Jefferson City, MO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
42,488
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,371/yr
-1.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
19,354
1.6% year-over-year change

Jefferson City population

How many people live in Jefferson City

Jefferson City is home to 42,488 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.1% of Jefferson City locals are male, and 48.9% are female.

Total population
42,488
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.1%
21,715
Female
48.9%
20,773
Value Percent YoY change
Male 21,715 51.1% -1.0%
Female 20,773 48.9% 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 Jefferson City is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.6% are children under 15, then 13.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.1% of the population, while another 23% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.6%
15 to 24
13.9%
25 to 44
29.1%
45 to 64
23%
Over 65
17.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,039 16.6% -0.2%
15 to 24 5,895 13.9% 6.7%
25 to 44 12,356 29.1% -2.1%
45 to 64 9,772 23% -4.8%
Over 65 7,426 17.5% 4.6%
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 Jefferson City, 95.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 72.4% of locals are Caucasian, 16.1% are African American and 2.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
2.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 40,650 95.7% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 927 2.2% -4.0%
Non-citizens 911 2.1% -13.2%
Racial breakdown
White
72.4%
Black or African American
16.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
2.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.8%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 30,740 72.4%
Black or African American 6,857 16.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 175 0.4%
Asian 1,026 2.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 5 0%
Two or more races 2,899 6.8%
Other 786 1.8%

Households in Jefferson City

A peek inside Jefferson City households

Jefferson City has 17,529 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.6% are families, while the remaining 46.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
17,529
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
8,138
Family households
9,391
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,138 46.4% 5.0%
Family households 9,391 53.6% -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 Jefferson City

The housing landscape of Jefferson City

Jefferson City's housing consists of 19,354 units, with 61.1% 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 1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
19,354
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,827 61.1%
1 unit, attached 714 3.7%
2 units 1,218 6.3%
3 or 4 units 2,190 11.3%
5 to 9 units 941 4.9%
10 to 19 units 1,075 5.6%
20 to 49 units 493 2.6%
50 or more units 704 3.6%
Mobile home 192 1%
Homes built since 2020
57
-38.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Jefferson City

In Jefferson City, the median construction year is 1978. About 11.1% 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, 13.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,155 11.1% 0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 701 3.6% 6.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,791 9.2% -5.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,629 13.6% 1.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,045 15.7% 4.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,625 13.6% 2.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,544 13.1% -0.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,616 13.5% 6.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,191 6.2% -0.6%
Built in 2020 or later 57 0.3% -38.7%
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.

Jefferson City occupancy rates

Out of the 17,529 occupied housing units in Jefferson City, 59.2% are owner-occupied, while 40.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
17,529
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,151
Owner occupied
10,378
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,151 40.8% 1.4%
Owner occupied 10,378 59.2% 2.7%
Unoccupied housing units
9.4%
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.

Jefferson City housing costs

Housing costs in Jefferson City come to a median of $856 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $802.

Median housing costs per month
$856/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 Jefferson City
$802/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 Jefferson City

Jefferson City education at a glance

About 37.2% of the population in Jefferson City went to high school, while 18.5% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 21.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 515 1.5% -4.6%
High school diploma 12,669 37.2% -1.9%
College diploma 6,295 18.5% -5.0%
Associate degree 2,605 7.6% 9.4%
Bachelor's degree 7,437 21.8% 4.1%
Graduate degree 4,524 13.3% -0.1%
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 Jefferson City

How much people earn in Jefferson City

The average annual household income in Jefferson City was $88,207 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,371, reflecting a -1.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Jefferson City
$88,207/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Jefferson City
$66,371/year
-1.2% year-over-year change

Jefferson City income by age

In Jefferson City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,845. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,531 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,400, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,151 in earnings. Overall, 87.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,400 -7.5%
25 - 44 $72,845 2.2%
45 - 64 $76,531 6.6%
Over 65 $56,151 3.8%
Above poverty level
33,219
Below poverty level
4,599
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 33,219 87.8% 1.3%
Below poverty level 4,599 12.2% -3.8%

Employment in Jefferson City

Workforce and job types in Jefferson City

The job market in Jefferson City is powered by 20,821 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 55.4% are employed by private companies, and 27.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
20,821
1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
17,005
Blue collar
3,816
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 17,005 81.7% 2.0%
Blue collar 3,816 18.3% -1.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
55.4%
Governmental workers
27.9%
Not for profit companies
9.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,552 7.4% -1.1%
Private companies 11,525 55.4% -3.1%
Governmental workers 5,802 27.9% 16.5%
Not for profit companies 1,942 9.3% -6.5%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
2.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Jefferson City stands at 3.2%, 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 Jefferson City

How people get around in Jefferson City

In Jefferson City, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.5% 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
16 min
-0.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 17,497 84.5% -2.3%
Taxicab 118 0.6% -21.9%
Bus or trolleybus 153 0.7% 16.8%
Motorcycle 12 0.1% -14.3%
Bicycle 40 0.2% 33.3%
Walk 382 1.8% 8.2%
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 Jefferson City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
65101 28,793 10,888 $74,807 $91,767
65109 41,145 17,306 $74,694 $95,927

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Jefferson City demographics 

What is the total population of Jefferson City?

Jefferson City has a total population of 42,488 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 Jefferson City?

The gender ratio in Jefferson City is as follows:
  • 51.1% males (21,715 residents)
  • 48.9% females (20,773 residents)

What is the median age in Jefferson City?

The median age in Jefferson City is 38.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Jefferson City?

The age distribution in Jefferson City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.6% (7,039 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.9% (5,895 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.1% (12,356 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23% (9,772 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.5% (7,426 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Jefferson City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Jefferson City is as follows:
  • White: 72.4% (30,740 residents)
  • Black or African American: 16.1% (6,857 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (175 residents)
  • Asian: 2.4% (1,026 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (5 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.8% (2,899 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (786 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.7% of the population in Jefferson City.

How many housing units are there in Jefferson City?

There are 19,354 housing units in Jefferson City, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Jefferson City has a total of 17,529 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Jefferson City?

Jefferson City has a median household income of $66,371, representing a -1.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Jefferson City?

The employment rate is 96.8% in Jefferson City, with a workforce of 20,821 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.7% (17,005 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.3% (3,816 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (1,552 residents)
  • Private companies: 55.4% (11,525 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 27.9% (5,802 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.3% (1,942 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