 36.1% 2.9%
Employer type
Self employees
13.1%
Private companies
68.5%
Governmental workers
11.7%
Not for profit companies
6.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,087 13.1% -3.6%
Private companies 5,697 68.5% 1.2%
Governmental workers 975 11.7% 1.9%
Not for profit companies 561 6.7% -11.1%
Unemployment rate
2.5%
-2.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Clayton County stands at 2.5%, 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 Clayton County

How people get around in Clayton County

Commuting methods vary: 83.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.1% 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 6,889 83.9% -0.0%
Taxicab 81 1% -8.0%
Bus or trolleybus 4 0% 33.3%
Bicycle 3 0% -25.0%
Walk 335 4.1% 6.3%
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
52035 1,331 539 $62,109 $79,744
52042 1,804 654 $95,833 $132,482
52043 2,058 960 $76,705 $94,873
52044 297 89 $75,792 $73,580
52047 462 210 $59,250 $70,901
52048 201 95 $56,477 $70,160
52049 1,370 608 $61,964 $80,835
52050 422 192 $67,206 $200,228
52052 2,999 1,425 $61,528 $86,135
52053 1,148 462 $83,000 $98,059

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FAQs about Clayton County demographics 

What is the total population of Clayton County?

Clayton County has a total population of 17,013 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Clayton County?

The gender ratio in Clayton County is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (8,562 residents)
  • 49.7% females (8,451 residents)

What is the median age in Clayton County?

The median age in Clayton County is 46.4.

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

The age distribution in Clayton County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.6% (3,002 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.7% (1,827 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.6% (3,506 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (4,418 residents)
  • Over 65: 25% (4,260 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Clayton County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Clayton County is as follows:
  • White: 95% (16,159 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (112 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (10 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (56 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.4% (581 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (95 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in Clayton County.

How many housing units are there in Clayton County?

There are 8,796 housing units in Clayton County, reflecting a +0.1% 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 7,509 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Clayton County?

Clayton County has a median household income of $67,242, representing a +7.9% 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 97.5% in Clayton County, with a workforce of 8,320 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.9% (5,316 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.1% (3,004 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.1% (1,087 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.5% (5,697 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.7% (975 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.7% (561 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