Clay County, MO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
258,122
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$88,468/yr
2.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
107,719
1.0% year-over-year change

Clay County population

How many people live in Clay County

Clay County is home to 258,122 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Clay County locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
258,122
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
127,694
Female
50.5%
130,428
Value Percent YoY change
Male 127,694 49.5% 1.1%
Female 130,428 50.5% 0.9%
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 Clay County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.3% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.6% of the population, while another 24.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.3%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
28.6%
45 to 64
24.8%
Over 65
15.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 49,787 19.3% -0.4%
15 to 24 31,175 12.1% 1.1%
25 to 44 73,800 28.6% 1.0%
45 to 64 63,930 24.8% 0.5%
Over 65 39,430 15.3% 3.6%
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 Clay County, 93.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.2% of locals are Caucasian, 7% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.3%
Non-citizens
2.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 241,739 93.6% 0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 11,001 4.3% 2.1%
Non-citizens 5,382 2.1% 3.3%
Racial breakdown
White
79.2%
Black or African American
7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
7.8%
Other
2.7%
Value Percent
White 204,377 79.2%
Black or African American 18,039 7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,046 0.4%
Asian 6,676 2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 758 0.3%
Two or more races 20,197 7.8%
Other 7,029 2.7%

Households in Clay County

A peek inside Clay County households

Clay County has 102,171 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.2% are families, while the remaining 34.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
102,171
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
35,526
Family households
66,645
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 35,526 34.8% 4.7%
Family households 66,645 65.2% -0.7%
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 Clay County

The housing landscape of Clay County

Clay County's housing consists of 107,719 units, with 71% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.9% 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 1.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
107,719
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 76,539 71%
1 unit, attached 5,241 4.9%
2 units 2,116 2%
3 or 4 units 3,416 3.2%
5 to 9 units 5,210 4.8%
10 to 19 units 5,791 5.4%
20 to 49 units 3,794 3.5%
50 or more units 3,669 3.4%
Mobile home 1,930 1.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 13 0%
Homes built since 2020
2,467
52.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Clay County

In Clay County, the median construction year is 1987. About 4.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,662 4.3% 5.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,921 3.6% -7.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 11,050 10.3% 3.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 12,717 11.8% -1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 13,080 12.1% 2.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 12,255 11.4% -1.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 15,060 14% -1.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 19,292 17.9% -0.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 13,215 12.3% 2.7%
Built in 2020 or later 2,467 2.3% 52.6%
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.

Clay County occupancy rates

Out of the 102,171 occupied housing units in Clay County, 69.5% are owner-occupied, while 30.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
102,171
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
31,172
Owner occupied
70,999
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 31,172 30.5% -0.8%
Owner occupied 70,999 69.5% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
5.2%
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.

Clay County housing costs

Housing costs in Clay County come to a median of $1,341 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,243.

Median housing costs per month
$1,341/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 Clay County
$1,243/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 Clay County

Clay County education at a glance

About 32.8% of the population in Clay County went to high school, while 22.8% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 22.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,631 1.8% 13.5%
High school diploma 64,798 32.8% 2.2%
College diploma 44,907 22.8% -1.8%
Associate degree 16,499 8.4% -4.3%
Bachelor's degree 44,735 22.7% 2.9%
Graduate degree 22,807 11.6% 4.9%
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 Clay County

How much people earn in Clay County

The average annual household income in Clay County was $108,962 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $88,468, reflecting a +2.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Clay County
$108,962/year
3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Clay County
$88,468/year
2.7% year-over-year change

Clay County income by age

In Clay County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $97,660. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $104,899 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,712, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $57,117 in earnings. Overall, 91.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,712 -5.4%
25 - 44 $97,660 2.4%
45 - 64 $104,899 2.7%
Over 65 $57,117 -1.2%
Above poverty level
230,871
Below poverty level
21,201
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 230,871 91.6% 1.0%
Below poverty level 21,201 8.4% 0.3%

Employment in Clay County

Workforce and job types in Clay County

The job market in Clay County is powered by 135,672 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.2% run their own businesses, 69.5% are employed by private companies, and 13.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
135,672
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
104,608
Blue collar
31,064
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 104,608 77.1% 1.4%
Blue collar 31,064 22.9% -1.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7.2%
Private companies
69.5%
Governmental workers
13.6%
Not for profit companies
9.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 9,736 7.2% 0.9%
Private companies 94,279 69.5% 0.2%
Governmental workers 18,485 13.6% 5.4%
Not for profit companies 13,172 9.7% -1.2%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-2.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Clay County stands at 3.8%, 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 Clay County

How people get around in Clay County

Commuting methods vary: 81.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% 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 109,187 81.7% -1.7%
Taxicab 202 0.2% 119.6%
Bus or trolleybus 199 0.2% -17.8%
Ferryboat 11 0% -21.4%
Motorcycle 215 0.2% -14.7%
Bicycle 200 0.2% 63.9%
Walk 1,137 0.8% 7.7%
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 Clay County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
64116 18,046 8,753 $64,123 $89,832
64117 14,919 6,369 $59,601 $68,452
64118 41,984 17,772 $74,740 $85,905
64024 15,574 5,662 $77,895 $86,640
64048 4,387 1,517 $103,131 $128,302
64060 16,488 6,439 $112,683 $136,750
64062 6,968 2,369 $92,277 $123,455
64068 37,758 14,220 $92,297 $106,887
64072 205 113 $37,917 $68,946
64089 14,380 5,536 $101,009 $120,435

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FAQs about Clay County demographics 

What is the total population of Clay County?

Clay County has a total population of 258,122 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Clay County?

The gender ratio in Clay County is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (127,694 residents)
  • 50.5% females (130,428 residents)

What is the median age in Clay County?

The median age in Clay County is 37.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Clay County?

The age distribution in Clay County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.3% (49,787 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (31,175 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.6% (73,800 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.8% (63,930 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.3% (39,430 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Clay County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Clay County is as follows:
  • White: 79.2% (204,377 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7% (18,039 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (1,046 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (6,676 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (758 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.8% (20,197 residents)
  • Other: 2.7% (7,029 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.6% of the population in Clay County.

How many housing units are there in Clay County?

There are 107,719 housing units in Clay County, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Clay County has a total of 102,171 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Clay County?

Clay County has a median household income of $88,468, representing a +2.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Clay County?

The employment rate is 96.2% in Clay County, with a workforce of 135,672 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.1% (104,608 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.9% (31,064 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.2% (9,736 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.5% (94,279 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.6% (18,485 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.7% (13,172 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