Gem County, ID demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,614
3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$64,605/yr
-2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,954
2.1% year-over-year change

Gem County population

How many people live in Gem County

Gem County is home to 20,614 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.5% of Gem County locals are male, and 48.5% are female.

Total population
20,614
3.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.5%
10,620
Female
48.5%
9,994
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,620 51.5% 5.0%
Female 9,994 48.5% 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 Gem County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.7% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.6% of the population, while another 25.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.7%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
22.6%
45 to 64
25.4%
Over 65
23.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,640 17.7% -0.0%
15 to 24 2,310 11.2% 2.3%
25 to 44 4,666 22.6% 5.3%
45 to 64 5,243 25.4% 4.7%
Over 65 4,755 23.1% 5.4%
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 Gem County, 93.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.7% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 8.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3%
Non-citizens
3.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,244 93.4% 2.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 615 3% 40.4%
Non-citizens 755 3.7% 21.2%
Racial breakdown
White
86.2%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.8%
Other
3.6%
Value Percent
White 17,758 86.2%
Black or African American 2 0%
American Indian and Alaska Native 155 0.8%
Asian 159 0.8%
Two or more races 1,803 8.8%
Other 737 3.6%

Households in Gem County

A peek inside Gem County households

Gem County has 7,643 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 73% are families, while the remaining 27% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,643
3.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,060
Family households
5,583
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,060 27% 3.1%
Family households 5,583 73% 3.2%
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 Gem County

The housing landscape of Gem County

Gem County's housing consists of 7,954 units, with 79.9% 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 12% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,954
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,352 79.9%
1 unit, attached 139 1.8%
2 units 127 1.6%
3 or 4 units 110 1.4%
5 to 9 units 61 0.8%
10 to 19 units 10 0.1%
20 to 49 units 116 1.5%
50 or more units 8 0.1%
Mobile home 951 12%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 80 1%
Homes built since 2020
366
30.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Gem County

In Gem County, the median construction year is 1983. About 9.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6% 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 757 9.5% -1.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 399 5% -2.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 504 6.3% 5.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 473 6% 11.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,644 20.7% -3.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 580 7.3% 6.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,083 13.6% 9.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,674 21% -0.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 474 6% -6.7%
Built in 2020 or later 366 4.6% 30.2%
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.

Gem County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,643 occupied housing units in Gem County, 76% are owner-occupied, while 24% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,643
3.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,832
Owner occupied
5,811
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,832 24% 5.7%
Owner occupied 5,811 76% 2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
3.9%
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.

Gem County housing costs

Housing costs in Gem County come to a median of $977 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,038.

Median housing costs per month
$977/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 Gem County
$1,038/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 Gem County

Gem County education at a glance

About 43.9% of the population in Gem County went to high school, while 26.3% pursued college studies. Another 7.3% earned an associate degree and 15.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 546 3.4% 33.2%
High school diploma 7,063 43.9% 4.3%
College diploma 4,239 26.3% 0.8%
Associate degree 1,172 7.3% 32.9%
Bachelor's degree 2,514 15.6% 2.6%
Graduate degree 557 3.5% -19.5%
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 Gem County

How much people earn in Gem County

The average annual household income in Gem County was $86,642 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $64,605, reflecting a -2.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Gem County
$86,642/year
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Gem County
$64,605/year
-2.5% year-over-year change

Gem County income by age

In Gem County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $78,349. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $72,584 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $68,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,335 in earnings. Overall, 88.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $68,750 3.2%
25 - 44 $78,349 3.3%
45 - 64 $72,584 -3.5%
Over 65 $50,335 1.9%
Above poverty level
17,556
Below poverty level
2,367
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,556 88.1% 2.1%
Below poverty level 2,367 11.9% 19.0%

Employment in Gem County

Workforce and job types in Gem County

The job market in Gem County is powered by 8,982 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.6% run their own businesses, 63.1% are employed by private companies, and 14.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,982
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
6,188
Blue collar
2,794
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,188 68.9% 0.4%
Blue collar 2,794 31.1% 2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
15.6%
Private companies
63.1%
Governmental workers
14.9%
Not for profit companies
6.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,406 15.6% -11.8%
Private companies 5,667 63.1% 0.6%
Governmental workers 1,342 14.9% 13.0%
Not for profit companies 567 6.3% 21.1%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
5.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Gem County stands at 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 Gem County

How people get around in Gem County

Commuting methods vary: 83.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 7,297 83.7% 0.3%
Taxicab 42 0.5% N/A
Subway or elevated 25 0.3% N/A
Motorcycle 32 0.4% -3.0%
Bicycle 98 1.1% 16.7%
Walk 143 1.6% 14.4%
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 Gem County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
83616 35,413 13,556 $125,203 $180,216
83617 19,058 7,000 $65,291 $87,941
83636 109 44 $85,761 $78,514
83657 156 103 $51,183 $53,058
83670 752 273 $91,685 $92,945

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FAQs about Gem County demographics 

What is the total population of Gem County?

Gem County has a total population of 20,614 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 +3.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Gem County?

The gender ratio in Gem County is as follows:
  • 51.5% males (10,620 residents)
  • 48.5% females (9,994 residents)

What is the median age in Gem County?

The median age in Gem County is 44.2.

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

The age distribution in Gem County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.7% (3,640 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (2,310 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.6% (4,666 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.4% (5,243 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.1% (4,755 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Gem County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Gem County is as follows:
  • White: 86.2% (17,758 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (2 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (155 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (159 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.8% (1,803 residents)
  • Other: 3.6% (737 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.4% of the population in Gem County.

How many housing units are there in Gem County?

There are 7,954 housing units in Gem County, reflecting a +2.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Gem County has a total of 7,643 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Gem County?

Gem County has a median household income of $64,605, representing a -2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97% in Gem County, with a workforce of 8,982 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.9% (6,188 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.1% (2,794 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.6% (1,406 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.1% (5,667 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.9% (1,342 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.3% (567 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