Kelso, MO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
603
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,875/yr
3.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
258
2.8% year-over-year change

Kelso population

How many people live in Kelso

Kelso is home to 603 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.6% of Kelso locals are male, and 54.4% are female.

Total population
603
1.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.6%
275
Female
54.4%
328
Value Percent YoY change
Male 275 45.6% 0.0%
Female 328 54.4% 3.1%
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 Kelso is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 17.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.4% of the population, while another 20.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
17.7%
25 to 44
27.4%
45 to 64
20.4%
Over 65
16.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 110 18.2% -10.6%
15 to 24 107 17.7% 12.6%
25 to 44 165 27.4% -4.1%
45 to 64 123 20.4% 53.8%
Over 65 98 16.2% -20.3%
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

There’s also a share of 2.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
100%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 603 100% 1.7%
Racial breakdown
White
97.7%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.3%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 589 97.7%
Two or more races 14 2.3%

Households in Kelso

A peek inside Kelso households

Kelso has 246 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.8% are families, while the remaining 36.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
246
3.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
89
Family households
157
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 89 36.2% 11.2%
Family households 157 63.8% -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 Kelso

The housing landscape of Kelso

Kelso's housing consists of 258 units, with 80.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space.

Housing units
258
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 208 80.6%
3 or 4 units 4 1.6%
5 to 9 units 46 17.8%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kelso

In Kelso, the median construction year is 1982. About 12% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 31 12% 24.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 7 2.7% -30.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 20 7.8% 150.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 22 8.5% 46.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 37 14.3% -11.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 69 26.7% -10.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 16 6.2% -20.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 46 17.8% -4.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 10 3.9% 66.7%
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.

Kelso occupancy rates

Out of the 246 occupied housing units in Kelso, 64.6% are owner-occupied, while 35.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
246
3.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
87
Owner occupied
159
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 87 35.4% 8.8%
Owner occupied 159 64.6% 0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
4.7%
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.

Kelso housing costs

Housing costs in Kelso come to a median of $816 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $591.

Median housing costs per month
$816/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 Kelso
$591/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 Kelso

Kelso education at a glance

About 33.1% of the population in Kelso went to high school, while 34.4% pursued college studies. Another 9.4% earned an associate degree and 15.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 11 2.3% 10.0%
High school diploma 158 33.1% 6.8%
College diploma 164 34.4% 13.9%
Associate degree 45 9.4% 2.3%
Bachelor's degree 76 15.9% -11.6%
Graduate degree 23 4.8% -8.0%
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 Kelso

How much people earn in Kelso

The average annual household income in Kelso was $80,874 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,875, reflecting a +3.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kelso
$80,874/year
6.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kelso
$56,875/year
3.7% year-over-year change

Kelso income by age

In Kelso, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $57,361. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,094 overall. Overall, 87.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $57,361 -9.1%
45 - 64 $66,094 -29.5%
Over 65 $46,250 0.0%
Above poverty level
521
Below poverty level
76
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 521 87.3% 2.0%
Below poverty level 76 12.7% 7.0%

Employment in Kelso

Workforce and job types in Kelso

The job market in Kelso is powered by 322 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 49.1% are employed by private companies, and 14% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
322
12.2% year-over-year change
White collar
264
Blue collar
58
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 264 82% 10.5%
Blue collar 58 18% 20.8%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
49.1%
Governmental workers
14%
Not for profit companies
28%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 29 9% -3.3%
Private companies 158 49.1% 15.3%
Governmental workers 45 14% 4.7%
Not for profit companies 90 28% 16.9%
Unemployment rate
0.6%
0.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kelso stands at 0.6%, 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 Kelso

How people get around in Kelso

Commuting methods vary: 95.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.3% 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 290 95.7% 9.4%
Walk 4 1.3% 300.0%
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 Kelso by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
63758 435 186 $56,250 $81,437

Explore more communities

FAQs about Kelso demographics 

What is the total population of Kelso?

Kelso has a total population of 603 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 +1.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kelso?

The gender ratio in Kelso is as follows:
  • 45.6% males (275 residents)
  • 54.4% females (328 residents)

What is the median age in Kelso?

The median age in Kelso is 34.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kelso?

The age distribution in Kelso is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (110 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17.7% (107 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.4% (165 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.4% (123 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.2% (98 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kelso?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kelso is as follows:
  • White: 97.7% (589 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.3% (14 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 100% of the population in Kelso.

How many housing units are there in Kelso?

There are 258 housing units in Kelso, reflecting a +2.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kelso has a total of 246 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kelso?

Kelso has a median household income of $56,875, 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 Kelso?

The employment rate is 99.4% in Kelso, with a workforce of 322 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82% (264 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18% (58 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (29 residents)
  • Private companies: 49.1% (158 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14% (45 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 28% (90 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