Ruston, LA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
22,284
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$31,120/yr
-5.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,563
3.0% year-over-year change

Ruston population

How many people live in Ruston

Ruston is home to 22,284 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Ruston locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
22,284
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
11,052
Female
50.4%
11,232
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,052 49.6% 0.2%
Female 11,232 50.4% 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 Ruston is 24, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.9% are children under 15, then 39.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.3% of the population, while another 15% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
24.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.9%
15 to 24
39.6%
25 to 44
21.3%
45 to 64
15%
Over 65
12.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,652 11.9% -10.2%
15 to 24 8,835 39.6% 0.0%
25 to 44 4,756 21.3% -0.1%
45 to 64 3,337 15% 6.7%
Over 65 2,704 12.1% 6.0%
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 Ruston, 95.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 47.7% of locals are Caucasian, 43.2% are African American and 2% have Asian roots. Another 1.7% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.9%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,327 95.7% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 652 2.9% 10.1%
Non-citizens 305 1.4% 69.4%
Racial breakdown
White
47.7%
Black or African American
43.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.7%
Asian
2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 10,622 47.7%
Black or African American 9,637 43.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 372 1.7%
Asian 443 2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 33 0.2%
Two or more races 1,024 4.6%
Other 153 0.7%

Households in Ruston

A peek inside Ruston households

Ruston has 8,796 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 45.6% are families, while the remaining 54.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,796
3.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,782
Family households
4,014
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,782 54.4% 5.8%
Family households 4,014 45.6% 1.5%
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 Ruston

The housing landscape of Ruston

Ruston's housing consists of 9,563 units, with 53.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 4.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,563
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,085 53.2%
1 unit, attached 189 2%
2 units 947 9.9%
3 or 4 units 931 9.7%
5 to 9 units 987 10.3%
10 to 19 units 514 5.4%
20 to 49 units 225 2.4%
50 or more units 142 1.5%
Mobile home 466 4.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 77 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
73
461.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ruston

In Ruston, the median construction year is 1983. About 0.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.1% 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, 11.7% 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 77 0.8% -10.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 200 2.1% 86.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 641 6.7% 10.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,180 12.3% 31.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,104 22% 15.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,845 19.3% -4.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,443 15.1% -12.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 878 9.2% -9.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,122 11.7% -8.5%
Built in 2020 or later 73 0.8% 461.5%
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.

Ruston occupancy rates

Out of the 8,796 occupied housing units in Ruston, 36.2% are owner-occupied, while 63.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,796
3.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,610
Owner occupied
3,186
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,610 63.8% 4.6%
Owner occupied 3,186 36.2% 2.4%
Unoccupied housing units
8.0%
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.

Ruston housing costs

Housing costs in Ruston come to a median of $801 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $816.

Median housing costs per month
$801/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 Ruston
$816/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 Ruston

Ruston education at a glance

About 28% of the population in Ruston went to high school, while 42.5% pursued college studies. Another 3.5% earned an associate degree and 16.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 103 0.5% -43.7%
High school diploma 5,356 28% 8.4%
College diploma 8,125 42.5% 1.7%
Associate degree 668 3.5% 0.8%
Bachelor's degree 3,078 16.1% -5.4%
Graduate degree 1,769 9.3% -0.4%
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 Ruston

How much people earn in Ruston

The average annual household income in Ruston was $52,757 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $31,120, reflecting a -5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ruston
$52,757/year
-4.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ruston
$31,120/year
-5.0% year-over-year change

Ruston income by age

In Ruston, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $35,742. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $42,305 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $13,104, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,184 in earnings. Overall, 60% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $13,104 -17.1%
25 - 44 $35,742 -1.2%
45 - 64 $42,305 -17.4%
Over 65 $37,184 1.9%
Above poverty level
11,777
Below poverty level
7,834
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,777 60% -4.4%
Below poverty level 7,834 40% 10.8%

Average renter income in Ruston

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Ruston, their median household income was $24,786 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,786
Rent-to-income ratio
39.5%
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 Ruston

Workforce and job types in Ruston

The job market in Ruston is powered by 8,575 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.4% run their own businesses, 51.3% are employed by private companies, and 31.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,575
-11.3% year-over-year change
White collar
7,275
Blue collar
1,300
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,275 84.8% -10.1%
Blue collar 1,300 15.2% -17.7%
Employer type
Self employees
10.4%
Private companies
51.3%
Governmental workers
31.5%
Not for profit companies
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 889 10.4% -0.2%
Private companies 4,396 51.3% -17.6%
Governmental workers 2,702 31.5% -4.1%
Not for profit companies 588 6.9% -5.8%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
-11.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ruston stands at 3.4%, 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 Ruston

How people get around in Ruston

In Ruston, the average commute time is 15 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 80% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
15 min
7.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,630 80% -14.3%
Bicycle 18 0.2% 28.6%
Walk 389 4.7% -1.5%
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 Ruston by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
71270 32,885 13,042 $36,791 $62,705
71272 1,969 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about Ruston demographics 

What is the total population of Ruston?

Ruston has a total population of 22,284 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Ruston?

The gender ratio in Ruston is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (11,052 residents)
  • 50.4% females (11,232 residents)

What is the median age in Ruston?

The median age in Ruston is 24.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Ruston?

The age distribution in Ruston is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.9% (2,652 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 39.6% (8,835 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.3% (4,756 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 15% (3,337 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.1% (2,704 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ruston?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ruston is as follows:
  • White: 47.7% (10,622 residents)
  • Black or African American: 43.2% (9,637 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.7% (372 residents)
  • Asian: 2% (443 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (33 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (1,024 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (153 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.7% of the population in Ruston.

How many housing units are there in Ruston?

There are 9,563 housing units in Ruston, reflecting a +3.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ruston has a total of 8,796 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ruston?

Ruston has a median household income of $31,120, representing a -5.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.6% in Ruston, with a workforce of 8,575 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.8% (7,275 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.2% (1,300 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.4% (889 residents)
  • Private companies: 51.3% (4,396 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 31.5% (2,702 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.9% (588 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