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

Total population
33,115
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$80,612/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,221
0.3% year-over-year change

Lafayette County population

How many people live in Lafayette County

Lafayette County is home to 33,115 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Lafayette County locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
33,115
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
16,596
Female
49.9%
16,519
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,596 50.1% 0.5%
Female 16,519 49.9% 0.3%
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 Lafayette County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.6% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.6%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
19.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,173 18.6% -0.6%
15 to 24 3,735 11.3% -1.6%
25 to 44 8,222 24.8% 2.9%
45 to 64 8,592 26% -1.7%
Over 65 6,393 19.3% 2.5%
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 Lafayette County, 97% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.8% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 32,139 97% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 650 2% 8.7%
Non-citizens 326 1% -18.3%
Racial breakdown
White
90.8%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.5%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 30,066 90.8%
Black or African American 514 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 80 0.2%
Asian 123 0.4%
Two or more races 1,826 5.5%
Other 506 1.5%

Households in Lafayette County

A peek inside Lafayette County households

Lafayette County has 12,576 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.9% are families, while the remaining 31.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,576
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,916
Family households
8,660
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,916 31.1% 4.6%
Family households 8,660 68.9% -0.4%
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 Lafayette County

The housing landscape of Lafayette County

Lafayette County's housing consists of 14,221 units, with 81.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.4% 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 5.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,221
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,603 81.6%
1 unit, attached 206 1.4%
2 units 511 3.6%
3 or 4 units 425 3%
5 to 9 units 192 1.4%
10 to 19 units 69 0.5%
20 to 49 units 225 1.6%
50 or more units 134 0.9%
Mobile home 816 5.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 40 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
243
36.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lafayette County

In Lafayette County, the median construction year is 1975. About 14.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,031 14.3% -8.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 866 6.1% 0.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,685 11.8% 3.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,470 10.3% -3.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,141 15.1% -4.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,359 9.6% -9.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,860 13.1% -4.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,848 13% 18.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 718 5% 34.2%
Built in 2020 or later 243 1.7% 36.5%
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.

Lafayette County occupancy rates

Out of the 12,576 occupied housing units in Lafayette County, 75.8% are owner-occupied, while 24.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,576
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,050
Owner occupied
9,526
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,050 24.2% 4.2%
Owner occupied 9,526 75.8% 0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
11.6%
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.

Lafayette County housing costs

Housing costs in Lafayette County come to a median of $929 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $928.

Median housing costs per month
$929/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 Lafayette County
$928/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 Lafayette County

Lafayette County education at a glance

About 42.4% of the population in Lafayette County went to high school, while 22.4% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 15.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 659 2.6% -13.7%
High school diploma 10,809 42.4% -6.8%
College diploma 5,708 22.4% 8.4%
Associate degree 2,155 8.4% 4.1%
Bachelor's degree 4,045 15.9% 5.1%
Graduate degree 2,132 8.4% 16.4%
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 Lafayette County

How much people earn in Lafayette County

The average annual household income in Lafayette County was $93,896 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $80,612, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lafayette County
$93,896/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lafayette County
$80,612/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Lafayette County income by age

In Lafayette County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $96,486. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $100,068 overall. Overall, 90.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $96,486 0.2%
45 - 64 $100,068 6.5%
Over 65 $53,297 -3.9%
Above poverty level
29,401
Below poverty level
2,936
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 29,401 90.9% 1.0%
Below poverty level 2,936 9.1% -0.8%

Employment in Lafayette County

Workforce and job types in Lafayette County

The job market in Lafayette County is powered by 16,201 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.4% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 14.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,201
1.3% year-over-year change
White collar
11,512
Blue collar
4,689
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,512 71.1% 5.0%
Blue collar 4,689 28.9% -6.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.4%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
14.4%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,527 9.4% 2.4%
Private companies 10,886 67.2% -0.7%
Governmental workers 2,331 14.4% 11.6%
Not for profit companies 1,457 9% 0.6%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
41.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lafayette County stands at 3%, 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 Lafayette County

How people get around in Lafayette County

In Lafayette County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.1% 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.

Commute time
25 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,871 88.1% -0.4%
Bus or trolleybus 5 0% 150.0%
Bicycle 18 0.1% 38.5%
Walk 251 1.6% -19.8%
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 Lafayette County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
64001 842 308 $68,000 $88,031
64011 3,876 1,352 $82,981 $108,041
64017 335 139 $68,239 $79,834
64020 2,953 1,246 $59,269 $72,980
64021 573 189 $97,188 $86,393
64022 140 43 $78,125 $79,070
64037 6,460 2,529 $91,843 $92,766
64067 5,978 2,367 $69,546 $80,248
64071 728 249 $124,375 $186,968
64074 524 225 $75,469 $116,116

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FAQs about Lafayette County demographics 

What is the total population of Lafayette County?

Lafayette County has a total population of 33,115 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lafayette County?

The gender ratio in Lafayette County is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (16,596 residents)
  • 49.9% females (16,519 residents)

What is the median age in Lafayette County?

The median age in Lafayette County is 40.9.

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

The age distribution in Lafayette County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.6% (6,173 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (3,735 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (8,222 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (8,592 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.3% (6,393 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lafayette County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lafayette County is as follows:
  • White: 90.8% (30,066 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (514 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (80 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (123 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.5% (1,826 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (506 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97% of the population in Lafayette County.

How many housing units are there in Lafayette County?

There are 14,221 housing units in Lafayette County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lafayette County has a total of 12,576 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lafayette County?

Lafayette County has a median household income of $80,612, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97% in Lafayette County, with a workforce of 16,201 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.1% (11,512 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.9% (4,689 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.4% (1,527 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (10,886 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.4% (2,331 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (1,457 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