La Plata, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,683
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$121,208/yr
-0.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,201
6.1% year-over-year change

LA Plata population

How many people live in LA Plata

LA Plata is home to 10,683 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of LA Plata locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
10,683
2.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
5,227
Female
51.1%
5,456
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,227 48.9% 0.8%
Female 5,456 51.1% 3.3%
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 LA Plata is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.8% are children under 15, then 16% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.5% of the population, while another 28.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.8%
15 to 24
16%
25 to 44
22.5%
45 to 64
28.2%
Over 65
17.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,693 15.8% 6.1%
15 to 24 1,708 16% 1.7%
25 to 44 2,401 22.5% 2.5%
45 to 64 3,010 28.2% -4.1%
Over 65 1,871 17.5% 9.2%
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 LA Plata, 89.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 47.7% of locals are Caucasian, 36.2% are African American and 3.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.8% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.2%
Non-citizens
4.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,545 89.4% 3.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 666 6.2% -18.1%
Non-citizens 472 4.4% 0.8%
Racial breakdown
White
47.7%
Black or African American
36.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
3.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
10.3%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 5,100 47.7%
Black or African American 3,871 36.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 86 0.8%
Asian 355 3.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6 0.1%
Two or more races 1,098 10.3%
Other 167 1.6%

Households in LA Plata

A peek inside LA Plata households

LA Plata has 3,941 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 62.1% are families, while the remaining 37.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,941
7.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,494
Family households
2,447
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,494 37.9% 18.0%
Family households 2,447 62.1% 2.0%
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 LA Plata

The housing landscape of LA Plata

LA Plata's housing consists of 4,201 units, with 48.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 34.3% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
4,201
6.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,050 48.8%
1 unit, attached 1,441 34.3%
2 units 20 0.5%
3 or 4 units 36 0.9%
5 to 9 units 73 1.7%
10 to 19 units 186 4.4%
20 to 49 units 32 0.8%
50 or more units 363 8.6%
Homes built since 2020
301
584.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in LA Plata

In LA Plata, the median construction year is 1995. About 0.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 7.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 15 0.4% 87.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 108 2.6% 227.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 60 1.4% -50.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 113 2.7% -24.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 317 7.6% 24.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,166 27.8% -7.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 603 14.4% -16.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 878 20.9% 9.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 640 15.2% 11.3%
Built in 2020 or later 301 7.2% 584.1%
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.

LA Plata occupancy rates

Out of the 3,941 occupied housing units in LA Plata, 80.4% are owner-occupied, while 19.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,941
7.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
774
Owner occupied
3,167
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 774 19.6% -6.2%
Owner occupied 3,167 80.4% 11.5%
Unoccupied housing units
6.2%
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.

LA Plata housing costs

Housing costs in LA Plata come to a median of $2,011 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,559.

Median housing costs per month
$2,011/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 LA Plata
$1,559/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 LA Plata

LA Plata education at a glance

About 32.2% of the population in LA Plata went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.8% earned an associate degree and 19.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 81 1% -70.4%
High school diploma 2,758 32.2% 10.3%
College diploma 1,932 22.6% -4.5%
Associate degree 922 10.8% 2.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,698 19.8% -0.2%
Graduate degree 1,178 13.8% 12.1%
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 LA Plata

How much people earn in LA Plata

The average annual household income in LA Plata was $147,163 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $121,208, reflecting a -0.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in LA Plata
$147,163/year
7.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in LA Plata
$121,208/year
-0.4% year-over-year change

LA Plata income by age

In LA Plata, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $125,938. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $174,188 overall. Overall, 93.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $125,938 -7.1%
45 - 64 $174,188 17.6%
Over 65 $71,174 12.7%
Above poverty level
9,457
Below poverty level
672
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,457 93.4% -0.7%
Below poverty level 672 6.6% 92.5%

Average renter income in LA Plata

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in LA Plata, their median household income was $55,268 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$55,268
Rent-to-income ratio
33.8%
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 LA Plata

Workforce and job types in LA Plata

The job market in LA Plata is powered by 5,457 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 88.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 3% run their own businesses, 52.5% are employed by private companies, and 34.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,457
4.1% year-over-year change
White collar
4,837
Blue collar
620
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,837 88.6% 5.8%
Blue collar 620 11.4% -7.3%
Employer type
Self employees
3%
Private companies
52.5%
Governmental workers
34.2%
Not for profit companies
10.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 161 3% -13.4%
Private companies 2,865 52.5% 3.5%
Governmental workers 1,864 34.2% 7.8%
Not for profit companies 567 10.4% 1.6%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
10.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in LA Plata 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 LA Plata

How people get around in LA Plata

Commuting methods vary: 77.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,284 77.8% 1.6%
Bus or trolleybus 86 1.6% -5.5%
Subway or elevated 67 1.2% N/A
Bicycle 1 0% N/A
Walk 29 0.5% -19.4%
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 LA Plata by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
20646 21,400 7,756 $131,974 $152,997

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FAQs about LA Plata demographics 

What is the total population of LA Plata?

LA Plata has a total population of 10,683 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 +2.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in LA Plata?

The gender ratio in LA Plata is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (5,227 residents)
  • 51.1% females (5,456 residents)

What is the median age in LA Plata?

The median age in LA Plata is 41.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in LA Plata?

The age distribution in LA Plata is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.8% (1,693 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16% (1,708 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.5% (2,401 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.2% (3,010 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.5% (1,871 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of LA Plata?

The racial and ethnic makeup of LA Plata is as follows:
  • White: 47.7% (5,100 residents)
  • Black or African American: 36.2% (3,871 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (86 residents)
  • Asian: 3.3% (355 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (6 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.3% (1,098 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (167 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.4% of the population in LA Plata.

How many housing units are there in LA Plata?

There are 4,201 housing units in LA Plata, reflecting a +6.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

LA Plata has a total of 3,941 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in LA Plata?

LA Plata has a median household income of $121,208, representing a -0.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for LA Plata?

The employment rate is 96.6% in LA Plata, with a workforce of 5,457 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88.6% (4,837 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11.4% (620 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 3% (161 residents)
  • Private companies: 52.5% (2,865 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 34.2% (1,864 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.4% (567 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