Missouri demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,191,814
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,702/yr
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,825,287
0.6% year-over-year change

Missouri population

How many people live in Missouri

Missouri is home to 6,191,814 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Missouri locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
6,191,814
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
3,052,444
Female
50.7%
3,139,370
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,052,444 49.3% 0.4%
Female 3,139,370 50.7% 0.4%
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 Missouri is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 13.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26% of the population, while another 24.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
13.1%
25 to 44
26%
45 to 64
24.6%
Over 65
17.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,135,263 18.3% -0.6%
15 to 24 813,436 13.1% 0.5%
25 to 44 1,609,113 26% 0.8%
45 to 64 1,526,259 24.6% -1.0%
Over 65 1,107,743 17.9% 2.6%
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 Missouri, 94.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77.5% of locals are Caucasian, 11% are African American and 2.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.1%
Non-citizens
2.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,864,613 94.7% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 190,019 3.1% 1.6%
Non-citizens 137,182 2.2% 3.5%
Racial breakdown
White
77.5%
Black or African American
11%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
2.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7.1%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 4,799,142 77.5%
Black or African American 679,534 11%
American Indian and Alaska Native 17,594 0.3%
Asian 132,185 2.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 8,936 0.1%
Two or more races 439,836 7.1%
Other 114,587 1.8%

Households in Missouri

A peek inside Missouri households

Missouri has 2,508,227 households, with an average of 2 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
2,508,227
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
950,218
Family households
1,558,009
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 950,218 37.9% 1.9%
Family households 1,558,009 62.1% 0.4%
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 Missouri

The housing landscape of Missouri

Missouri's housing consists of 2,825,287 units, with 70.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.7% 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 5.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,825,287
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,990,446 70.4%
1 unit, attached 103,475 3.7%
2 units 90,556 3.2%
3 or 4 units 129,236 4.6%
5 to 9 units 103,028 3.6%
10 to 19 units 95,836 3.4%
20 to 49 units 67,765 2.4%
50 or more units 95,392 3.4%
Mobile home 145,584 5.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 3,969 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
44,101
71.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Missouri

In Missouri, the median construction year is 1978. About 13.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 375,257 13.3% -0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 122,321 4.3% -1.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 276,990 9.8% 0.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 309,780 11% -0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 405,730 14.4% -1.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 333,728 11.8% -0.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 361,841 12.8% -3.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 368,338 13% 1.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 227,201 8% 6.6%
Built in 2020 or later 44,101 1.6% 71.8%
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.

Missouri occupancy rates

Out of the 2,508,227 occupied housing units in Missouri, 68.1% are owner-occupied, while 31.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,508,227
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
799,814
Owner occupied
1,708,413
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 799,814 31.9% 0.4%
Owner occupied 1,708,413 68.1% 1.2%
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.

Missouri housing costs

Housing costs in Missouri come to a median of $1,063 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,033.

Median housing costs per month
$1,063/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 Missouri
$1,033/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 Missouri

Missouri education at a glance

About 36.8% of the population in Missouri went to high school, while 22.4% pursued college studies. Another 8.2% earned an associate degree and 18.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 122,103 2.5% 0.3%
High school diploma 1,771,968 36.8% 0.0%
College diploma 1,076,980 22.4% -1.1%
Associate degree 394,250 8.2% 2.2%
Bachelor's degree 904,997 18.8% 1.9%
Graduate degree 538,837 11.2% 2.5%
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 Missouri

How much people earn in Missouri

The average annual household income in Missouri was $96,247 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $70,702, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Missouri
$96,247/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Missouri
$70,702/year
2.6% year-over-year change

Missouri income by age

In Missouri, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,154. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $85,386 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,951, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,285 in earnings. Overall, 87.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,951 4.7%
25 - 44 $81,154 2.8%
45 - 64 $85,386 3.2%
Over 65 $52,285 2.7%
Above poverty level
5,208,667
Below poverty level
745,883
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,208,667 87.5% 0.5%
Below poverty level 745,883 12.5% 0.2%

Employment in Missouri

Workforce and job types in Missouri

The job market in Missouri is powered by 2,995,281 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 13.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,995,281
0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
2,302,164
Blue collar
693,117
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,302,164 76.9% 0.9%
Blue collar 693,117 23.1% -0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
13.2%
Not for profit companies
10.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 275,805 9.2% 1.8%
Private companies 2,014,030 67.2% 0.3%
Governmental workers 394,048 13.2% 1.7%
Not for profit companies 311,398 10.4% 1.0%
Unemployment rate
4.0%
-1.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Missouri stands at 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 Missouri

How people get around in Missouri

In Missouri, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
-0.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,455,770 83% -1.0%
Taxicab 4,862 0.2% 53.6%
Bus or trolleybus 21,463 0.7% -1.4%
Subway or elevated 1,686 0.1% N/A
Railroad 682 0% 28.2%
Ferryboat 192 0% 17.1%
Motorcycle 3,650 0.1% 3.0%
Bicycle 5,647 0.2% 0.5%
Walk 52,097 1.8% -0.6%
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.

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FAQs about Missouri demographics 

What is the total population of Missouri?

Missouri has a total population of 6,191,814 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 Missouri?

The gender ratio in Missouri is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (3,052,444 residents)
  • 50.7% females (3,139,370 residents)

What is the median age in Missouri?

The median age in Missouri is 39.

What is the age distribution of the population in Missouri?

The age distribution in Missouri is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (1,135,263 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.1% (813,436 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26% (1,609,113 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.6% (1,526,259 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.9% (1,107,743 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Missouri?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Missouri is as follows:
  • White: 77.5% (4,799,142 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11% (679,534 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (17,594 residents)
  • Asian: 2.1% (132,185 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (8,936 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.1% (439,836 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (114,587 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.7% of the population in Missouri.

How many housing units are there in Missouri?

There are 2,825,287 housing units in Missouri, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Missouri has a total of 2,508,227 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Missouri?

Missouri has a median household income of $70,702, representing a +2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96% in Missouri, with a workforce of 2,995,281 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.9% (2,302,164 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.1% (693,117 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (275,805 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (2,014,030 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.2% (394,048 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.4% (311,398 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