Emporia, KS demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
24,131
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,704/yr
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,538
0.8% year-over-year change

Emporia population

How many people live in Emporia

Emporia is home to 24,131 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Emporia locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
24,131
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
11,681
Female
51.6%
12,450
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,681 48.4% 1.6%
Female 12,450 51.6% -1.2%
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 Emporia is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.7% are children under 15, then 24.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25% of the population, while another 19% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
30.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.7%
15 to 24
24.1%
25 to 44
25%
45 to 64
19%
Over 65
14.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,273 17.7% -1.6%
15 to 24 5,825 24.1% -0.2%
25 to 44 6,028 25% 1.3%
45 to 64 4,598 19% 0.3%
Over 65 3,407 14.1% 0.7%
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 Emporia, 85.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 65.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1.8% are African American and 2.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 22.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.3%
Non-citizens
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 20,661 85.6% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,269 5.3% -1.1%
Non-citizens 2,201 9.1% 5.0%
Racial breakdown
White
65.4%
Black or African American
1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
2.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
22.8%
Other
6.9%
Value Percent
White 15,780 65.4%
Black or African American 443 1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 136 0.6%
Asian 597 2.5%
Two or more races 5,503 22.8%
Other 1,672 6.9%

Households in Emporia

A peek inside Emporia households

Emporia has 10,385 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.5% are families, while the remaining 49.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
10,385
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,143
Family households
5,242
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,143 49.5% 8.8%
Family households 5,242 50.5% -4.4%
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 Emporia

The housing landscape of Emporia

Emporia's housing consists of 11,538 units, with 54% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 7.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,538
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,229 54%
1 unit, attached 248 2.2%
2 units 334 2.9%
3 or 4 units 888 7.7%
5 to 9 units 1,014 8.8%
10 to 19 units 917 8%
20 to 49 units 670 5.8%
50 or more units 342 3%
Mobile home 896 7.8%
Homes built since 2020
56
60.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Emporia

In Emporia, the median construction year is 1969. About 28.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,270 28.3% -0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 313 2.7% -25.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 693 6% -10.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,624 14.1% 6.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,283 19.8% 7.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,353 11.7% -3.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 596 5.2% -18.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 777 6.7% 34.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 573 5% 1.6%
Built in 2020 or later 56 0.5% 60.0%
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.

Emporia occupancy rates

Out of the 10,385 occupied housing units in Emporia, 49.9% are owner-occupied, while 50.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
10,385
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,206
Owner occupied
5,179
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,206 50.1% 2.0%
Owner occupied 5,179 49.9% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
10.0%
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.

Emporia housing costs

Housing costs in Emporia come to a median of $848 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $815.

Median housing costs per month
$848/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 Emporia
$815/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 Emporia

Emporia education at a glance

About 38.4% of the population in Emporia went to high school, while 27.8% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,053 5.6% -4.0%
High school diploma 7,282 38.4% -0.8%
College diploma 5,271 27.8% 5.0%
Associate degree 1,575 8.3% 2.1%
Bachelor's degree 2,287 12% -0.4%
Graduate degree 1,508 8% -7.7%
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 Emporia

How much people earn in Emporia

The average annual household income in Emporia was $64,281 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,704, reflecting a -0.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Emporia
$64,281/year
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Emporia
$52,704/year
-0.2% year-over-year change

Emporia income by age

In Emporia, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,047. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $69,735 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,973, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,301 in earnings. Overall, 82.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,973 4.4%
25 - 44 $65,047 -2.2%
45 - 64 $69,735 2.1%
Over 65 $49,301 -4.3%
Above poverty level
18,751
Below poverty level
4,084
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,751 82.1% 0.8%
Below poverty level 4,084 17.9% -3.4%

Average renter income in Emporia

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Emporia, their median household income was $34,496 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 28.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$34,496
Rent-to-income ratio
28.4%
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 Emporia

Workforce and job types in Emporia

The job market in Emporia is powered by 13,364 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5% run their own businesses, 70.8% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,364
3.3% year-over-year change
White collar
8,974
Blue collar
4,390
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,974 67.2% 0.6%
Blue collar 4,390 32.8% 9.4%
Employer type
Self employees
5%
Private companies
70.8%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 668 5% 10.1%
Private companies 9,462 70.8% 3.8%
Governmental workers 1,949 14.6% 0.5%
Not for profit companies 1,285 9.6% 0.9%
Unemployment rate
2.0%
-26.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Emporia stands at 2%, 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 Emporia

How people get around in Emporia

Commuting methods vary: 87.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.6% 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 11,245 87.9% 4.6%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0% -91.7%
Motorcycle 36 0.3% 33.3%
Bicycle 68 0.5% 28.3%
Walk 595 4.6% -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 Emporia by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
66801 27,585 11,725 $56,794 $69,351

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FAQs about Emporia demographics 

What is the total population of Emporia?

Emporia has a total population of 24,131 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Emporia?

The gender ratio in Emporia is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (11,681 residents)
  • 51.6% females (12,450 residents)

What is the median age in Emporia?

The median age in Emporia is 30.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Emporia?

The age distribution in Emporia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.7% (4,273 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 24.1% (5,825 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25% (6,028 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19% (4,598 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.1% (3,407 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Emporia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Emporia is as follows:
  • White: 65.4% (15,780 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.8% (443 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (136 residents)
  • Asian: 2.5% (597 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 22.8% (5,503 residents)
  • Other: 6.9% (1,672 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.6% of the population in Emporia.

How many housing units are there in Emporia?

There are 11,538 housing units in Emporia, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Emporia has a total of 10,385 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Emporia?

Emporia has a median household income of $52,704, representing a -0.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 98% in Emporia, with a workforce of 13,364 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.2% (8,974 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.8% (4,390 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5% (668 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.8% (9,462 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (1,949 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.6% (1,285 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