Topeka, KS demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
125,786
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,956/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
59,868
-0.2% year-over-year change

Topeka population

How many people live in Topeka

Topeka is home to 125,786 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of Topeka locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
125,786
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
60,576
Female
51.8%
65,210
Value Percent YoY change
Male 60,576 48.2% 0.4%
Female 65,210 51.8% -0.8%
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 Topeka is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.7% are children under 15, then 13.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.9% of the population, while another 23.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
38
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.7%
15 to 24
13.8%
25 to 44
25.9%
45 to 64
23.2%
Over 65
18.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 23,501 18.7% -0.1%
15 to 24 17,331 13.8% -1.6%
25 to 44 32,610 25.9% 1.5%
45 to 64 29,186 23.2% -3.2%
Over 65 23,158 18.4% 2.0%
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 Topeka, 93.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.3% of locals are Caucasian, 8.9% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 6.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.8%
Non-citizens
3.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 117,847 93.7% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,576 2.8% -4.7%
Non-citizens 4,363 3.5% 1.8%
Racial breakdown
White
69.3%
Black or African American
8.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
12.9%
Other
6.4%
Value Percent
White 87,220 69.3%
Black or African American 11,162 8.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 878 0.7%
Asian 2,158 1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 193 0.2%
Two or more races 16,178 12.9%
Other 7,997 6.4%

Households in Topeka

A peek inside Topeka households

Topeka has 54,837 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.1% are families, while the remaining 45.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
54,837
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
25,154
Family households
29,683
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 25,154 45.9% 2.4%
Family households 29,683 54.1% -0.1%
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 Topeka

The housing landscape of Topeka

Topeka's housing consists of 59,868 units, with 63.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.4% 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 3.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
59,868
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 38,274 63.9%
1 unit, attached 3,252 5.4%
2 units 2,199 3.7%
3 or 4 units 2,461 4.1%
5 to 9 units 2,687 4.5%
10 to 19 units 3,237 5.4%
20 to 49 units 2,709 4.5%
50 or more units 2,855 4.8%
Mobile home 2,099 3.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 95 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
477
135.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Topeka

In Topeka, the median construction year is 1967. About 16.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 9,705 16.2% -6.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,829 6.4% -7.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,848 16.4% 2.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 8,783 14.7% 0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,255 13.8% -7.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7,041 11.8% 7.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,424 9.1% 1.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,333 7.2% 2.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,173 3.6% 11.4%
Built in 2020 or later 477 0.8% 135.0%
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.

Topeka occupancy rates

Out of the 54,837 occupied housing units in Topeka, 59% are owner-occupied, while 41% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
54,837
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
22,495
Owner occupied
32,342
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 22,495 41% 1.4%
Owner occupied 32,342 59% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
8.4%
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.

Topeka housing costs

Housing costs in Topeka come to a median of $956 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $979.

Median housing costs per month
$956/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 Topeka
$979/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 Topeka

Topeka education at a glance

About 38.6% of the population in Topeka went to high school, while 24.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 16.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,001 3.1% 10.0%
High school diploma 37,701 38.6% -0.9%
College diploma 23,595 24.2% 0.3%
Associate degree 7,658 7.8% 1.5%
Bachelor's degree 16,392 16.8% -2.9%
Graduate degree 9,263 9.5% 1.6%
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 Topeka

How much people earn in Topeka

The average annual household income in Topeka was $76,496 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,956, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Topeka
$76,496/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Topeka
$56,956/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Topeka income by age

In Topeka, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,245. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $63,968 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,188, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,409 in earnings. Overall, 84.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,188 -5.7%
25 - 44 $68,245 1.8%
45 - 64 $63,968 2.0%
Over 65 $46,409 1.3%
Above poverty level
101,487
Below poverty level
18,853
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 101,487 84.3% -0.2%
Below poverty level 18,853 15.7% 0.6%

Average renter income in Topeka

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Topeka, their median household income was $39,555 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$39,555
Rent-to-income ratio
29.7%
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 Topeka

Workforce and job types in Topeka

The job market in Topeka is powered by 58,366 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 59.6% are employed by private companies, and 21.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
58,366
-2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
44,601
Blue collar
13,765
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 44,601 76.4% -1.6%
Blue collar 13,765 23.6% -3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
59.6%
Governmental workers
21.1%
Not for profit companies
11.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,300 7.4% 1.7%
Private companies 34,812 59.6% -4.4%
Governmental workers 12,335 21.1% 2.6%
Not for profit companies 6,919 11.8% 0.7%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
-1.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Topeka stands at 4.9%, 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 Topeka

How people get around in Topeka

In Topeka, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
17 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 49,225 85.6% -3.5%
Bus or trolleybus 275 0.5% -47.4%
Motorcycle 67 0.1% -22.1%
Bicycle 47 0.1% 34.3%
Walk 1,084 1.9% -3.5%
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 Topeka by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
66606 9,842 4,610 $57,169 $77,738
66607 9,965 3,527 $29,797 $42,529
66608 4,216 2,053 $49,126 $62,794
66609 7,572 3,528 $67,675 $85,994
66610 9,849 4,017 $132,821 $163,824
66611 9,828 4,553 $55,837 $75,263
66612 1,754 1,143 $26,067 $33,196
66603 1,830 831 $44,688 $57,662
66604 23,006 9,806 $60,874 $79,001
66605 20,891 8,241 $59,106 $76,634

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FAQs about Topeka demographics 

What is the total population of Topeka?

Topeka has a total population of 125,786 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Topeka?

The gender ratio in Topeka is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (60,576 residents)
  • 51.8% females (65,210 residents)

What is the median age in Topeka?

The median age in Topeka is 38.

What is the age distribution of the population in Topeka?

The age distribution in Topeka is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.7% (23,501 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.8% (17,331 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.9% (32,610 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.2% (29,186 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.4% (23,158 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Topeka?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Topeka is as follows:
  • White: 69.3% (87,220 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.9% (11,162 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (878 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (2,158 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (193 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.9% (16,178 residents)
  • Other: 6.4% (7,997 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.7% of the population in Topeka.

How many housing units are there in Topeka?

There are 59,868 housing units in Topeka, reflecting a -0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Topeka has a total of 54,837 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Topeka?

Topeka has a median household income of $56,956, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.1% in Topeka, with a workforce of 58,366 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.4% (44,601 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.6% (13,765 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (4,300 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.6% (34,812 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.1% (12,335 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.8% (6,919 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