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

Total population
510,612
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,166/yr
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
245,346
0.7% year-over-year change

Kansas City population

How many people live in Kansas City

Kansas City is home to 510,612 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.3% of Kansas City locals are male, and 51.7% are female.

Total population
510,612
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.3%
246,770
Female
51.7%
263,842
Value Percent YoY change
Male 246,770 48.3% 0.4%
Female 263,842 51.7% 0.5%
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 Kansas City is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.6% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.1% of the population, while another 22.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.6%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
31.1%
45 to 64
22.9%
Over 65
14.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 95,052 18.6% -0.6%
15 to 24 66,554 13% 1.8%
25 to 44 158,835 31.1% 0.8%
45 to 64 116,923 22.9% -0.9%
Over 65 73,248 14.4% 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 Kansas City, 90.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 56.5% of locals are Caucasian, 25.5% are African American and 2.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.2%
Non-citizens
4.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 461,719 90.4% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 26,481 5.2% 0.2%
Non-citizens 22,412 4.4% 4.0%
Racial breakdown
White
56.5%
Black or African American
25.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
9.9%
Other
4.6%
Value Percent
White 288,681 56.5%
Black or African American 130,023 25.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,166 0.4%
Asian 14,592 2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,074 0.2%
Two or more races 50,440 9.9%
Other 23,636 4.6%

Households in Kansas City

A peek inside Kansas City households

Kansas City has 221,979 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.1% are families, while the remaining 46.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
221,979
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
104,036
Family households
117,943
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 104,036 46.9% 1.0%
Family households 117,943 53.1% 1.2%
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 Kansas City

The housing landscape of Kansas City

Kansas City's housing consists of 245,346 units, with 61.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4% 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
245,346
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 150,840 61.5%
1 unit, attached 9,922 4%
2 units 7,404 3%
3 or 4 units 10,201 4.2%
5 to 9 units 14,497 5.9%
10 to 19 units 14,546 5.9%
20 to 49 units 13,025 5.3%
50 or more units 23,070 9.4%
Mobile home 1,794 0.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 47 0%
Homes built since 2020
3,683
57.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kansas City

In Kansas City, the median construction year is 1969. About 21.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 52,273 21.3% -0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 13,150 5.4% -1.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 31,601 12.9% -1.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 29,418 12% 0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 28,328 11.6% 2.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 20,321 8.3% -2.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 20,215 8.2% -2.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 24,694 10.1% 0.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 21,663 8.8% 7.8%
Built in 2020 or later 3,683 1.5% 57.5%
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.

Kansas City occupancy rates

Out of the 221,979 occupied housing units in Kansas City, 55.4% are owner-occupied, while 44.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
221,979
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
99,027
Owner occupied
122,952
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 99,027 44.6% -0.6%
Owner occupied 122,952 55.4% 2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
9.5%
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.

Kansas City housing costs

Housing costs in Kansas City come to a median of $1,258 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,238.

Median housing costs per month
$1,258/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 Kansas City
$1,238/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 Kansas City

Kansas City education at a glance

About 31.4% of the population in Kansas City went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 7% earned an associate degree and 22.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 12,258 3.1% 6.2%
High school diploma 124,254 31.4% -0.1%
College diploma 89,275 22.6% -0.8%
Associate degree 27,896 7% -1.8%
Bachelor's degree 90,626 22.9% 0.9%
Graduate degree 51,506 13% 4.3%
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 Kansas City

How much people earn in Kansas City

The average annual household income in Kansas City was $94,006 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,166, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kansas City
$94,006/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kansas City
$69,166/year
2.5% year-over-year change

Kansas City income by age

In Kansas City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,079. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,341 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $38,911, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,663 in earnings. Overall, 85.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $38,911 -4.7%
25 - 44 $80,079 2.7%
45 - 64 $78,341 3.4%
Over 65 $49,663 0.1%
Above poverty level
423,948
Below poverty level
72,571
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 423,948 85.4% 0.4%
Below poverty level 72,571 14.6% 1.1%

Employment in Kansas City

Workforce and job types in Kansas City

The job market in Kansas City is powered by 267,654 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.9% run their own businesses, 68.9% are employed by private companies, and 12.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
267,654
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
215,354
Blue collar
52,300
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 215,354 80.5% 1.1%
Blue collar 52,300 19.5% -0.7%
Employer type
Self employees
7.9%
Private companies
68.9%
Governmental workers
12.7%
Not for profit companies
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 21,114 7.9% 0.8%
Private companies 184,369 68.9% 0.5%
Governmental workers 33,917 12.7% 3.5%
Not for profit companies 28,254 10.6% -0.5%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
-7.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kansas City 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 Kansas City

How people get around in Kansas City

Commuting methods vary: 77.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 205,145 77.6% -2.2%
Taxicab 1,260 0.5% 83.4%
Bus or trolleybus 4,633 1.8% -4.4%
Railroad 13 0% N/A
Motorcycle 154 0.1% -46.1%
Bicycle 638 0.2% 10.8%
Walk 4,175 1.6% 3.6%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Kansas City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
64101 203 117 $0 $52,168
64102 56 25 $0 $0
64105 6,312 4,632 $67,235 $83,640
64106 11,343 5,468 $52,564 $76,505
64108 10,495 5,671 $80,551 $98,489
64109 10,043 4,931 $41,943 $74,670
64110 16,878 7,641 $63,044 $86,472
64030 26,422 11,525 $53,216 $66,601
64053 6,775 2,385 $47,285 $58,423
64065 94 23 $0 $202,504

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FAQs about Kansas City demographics 

What is the total population of Kansas City?

Kansas City has a total population of 510,612 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 Kansas City?

The gender ratio in Kansas City is as follows:
  • 48.3% males (246,770 residents)
  • 51.7% females (263,842 residents)

What is the median age in Kansas City?

The median age in Kansas City is 35.8.

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

The age distribution in Kansas City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.6% (95,052 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (66,554 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.1% (158,835 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.9% (116,923 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.4% (73,248 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kansas City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kansas City is as follows:
  • White: 56.5% (288,681 residents)
  • Black or African American: 25.5% (130,023 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (2,166 residents)
  • Asian: 2.9% (14,592 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (1,074 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.9% (50,440 residents)
  • Other: 4.6% (23,636 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.4% of the population in Kansas City.

How many housing units are there in Kansas City?

There are 245,346 housing units in Kansas City, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kansas City has a total of 221,979 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kansas City?

Kansas City has a median household income of $69,166, representing a +2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Kansas City, with a workforce of 267,654 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.5% (215,354 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.5% (52,300 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.9% (21,114 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.9% (184,369 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.7% (33,917 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.6% (28,254 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