Baton Rouge, LA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
222,771
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$49,994/yr
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
106,712
0.3% year-over-year change

Baton Rouge population

How many people live in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge is home to 222,771 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.4% of Baton Rouge locals are male, and 52.6% are female.

Total population
222,771
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.4%
105,557
Female
52.6%
117,214
Value Percent YoY change
Male 105,557 47.4% -0.5%
Female 117,214 52.6% -0.3%
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 Baton Rouge is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.4% are children under 15, then 22.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 20.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.4%
15 to 24
22.7%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
20.4%
Over 65
14.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 38,776 17.4% 0.5%
15 to 24 50,557 22.7% -0.2%
25 to 44 56,448 25.3% 1.3%
45 to 64 45,406 20.4% -3.2%
Over 65 31,584 14.2% -0.8%
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 Baton Rouge, 92% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 35.8% of locals are Caucasian, 50.4% are African American and 4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.2%
Non-citizens
4.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 204,883 92% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 7,242 3.2% 8.9%
Non-citizens 10,646 4.8% -3.2%
Racial breakdown
White
35.8%
Black or African American
50.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.9%
Other
3.8%
Value Percent
White 79,673 35.8%
Black or African American 112,391 50.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 222 0.1%
Asian 8,809 4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 21 0%
Two or more races 13,115 5.9%
Other 8,540 3.8%

Households in Baton Rouge

A peek inside Baton Rouge households

Baton Rouge has 88,205 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.4% are families, while the remaining 48.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
88,205
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
42,904
Family households
45,301
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 42,904 48.6% 0.7%
Family households 45,301 51.4% 0.7%
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 Baton Rouge

The housing landscape of Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge's housing consists of 106,712 units, with 54.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.2% 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
106,712
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 58,401 54.7%
1 unit, attached 3,405 3.2%
2 units 3,657 3.4%
3 or 4 units 7,626 7.2%
5 to 9 units 6,920 6.5%
10 to 19 units 8,499 8%
20 to 49 units 7,396 6.9%
50 or more units 9,992 9.4%
Mobile home 774 0.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 42 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,116
73.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Baton Rouge

In Baton Rouge, the median construction year is 1976. About 5.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,922 5.6% 0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 6,108 5.7% -5.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 11,895 11.2% -2.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 17,566 16.5% 0.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 20,368 19.1% -0.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 15,021 14.1% 2.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,194 8.6% -0.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 9,786 9.2% 3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 9,736 9.1% -0.9%
Built in 2020 or later 1,116 1% 73.8%
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.

Baton Rouge occupancy rates

Out of the 88,205 occupied housing units in Baton Rouge, 47.8% are owner-occupied, while 52.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
88,205
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
46,054
Owner occupied
42,151
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 46,054 52.2% -1.0%
Owner occupied 42,151 47.8% 2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
17.3%
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.

Baton Rouge housing costs

Housing costs in Baton Rouge come to a median of $1,071 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,067.

Median housing costs per month
$1,071/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 Baton Rouge
$1,067/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 Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge education at a glance

About 32.3% of the population in Baton Rouge went to high school, while 28.7% pursued college studies. Another 4.5% earned an associate degree and 18.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 6,801 3.9% 2.8%
High school diploma 56,879 32.3% -3.0%
College diploma 50,485 28.7% -0.7%
Associate degree 7,870 4.5% 3.0%
Bachelor's degree 31,822 18.1% -0.9%
Graduate degree 22,242 12.6% 3.8%
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 Baton Rouge

How much people earn in Baton Rouge

The average annual household income in Baton Rouge was $84,352 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $49,994, reflecting a +0.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Baton Rouge
$84,352/year
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Baton Rouge
$49,994/year
0.1% year-over-year change

Baton Rouge income by age

In Baton Rouge, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $52,517. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $62,437 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $26,267, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,796 in earnings. Overall, 74.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $26,267 4.4%
25 - 44 $52,517 0.7%
45 - 64 $62,437 3.1%
Over 65 $47,796 -2.3%
Above poverty level
153,851
Below poverty level
53,030
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 153,851 74.4% -1.9%
Below poverty level 53,030 25.6% 2.1%

Average renter income in Baton Rouge

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Baton Rouge, their median household income was $32,231 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$32,231
Rent-to-income ratio
39.7%
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 Baton Rouge

Workforce and job types in Baton Rouge

The job market in Baton Rouge is powered by 99,665 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 64.4% are employed by private companies, and 18.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
99,665
-2.2% year-over-year change
White collar
81,568
Blue collar
18,097
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 81,568 81.8% -1.4%
Blue collar 18,097 18.2% -5.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
64.4%
Governmental workers
18.9%
Not for profit companies
8.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 8,326 8.4% -2.4%
Private companies 64,202 64.4% -2.2%
Governmental workers 18,864 18.9% -2.9%
Not for profit companies 8,273 8.3% 0.6%
Unemployment rate
9.2%
0.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Baton Rouge stands at 9.2%, 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 Baton Rouge

How people get around in Baton Rouge

In Baton Rouge, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
-0.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 82,933 85.1% -3.0%
Taxicab 217 0.2% 185.5%
Bus or trolleybus 1,358 1.4% -11.8%
Motorcycle 2 0% -83.3%
Bicycle 749 0.8% 29.4%
Walk 3,246 3.3% -13.3%
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 Baton Rouge by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
70811 12,154 4,370 $45,523 $62,051
70814 11,921 4,941 $51,529 $59,420
70801 192 180 $115,708 $100,184
70802 25,118 10,013 $34,458 $52,957
70803 3,562 0 $0 $0
70805 23,288 9,021 $25,397 $38,785
70806 28,302 12,180 $55,642 $91,172
70807 15,300 5,410 $27,534 $51,613
70808 35,843 15,931 $69,418 $128,939
70809 25,732 11,537 $79,967 $122,003

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FAQs about Baton Rouge demographics 

What is the total population of Baton Rouge?

Baton Rouge has a total population of 222,771 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 -0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Baton Rouge?

The gender ratio in Baton Rouge is as follows:
  • 47.4% males (105,557 residents)
  • 52.6% females (117,214 residents)

What is the median age in Baton Rouge?

The median age in Baton Rouge is 31.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Baton Rouge?

The age distribution in Baton Rouge is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.4% (38,776 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 22.7% (50,557 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (56,448 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.4% (45,406 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.2% (31,584 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Baton Rouge?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Baton Rouge is as follows:
  • White: 35.8% (79,673 residents)
  • Black or African American: 50.4% (112,391 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (222 residents)
  • Asian: 4% (8,809 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (21 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.9% (13,115 residents)
  • Other: 3.8% (8,540 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92% of the population in Baton Rouge.

How many housing units are there in Baton Rouge?

There are 106,712 housing units in Baton Rouge, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Baton Rouge has a total of 88,205 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Baton Rouge?

Baton Rouge has a median household income of $49,994, representing a +0.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Baton Rouge?

The employment rate is 90.8% in Baton Rouge, with a workforce of 99,665 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.8% (81,568 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.2% (18,097 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (8,326 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.4% (64,202 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.9% (18,864 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.3% (8,273 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