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

Total population
14,539
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,312/yr
3.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,822
-0.2% year-over-year change

Dent County population

How many people live in Dent County

Dent County is home to 14,539 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Dent County locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
14,539
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
7,271
Female
50%
7,268
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,271 50% 0.5%
Female 7,268 50% -0.0%
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 Dent County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.5% are children under 15, then 10.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.5% of the population, while another 26.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.5%
15 to 24
10.9%
25 to 44
21.5%
45 to 64
26.9%
Over 65
22.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,691 18.5% -0.3%
15 to 24 1,586 10.9% 2.4%
25 to 44 3,123 21.5% -0.5%
45 to 64 3,906 26.9% -1.4%
Over 65 3,233 22.2% 2.3%
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 Dent County, 96.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.8% of locals are Caucasian, 0.5% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.1%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 13,983 96.2% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 445 3.1% 55.6%
Non-citizens 111 0.8% -7.5%
Racial breakdown
White
91.8%
Black or African American
0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
5%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 13,353 91.8%
Black or African American 68 0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 103 0.7%
Asian 124 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 10 0.1%
Two or more races 722 5%
Other 159 1.1%

Households in Dent County

A peek inside Dent County households

Dent County has 5,618 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.5% are families, while the remaining 35.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,618
-1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,995
Family households
3,623
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,995 35.5% -1.7%
Family households 3,623 64.5% -0.6%
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 Dent County

The housing landscape of Dent County

Dent County's housing consists of 6,822 units, with 70.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.7% 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 17.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,822
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,831 70.8%
1 unit, attached 47 0.7%
2 units 324 4.8%
3 or 4 units 270 4%
5 to 9 units 68 1%
10 to 19 units 26 0.4%
20 to 49 units 13 0.2%
Mobile home 1,217 17.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 26 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
62
10.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dent County

In Dent County, the median construction year is 1978. About 8.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 609 8.9% 14.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 326 4.8% -7.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 585 8.6% 6.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 923 13.5% -5.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,168 17.1% -0.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 745 10.9% 12.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,104 16.2% 4.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 754 11% -7.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 546 8% -17.5%
Built in 2020 or later 62 0.9% 10.7%
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.

Dent County occupancy rates

Out of the 5,618 occupied housing units in Dent County, 75.9% are owner-occupied, while 24.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,618
-1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,352
Owner occupied
4,266
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,352 24.1% 2.8%
Owner occupied 4,266 75.9% -2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
17.6%
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.

Dent County housing costs

Housing costs in Dent County come to a median of $646 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $660.

Median housing costs per month
$646/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 Dent County
$660/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 Dent County

Dent County education at a glance

About 49.3% of the population in Dent County went to high school, while 22.1% pursued college studies. Another 6.9% earned an associate degree and 9.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 738 6.6% 52.2%
High school diploma 5,550 49.3% 1.3%
College diploma 2,489 22.1% -1.2%
Associate degree 774 6.9% -10.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,059 9.4% -9.2%
Graduate degree 650 5.8% -8.8%
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 Dent County

How much people earn in Dent County

The average annual household income in Dent County was $73,407 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +10.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,312, reflecting a +3.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dent County
$73,407/year
10.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dent County
$56,312/year
3.7% year-over-year change

Dent County income by age

In Dent County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,182. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $63,613 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $56,563, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $36,279 in earnings. Overall, 87.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $56,563 N/A
25 - 44 $77,182 9.2%
45 - 64 $63,613 12.7%
Over 65 $36,279 -3.8%
Above poverty level
12,436
Below poverty level
1,743
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,436 87.7% 2.8%
Below poverty level 1,743 12.3% -14.5%

Employment in Dent County

Workforce and job types in Dent County

The job market in Dent County is powered by 5,923 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.2% run their own businesses, 61.3% are employed by private companies, and 23.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,923
-3.7% year-over-year change
White collar
4,226
Blue collar
1,697
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,226 71.4% -7.8%
Blue collar 1,697 28.6% 8.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.2%
Private companies
61.3%
Governmental workers
23.2%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 487 8.2% -9.5%
Private companies 3,633 61.3% -0.4%
Governmental workers 1,377 23.2% -8.5%
Not for profit companies 426 7.2% -7.4%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
1.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dent County stands at 4.4%, 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 Dent County

How people get around in Dent County

In Dent County, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
-4.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,024 89.6% -5.5%
Motorcycle 12 0.2% 9.1%
Walk 130 2.3% 25.0%
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 Dent County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
63629 947 355 $47,049 $58,468
65401 32,714 12,773 $56,081 $75,769
65440 206 101 $37,250 $44,171
65462 1,264 523 $54,712 $65,552
65501 87 43 $25,417 $37,326
65541 150 51 $54,931 $51,673
65560 13,822 5,294 $56,250 $73,389

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FAQs about Dent County demographics 

What is the total population of Dent County?

Dent County has a total population of 14,539 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dent County?

The gender ratio in Dent County is as follows:
  • 50% males (7,271 residents)
  • 50% females (7,268 residents)

What is the median age in Dent County?

The median age in Dent County is 43.5.

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

The age distribution in Dent County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.5% (2,691 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.9% (1,586 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.5% (3,123 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.9% (3,906 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.2% (3,233 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dent County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dent County is as follows:
  • White: 91.8% (13,353 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.5% (68 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (103 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (124 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (10 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5% (722 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (159 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.2% of the population in Dent County.

How many housing units are there in Dent County?

There are 6,822 housing units in Dent County, reflecting a -0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Dent County has a total of 5,618 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dent County?

Dent County has a median household income of $56,312, representing a +3.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Dent County, with a workforce of 5,923 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.4% (4,226 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.6% (1,697 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.2% (487 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.3% (3,633 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.2% (1,377 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (426 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