Ponchatoula, LA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
7,808
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,161/yr
7.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,884
5.6% year-over-year change

Ponchatoula population

How many people live in Ponchatoula

Ponchatoula is home to 7,808 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.2% of Ponchatoula locals are male, and 53.8% are female.

Total population
7,808
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.2%
3,606
Female
53.8%
4,202
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,606 46.2% 0.1%
Female 4,202 53.8% -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 Ponchatoula is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 8.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.6% of the population, while another 29.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
44
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
8.7%
25 to 44
24.6%
45 to 64
29.8%
Over 65
18.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,419 18.2% -3.7%
15 to 24 676 8.7% 35.7%
25 to 44 1,921 24.6% -8.5%
45 to 64 2,324 29.8% 1.9%
Over 65 1,468 18.8% -1.3%
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 Ponchatoula, 97.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 61.9% of locals are Caucasian, 31.9% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,631 97.7% 0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 124 1.6% -35.4%
Non-citizens 53 0.7% -36.9%
Racial breakdown
White
61.9%
Black or African American
31.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3%
Other
2.1%
Value Percent
White 4,836 61.9%
Black or African American 2,489 31.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 13 0.2%
Asian 72 0.9%
Two or more races 234 3%
Other 164 2.1%

Households in Ponchatoula

A peek inside Ponchatoula households

Ponchatoula has 3,449 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.5% are families, while the remaining 45.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,449
4.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,570
Family households
1,879
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,570 45.5% 23.3%
Family households 1,879 54.5% -8.1%
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 Ponchatoula

The housing landscape of Ponchatoula

Ponchatoula's housing consists of 3,884 units, with 74.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.4% 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 10.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,884
5.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,903 74.7%
1 unit, attached 170 4.4%
2 units 173 4.4%
3 or 4 units 190 4.9%
5 to 9 units 16 0.4%
20 to 49 units 12 0.3%
Mobile home 420 10.8%
Homes built since 2020
0
-100.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ponchatoula

In Ponchatoula, the median construction year is 1988. About 4.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 177 4.6% 27.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 120 3.1% -51.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 223 5.7% 33.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 358 9.2% 53.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 643 16.6% 10.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 518 13.3% 44.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 206 5.3% -5.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 918 23.6% -12.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 721 18.6% 14.3%
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.

Ponchatoula occupancy rates

Out of the 3,449 occupied housing units in Ponchatoula, 76% are owner-occupied, while 24% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,449
4.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
828
Owner occupied
2,621
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 828 24% 10.1%
Owner occupied 2,621 76% 2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
11.2%
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.

Ponchatoula housing costs

Housing costs in Ponchatoula come to a median of $789 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $762.

Median housing costs per month
$789/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 Ponchatoula
$762/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 Ponchatoula

Ponchatoula education at a glance

About 43.8% of the population in Ponchatoula went to high school, while 16.9% pursued college studies. Another 12.4% earned an associate degree and 18% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 186 3% -32.4%
High school diploma 2,674 43.8% -9.8%
College diploma 1,031 16.9% -5.3%
Associate degree 756 12.4% 38.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,097 18% 9.9%
Graduate degree 358 5.9% 13.3%
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 Ponchatoula

How much people earn in Ponchatoula

The average annual household income in Ponchatoula was $73,967 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,161, reflecting a +7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ponchatoula
$73,967/year
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ponchatoula
$51,161/year
7.0% year-over-year change

Ponchatoula income by age

In Ponchatoula, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,173. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,822 overall. Overall, 85.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $77,173 -18.8%
45 - 64 $61,822 32.4%
Over 65 $22,019 2.8%
Above poverty level
6,558
Below poverty level
1,101
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,558 85.6% 4.7%
Below poverty level 1,101 14.4% -23.5%

Employment in Ponchatoula

Workforce and job types in Ponchatoula

The job market in Ponchatoula is powered by 3,096 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.1% run their own businesses, 73.9% are employed by private companies, and 10.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,096
10.8% year-over-year change
White collar
2,220
Blue collar
876
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,220 71.7% 7.4%
Blue collar 876 28.3% 20.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7.1%
Private companies
73.9%
Governmental workers
10.6%
Not for profit companies
8.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 220 7.1% -33.1%
Private companies 2,287 73.9% 9.7%
Governmental workers 328 10.6% 53.3%
Not for profit companies 261 8.4% 55.4%
Unemployment rate
2.3%
43.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ponchatoula stands at 2.3%, 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 Ponchatoula

How people get around in Ponchatoula

In Ponchatoula, the average commute time is 33 minutes.

Commute time
33 min
4.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,555 82.6% 7.6%
Motorcycle 48 1.6% N/A
Bicycle 2 0.1% 0.0%
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 Ponchatoula by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
70454 34,564 13,278 $71,611 $94,348

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FAQs about Ponchatoula demographics 

What is the total population of Ponchatoula?

Ponchatoula has a total population of 7,808 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 Ponchatoula?

The gender ratio in Ponchatoula is as follows:
  • 46.2% males (3,606 residents)
  • 53.8% females (4,202 residents)

What is the median age in Ponchatoula?

The median age in Ponchatoula is 44.

What is the age distribution of the population in Ponchatoula?

The age distribution in Ponchatoula is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (1,419 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.7% (676 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.6% (1,921 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.8% (2,324 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.8% (1,468 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ponchatoula?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ponchatoula is as follows:
  • White: 61.9% (4,836 residents)
  • Black or African American: 31.9% (2,489 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (13 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (72 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3% (234 residents)
  • Other: 2.1% (164 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.7% of the population in Ponchatoula.

How many housing units are there in Ponchatoula?

There are 3,884 housing units in Ponchatoula, reflecting a +5.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ponchatoula has a total of 3,449 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ponchatoula?

Ponchatoula has a median household income of $51,161, representing a +7.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.7% in Ponchatoula, with a workforce of 3,096 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.7% (2,220 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.3% (876 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.1% (220 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.9% (2,287 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.6% (328 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.4% (261 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