Lower Ninth Ward, New Orleans, LA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,893
-2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$45,764/yr
9.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,162
-2.1% year-over-year change

Lower Ninth Ward population

How many people live in Lower Ninth Ward

Lower Ninth Ward is home to 6,893 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of Lower Ninth Ward locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
6,893
-2.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
3,326
Female
51.8%
3,567
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,326 48.2% -2.4%
Female 3,567 51.8% -2.1%
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 Lower Ninth Ward is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.4% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 34.9% of the population, while another 26.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.4%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
34.9%
45 to 64
26.2%
Over 65
14.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 992 14.4% -7.6%
15 to 24 682 9.9% -3.5%
25 to 44 2,404 34.9% -0.3%
45 to 64 1,802 26.2% -2.6%
Over 65 1,012 14.7% 0.1%
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 Lower Ninth Ward, 94.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 31.4% of locals are Caucasian, 59.4% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.8%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,493 94.2% -2.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 195 2.8% -10.6%
Non-citizens 206 3% 24.9%
Racial breakdown
White
31.4%
Black or African American
59.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
5.9%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 2,167 31.4%
Black or African American 4,095 59.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5 0.1%
Asian 41 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 15 0.2%
Two or more races 405 5.9%
Other 165 2.4%

Households in Lower Ninth Ward

A peek inside Lower Ninth Ward households

Lower Ninth Ward has 3,165 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 44.5% are families, while the remaining 55.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,165
-0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,756
Family households
1,409
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,756 55.5% -5.3%
Family households 1,409 44.5% 5.2%
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 Lower Ninth Ward

The housing landscape of Lower Ninth Ward

Lower Ninth Ward's housing consists of 4,162 units, with 50.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 13.6% 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 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,162
-2.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,089 50.2%
1 unit, attached 565 13.6%
2 units 932 22.4%
3 or 4 units 271 6.5%
5 to 9 units 58 1.4%
10 to 19 units 19 0.5%
20 to 49 units 89 2.1%
50 or more units 104 2.5%
Mobile home 33 0.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
54
54.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lower Ninth Ward

In Lower Ninth Ward, the median construction year is 1948. About 45.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,888 45.4% 1.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 255 6.1% -13.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 664 16% -17.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 294 7.1% 5.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 247 5.9% 1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 92 2.2% 5.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 78 1.9% 30.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 354 8.5% 0.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 236 5.7% 0.8%
Built in 2020 or later 54 1.3% 54.3%
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.

Lower Ninth Ward occupancy rates

Out of the 3,165 occupied housing units in Lower Ninth Ward, 52.2% are owner-occupied, while 47.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 24% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,165
-0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,512
Owner occupied
1,653
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,512 47.8% -9.8%
Owner occupied 1,653 52.2% 9.0%
Unoccupied housing units
24.0%
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.

Lower Ninth Ward housing costs

Housing costs in Lower Ninth Ward come to a median of $1,261 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,269.

Median housing costs per month
$1,261/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 Lower Ninth Ward
$1,269/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 Lower Ninth Ward

Lower Ninth Ward education at a glance

About 34.6% of the population in Lower Ninth Ward went to high school, while 23% pursued college studies. Another 4.5% earned an associate degree and 19.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 237 4.2% -3.7%
High school diploma 1,938 34.6% -2.0%
College diploma 1,288 23% -6.3%
Associate degree 250 4.5% 0.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,106 19.7% -2.7%
Graduate degree 784 14% 6.5%
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 Lower Ninth Ward

How much people earn in Lower Ninth Ward

The average annual household income in Lower Ninth Ward was $71,459 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $45,764, reflecting a +9.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lower Ninth Ward
$71,459/year
6.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lower Ninth Ward
$45,764/year
9.9% year-over-year change

Lower Ninth Ward income by age

In Lower Ninth Ward, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,637. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $44,708 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $30,433, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $29,394 in earnings. Overall, 74.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $30,433 38.6%
25 - 44 $61,637 10.3%
45 - 64 $44,708 12.2%
Over 65 $29,394 -7.8%
Above poverty level
5,080
Below poverty level
1,776
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,080 74.1% 0.8%
Below poverty level 1,776 25.9% -7.8%

Employment in Lower Ninth Ward

Workforce and job types in Lower Ninth Ward

85.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.9% run their own businesses, 60.3% are employed by private companies, and 12.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
2,797
Blue collar
490
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,797 85.1% -0.0%
Blue collar 490 14.9% -7.0%
Employer type
Self employees
14.9%
Private companies
60.3%
Governmental workers
12.1%
Not for profit companies
12.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 490 14.9% 4.7%
Private companies 1,984 60.3% -2.3%
Governmental workers 398 12.1% -2.9%
Not for profit companies 417 12.7% -0.2%

Transportation in Lower Ninth Ward

How people get around in Lower Ninth Ward

In Lower Ninth Ward, the average commute time is 7 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 77% 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.

Commute time
7 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,992 77% -5.0%
Taxicab 55 2.1% 61.8%
Bus or trolleybus 189 7.3% 3.9%
Motorcycle 19 0.7% -13.6%
Bicycle 213 8.2% -13.4%
Walk 120 4.6% 1.7%
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 Lower Ninth Ward by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
70117 25,652 11,779 $45,764 $71,622

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FAQs about Lower Ninth Ward demographics 

What is the total population of Lower Ninth Ward?

Lower Ninth Ward has a total population of 6,893 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 -2.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lower Ninth Ward?

The gender ratio in Lower Ninth Ward is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (3,326 residents)
  • 51.8% females (3,567 residents)

What is the median age in Lower Ninth Ward?

The median age in Lower Ninth Ward is 39.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lower Ninth Ward?

The age distribution in Lower Ninth Ward is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.4% (992 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (682 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 34.9% (2,404 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.2% (1,802 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.7% (1,012 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lower Ninth Ward?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lower Ninth Ward is as follows:
  • White: 31.4% (2,167 residents)
  • Black or African American: 59.4% (4,095 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (5 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (41 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (15 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.9% (405 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (165 residents)

What percentage of the population in Lower Ninth Ward are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.2% of the population in Lower Ninth Ward.

How many housing units are there in Lower Ninth Ward?

There are 4,162 housing units in Lower Ninth Ward, reflecting a -2.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Lower Ninth Ward and what is the average household size?

Lower Ninth Ward has a total of 3,165 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lower Ninth Ward?

Lower Ninth Ward has a median household income of $45,764, representing a +9.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Lower Ninth Ward?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.1% (2,797 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.9% (490 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.9% (490 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.3% (1,984 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.1% (398 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.7% (417 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