Jay County, IN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,229
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,969/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,904
-0.0% year-over-year change

Jay County population

How many people live in Jay County

Jay County is home to 20,229 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.7% of Jay County locals are male, and 49.3% are female.

Total population
20,229
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.7%
10,264
Female
49.3%
9,965
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,264 50.7% 0.6%
Female 9,965 49.3% -1.1%
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 Jay County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.4% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.4% of the population, while another 25.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.4%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
22.4%
45 to 64
25.4%
Over 65
18.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,338 21.4% 0.6%
15 to 24 2,506 12.4% -1.5%
25 to 44 4,541 22.4% 1.4%
45 to 64 5,144 25.4% -2.4%
Over 65 3,700 18.3% 0.6%
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 Jay County, 98.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. 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
0.8%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,920 98.5% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 164 0.8% -27.8%
Non-citizens 145 0.7% 16.9%
Racial breakdown
White
93.5%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.9%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 18,919 93.5%
Black or African American 67 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 12 0.1%
Asian 11 0%
Two or more races 994 4.9%
Other 226 1.1%

Households in Jay County

A peek inside Jay County households

Jay County has 7,807 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.6% are families, while the remaining 35.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,807
-1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,763
Family households
5,044
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,763 35.4% -4.7%
Family households 5,044 64.6% -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 Jay County

The housing landscape of Jay County

Jay County's housing consists of 8,904 units, with 85% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.1% 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 4.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,904
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,572 85%
1 unit, attached 94 1.1%
2 units 295 3.3%
3 or 4 units 147 1.6%
5 to 9 units 199 2.2%
10 to 19 units 16 0.2%
20 to 49 units 129 1.4%
50 or more units 17 0.2%
Mobile home 435 4.9%
Homes built since 2020
94
184.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Jay County

In Jay County, the median construction year is 1959. About 34.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.4% 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 3,038 34.1% -2.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 707 7.9% 14.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 831 9.3% -8.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,007 11.3% 3.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 911 10.2% -5.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 707 7.9% 14.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 787 8.8% -17.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 516 5.8% 10.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 306 3.4% 18.1%
Built in 2020 or later 94 1.1% 184.8%
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.

Jay County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,807 occupied housing units in Jay County, 79.9% are owner-occupied, while 20.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,807
-1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,568
Owner occupied
6,239
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,568 20.1% -10.3%
Owner occupied 6,239 79.9% 0.5%
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.

Jay County housing costs

Housing costs in Jay County come to a median of $779 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $770.

Median housing costs per month
$779/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 Jay County
$770/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 Jay County

Jay County education at a glance

About 54.4% of the population in Jay County went to high school, while 17.3% pursued college studies. Another 8.8% earned an associate degree and 8.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,038 6.9% 11.2%
High school diploma 8,178 54.4% -2.0%
College diploma 2,605 17.3% -8.8%
Associate degree 1,326 8.8% 16.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,218 8.1% 9.5%
Graduate degree 679 4.5% -0.9%
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 Jay County

How much people earn in Jay County

The average annual household income in Jay County was $70,491 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,969, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Jay County
$70,491/year
3.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Jay County
$54,969/year
1.6% year-over-year change

Jay County income by age

In Jay County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $73,500. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $68,927 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,565, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,625 in earnings. Overall, 85.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,565 5.5%
25 - 44 $73,500 10.8%
45 - 64 $68,927 -0.5%
Over 65 $40,625 2.1%
Above poverty level
16,828
Below poverty level
2,791
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,828 85.8% -1.9%
Below poverty level 2,791 14.2% 9.2%

Employment in Jay County

Workforce and job types in Jay County

The job market in Jay County is powered by 8,881 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 53.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 46.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.1% run their own businesses, 73.7% are employed by private companies, and 9.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,881
0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
4,743
Blue collar
4,138
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,743 53.4% 2.0%
Blue collar 4,138 46.6% -2.1%
Employer type
Self employees
12.1%
Private companies
73.7%
Governmental workers
9.1%
Not for profit companies
5.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,076 12.1% 8.0%
Private companies 6,549 73.7% -0.5%
Governmental workers 805 9.1% -6.7%
Not for profit companies 451 5.1% 3.2%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
16.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Jay County stands at 4.4%, 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 Jay County

How people get around in Jay County

Commuting methods vary: 86.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% 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 7,426 86.7% -1.0%
Taxicab 95 1.1% 79.2%
Bus or trolleybus 31 0.4% -24.4%
Bicycle 14 0.2% -12.5%
Walk 201 2.4% 4.2%
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 Jay County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
47326 1,803 501 $48,438 $71,889
47336 2,851 1,290 $50,633 $57,826
47369 1,212 554 $32,917 $52,685
47371 12,424 4,854 $64,000 $75,516
47373 2,200 784 $51,532 $63,107
47380 1,924 770 $57,000 $113,432
47381 218 85 $44,464 $61,802

Explore more communities

FAQs about Jay County demographics 

What is the total population of Jay County?

Jay County has a total population of 20,229 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 Jay County?

The gender ratio in Jay County is as follows:
  • 50.7% males (10,264 residents)
  • 49.3% females (9,965 residents)

What is the median age in Jay County?

The median age in Jay County is 39.5.

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

The age distribution in Jay County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.4% (4,338 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (2,506 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.4% (4,541 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.4% (5,144 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.3% (3,700 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Jay County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Jay County is as follows:
  • White: 93.5% (18,919 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (67 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (12 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (11 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.9% (994 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (226 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Jay County?

There are 8,904 housing units in Jay County, reflecting a -0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Jay County has a total of 7,807 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Jay County?

Jay County has a median household income of $54,969, representing a +1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Jay County, with a workforce of 8,881 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 53.4% (4,743 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 46.6% (4,138 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.1% (1,076 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.7% (6,549 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.1% (805 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.1% (451 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