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

Total population
40,383
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,993/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
18,149
0.2% year-over-year change

Howell County population

How many people live in Howell County

Howell County is home to 40,383 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.7% of Howell County locals are male, and 51.3% are female.

Total population
40,383
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.7%
19,666
Female
51.3%
20,717
Value Percent YoY change
Male 19,666 48.7% 0.4%
Female 20,717 51.3% 0.7%
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 Howell County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.8% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.1% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.8%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
23.1%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
19.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,013 19.8% 0.2%
15 to 24 4,879 12.1% 1.0%
25 to 44 9,344 23.1% 0.8%
45 to 64 10,101 25% 0.1%
Over 65 8,046 19.9% 0.9%
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 Howell County, 98% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92% of locals are Caucasian, 0.5% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 39,581 98% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 565 1.4% -6.8%
Non-citizens 237 0.6% 16.2%
Racial breakdown
White
92%
Black or African American
0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.1%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 37,171 92%
Black or African American 216 0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 107 0.3%
Asian 183 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2 0%
Two or more races 2,060 5.1%
Other 644 1.6%

Households in Howell County

A peek inside Howell County households

Howell County has 15,965 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.5% are families, while the remaining 34.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,965
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,510
Family households
10,455
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,510 34.5% -0.9%
Family households 10,455 65.5% 0.2%
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 Howell County

The housing landscape of Howell County

Howell County's housing consists of 18,149 units, with 75.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1% 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 12% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
18,149
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,629 75.1%
1 unit, attached 188 1%
2 units 458 2.5%
3 or 4 units 735 4%
5 to 9 units 314 1.7%
10 to 19 units 237 1.3%
20 to 49 units 66 0.4%
50 or more units 175 1%
Mobile home 2,171 12%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 176 1%
Homes built since 2020
150
108.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Howell County

In Howell County, the median construction year is 1982. About 10.6% 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, 14.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.2% 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 1,914 10.6% -0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 786 4.3% 14.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,345 7.4% 15.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,474 8.1% -3.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,105 17.1% -0.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,053 11.3% -4.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,078 17% -5.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,579 14.2% 2.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,665 9.2% -0.5%
Built in 2020 or later 150 0.8% 108.3%
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.

Howell County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,965 occupied housing units in Howell County, 70.3% are owner-occupied, while 29.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,965
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,742
Owner occupied
11,223
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,742 29.7% -5.4%
Owner occupied 11,223 70.3% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
12.0%
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.

Howell County housing costs

Housing costs in Howell County come to a median of $677 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $733.

Median housing costs per month
$677/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 Howell County
$733/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 Howell County

Howell County education at a glance

About 50.2% of the population in Howell County went to high school, while 21.8% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 10.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 989 3.2% -7.4%
High school diploma 15,374 50.2% -0.5%
College diploma 6,681 21.8% 1.3%
Associate degree 2,575 8.4% 6.7%
Bachelor's degree 3,088 10.1% 0.9%
Graduate degree 1,935 6.3% 7.5%
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 Howell County

How much people earn in Howell County

The average annual household income in Howell County was $66,539 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,993, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Howell County
$66,539/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Howell County
$50,993/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Howell County income by age

In Howell County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,836. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $55,902 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,640, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $36,839 in earnings. Overall, 79.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,640 -2.1%
25 - 44 $63,836 -4.0%
45 - 64 $55,902 10.2%
Over 65 $36,839 6.3%
Above poverty level
31,123
Below poverty level
7,984
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 31,123 79.6% 2.3%
Below poverty level 7,984 20.4% -4.8%

Employment in Howell County

Workforce and job types in Howell County

The job market in Howell County is powered by 16,824 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.2% run their own businesses, 58.2% are employed by private companies, and 19% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,824
3.2% year-over-year change
White collar
11,877
Blue collar
4,947
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,877 70.6% 2.3%
Blue collar 4,947 29.4% 5.4%
Employer type
Self employees
12.2%
Private companies
58.2%
Governmental workers
19%
Not for profit companies
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,054 12.2% 10.8%
Private companies 9,784 58.2% 1.4%
Governmental workers 3,204 19% 5.2%
Not for profit companies 1,782 10.6% 1.6%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
1.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Howell County stands at 5%, 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 Howell County

How people get around in Howell County

Commuting methods vary: 91.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% 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 15,036 91.8% 2.2%
Bus or trolleybus 15 0.1% -42.3%
Motorcycle 73 0.4% -35.4%
Bicycle 2 0% 0.0%
Walk 148 0.9% -29.2%
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 Howell County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
65626 1,405 571 $40,208 $55,559
65637 1,190 390 $50,588 $70,454
65692 1,068 396 $40,357 $59,151
65548 6,388 2,459 $48,698 $57,198
65609 733 294 $53,571 $77,218
65775 25,773 10,267 $52,206 $67,782
65777 154 53 $0 $90,540
65788 341 116 $64,375 $76,367
65789 1,555 603 $57,083 $73,312
65790 865 309 $68,672 $66,420

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FAQs about Howell County demographics 

What is the total population of Howell County?

Howell County has a total population of 40,383 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Howell County?

The gender ratio in Howell County is as follows:
  • 48.7% males (19,666 residents)
  • 51.3% females (20,717 residents)

What is the median age in Howell County?

The median age in Howell County is 40.3.

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

The age distribution in Howell County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.8% (8,013 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (4,879 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.1% (9,344 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (10,101 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.9% (8,046 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Howell County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Howell County is as follows:
  • White: 92% (37,171 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.5% (216 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (107 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (183 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (2 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.1% (2,060 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (644 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98% of the population in Howell County.

How many housing units are there in Howell County?

There are 18,149 housing units in Howell 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 Howell County and what is the average household size?

Howell County has a total of 15,965 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Howell County?

Howell County has a median household income of $50,993, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95% in Howell County, with a workforce of 16,824 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.6% (11,877 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.4% (4,947 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.2% (2,054 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.2% (9,784 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19% (3,204 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.6% (1,782 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