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

Total population
34,618
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$78,083/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,030
0.6% year-over-year change

Whitley County population

How many people live in Whitley County

Whitley County is home to 34,618 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Whitley County locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
34,618
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
17,207
Female
50.3%
17,411
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,207 49.7% -0.1%
Female 17,411 50.3% 1.4%
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 Whitley County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.6% of the population, while another 26.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
24.6%
45 to 64
26.2%
Over 65
19.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,519 18.8% -0.7%
15 to 24 3,896 11.2% 0.0%
25 to 44 8,510 24.6% 3.0%
45 to 64 9,051 26.2% -2.4%
Over 65 6,642 19.2% 3.8%
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 Whitley County, 98.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.5% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
0.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 33,994 98.2% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 546 1.6% 11.9%
Non-citizens 78 0.2% 16.4%
Racial breakdown
White
92.5%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.3%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 32,025 92.5%
Black or African American 56 0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 30 0.1%
Asian 119 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 11 0%
Two or more races 1,832 5.3%
Other 545 1.6%

Households in Whitley County

A peek inside Whitley County households

Whitley County has 14,029 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 70.4% are families, while the remaining 29.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,029
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,157
Family households
9,872
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,157 29.6% -3.4%
Family households 9,872 70.4% 2.5%
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 Whitley County

The housing landscape of Whitley County

Whitley County's housing consists of 15,030 units, with 84% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 5.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,030
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,627 84%
1 unit, attached 157 1%
2 units 280 1.9%
3 or 4 units 222 1.5%
5 to 9 units 400 2.7%
10 to 19 units 284 1.9%
20 to 49 units 162 1.1%
50 or more units 55 0.4%
Mobile home 843 5.6%
Homes built since 2020
246
156.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Whitley County

In Whitley County, the median construction year is 1979. About 22.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,367 22.4% 6.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 608 4% -4.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 996 6.6% -10.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,079 7.2% 3.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,565 10.4% 9.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,346 9% -14.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,640 17.6% 5.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,994 13.3% -6.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,189 7.9% -4.0%
Built in 2020 or later 246 1.6% 156.2%
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.

Whitley County occupancy rates

Out of the 14,029 occupied housing units in Whitley County, 81.8% are owner-occupied, while 18.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,029
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,548
Owner occupied
11,481
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,548 18.2% -7.6%
Owner occupied 11,481 81.8% 2.8%
Unoccupied housing units
6.7%
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.

Whitley County housing costs

Housing costs in Whitley County come to a median of $985 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $934.

Median housing costs per month
$985/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 Whitley County
$934/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 Whitley County

Whitley County education at a glance

About 43.9% of the population in Whitley County went to high school, while 20.6% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 15.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 594 2.2% -7.2%
High school diploma 11,724 43.9% -0.4%
College diploma 5,515 20.6% 1.5%
Associate degree 2,940 11% 1.1%
Bachelor's degree 4,240 15.9% 4.2%
Graduate degree 1,709 6.4% 4.9%
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 Whitley County

How much people earn in Whitley County

The average annual household income in Whitley County was $94,006 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $78,083, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Whitley County
$94,006/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Whitley County
$78,083/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Whitley County income by age

In Whitley County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,563. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $93,080 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,250, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,888 in earnings. Overall, 90.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,250 6.4%
25 - 44 $90,563 3.5%
45 - 64 $93,080 5.9%
Over 65 $56,888 -1.2%
Above poverty level
30,457
Below poverty level
3,263
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,457 90.3% 1.7%
Below poverty level 3,263 9.7% -7.0%

Employment in Whitley County

Workforce and job types in Whitley County

The job market in Whitley County is powered by 17,516 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.6% run their own businesses, 71.3% are employed by private companies, and 10.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,516
1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
11,550
Blue collar
5,966
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,550 65.9% 3.4%
Blue collar 5,966 34.1% -1.1%
Employer type
Self employees
6.6%
Private companies
71.3%
Governmental workers
10.6%
Not for profit companies
11.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,165 6.6% -9.2%
Private companies 12,485 71.3% 0.9%
Governmental workers 1,848 10.6% 15.1%
Not for profit companies 2,018 11.5% 4.0%
Unemployment rate
3.3%
-26.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Whitley County stands at 3.3%, 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 Whitley County

How people get around in Whitley County

Commuting methods vary: 89.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% 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 15,439 89.2% 0.9%
Taxicab 16 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 26 0.2% 8.3%
Ferryboat 3 0% N/A
Motorcycle 14 0.1% -17.6%
Bicycle 4 0% 300.0%
Walk 240 1.4% 10.1%
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 Whitley County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
46723 7,617 3,032 $84,286 $96,447
46725 23,297 9,736 $79,526 $92,672
46764 1,554 543 $62,939 $83,659
46783 7,764 3,056 $101,705 $135,247
46787 4,031 1,536 $62,242 $83,436
46562 5,040 2,072 $68,902 $85,280

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FAQs about Whitley County demographics 

What is the total population of Whitley County?

Whitley County has a total population of 34,618 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Whitley County?

The gender ratio in Whitley County is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (17,207 residents)
  • 50.3% females (17,411 residents)

What is the median age in Whitley County?

The median age in Whitley County is 41.3.

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

The age distribution in Whitley County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (6,519 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (3,896 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.6% (8,510 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.2% (9,051 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.2% (6,642 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Whitley County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Whitley County is as follows:
  • White: 92.5% (32,025 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (56 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (30 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (119 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (11 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.3% (1,832 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (545 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.2% of the population in Whitley County.

How many housing units are there in Whitley County?

There are 15,030 housing units in Whitley County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Whitley County has a total of 14,029 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Whitley County?

Whitley County has a median household income of $78,083, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.7% in Whitley County, with a workforce of 17,516 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.9% (11,550 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.1% (5,966 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.6% (1,165 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.3% (12,485 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.6% (1,848 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.5% (2,018 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