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

Total population
38,593
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,215/yr
9.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,303
0.1% year-over-year change

Lawrence County population

How many people live in Lawrence County

Lawrence County is home to 38,593 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Lawrence County locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
38,593
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
19,412
Female
49.7%
19,181
Value Percent YoY change
Male 19,412 50.3% 0.5%
Female 19,181 49.7% 0.6%
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 Lawrence County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.8% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.1% of the population, while another 24.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.8%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
24.1%
45 to 64
24.5%
Over 65
18.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,029 20.8% 0.2%
15 to 24 4,833 12.5% -0.2%
25 to 44 9,292 24.1% 2.0%
45 to 64 9,443 24.5% -0.4%
Over 65 6,996 18.1% 0.7%
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 Lawrence County, 95.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 36,902 95.6% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,023 2.6% 14.8%
Non-citizens 668 1.7% -15.7%
Racial breakdown
White
88.2%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.2%
Other
3.2%
Value Percent
White 34,058 88.2%
Black or African American 107 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 225 0.6%
Asian 187 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 16 0%
Two or more races 2,786 7.2%
Other 1,214 3.2%

Households in Lawrence County

A peek inside Lawrence County households

Lawrence County has 14,602 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67.8% are families, while the remaining 32.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,602
-0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,696
Family households
9,906
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,696 32.2% -5.2%
Family households 9,906 67.8% 1.7%
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 Lawrence County

The housing landscape of Lawrence County

Lawrence County's housing consists of 16,303 units, with 79.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% 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 9.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,303
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,911 79.2%
1 unit, attached 140 0.9%
2 units 272 1.7%
3 or 4 units 704 4.3%
5 to 9 units 283 1.7%
10 to 19 units 211 1.3%
20 to 49 units 95 0.6%
50 or more units 13 0.1%
Mobile home 1,582 9.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 92 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
227
64.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lawrence County

In Lawrence County, the median construction year is 1979. About 13.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,253 13.8% 5.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 574 3.5% -15.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,551 9.5% 3.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,491 9.2% 13.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,445 15% -8.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,732 10.6% 3.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,195 13.5% -12.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,721 16.7% 11.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,114 6.8% -8.1%
Built in 2020 or later 227 1.4% 64.5%
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.

Lawrence County occupancy rates

Out of the 14,602 occupied housing units in Lawrence County, 73.9% are owner-occupied, while 26.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,602
-0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,817
Owner occupied
10,785
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,817 26.1% -4.5%
Owner occupied 10,785 73.9% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
10.4%
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.

Lawrence County housing costs

Housing costs in Lawrence County come to a median of $811 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $800.

Median housing costs per month
$811/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 Lawrence County
$800/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 Lawrence County

Lawrence County education at a glance

About 47.9% of the population in Lawrence County went to high school, while 23.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.9% earned an associate degree and 10.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,337 4.6% -14.5%
High school diploma 13,792 47.9% -3.0%
College diploma 6,882 23.9% 5.5%
Associate degree 2,274 7.9% 19.4%
Bachelor's degree 3,024 10.5% 4.1%
Graduate degree 1,475 5.1% -2.0%
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 Lawrence County

How much people earn in Lawrence County

The average annual household income in Lawrence County was $74,676 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,215, reflecting a +9.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lawrence County
$74,676/year
5.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lawrence County
$61,215/year
9.6% year-over-year change

Lawrence County income by age

In Lawrence County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,502. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,905 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $35,951, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,713 in earnings. Overall, 85.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $35,951 -1.4%
25 - 44 $66,502 4.0%
45 - 64 $77,905 14.6%
Over 65 $44,713 8.5%
Above poverty level
31,940
Below poverty level
5,423
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 31,940 85.5% 3.1%
Below poverty level 5,423 14.5% -11.1%

Employment in Lawrence County

Workforce and job types in Lawrence County

The job market in Lawrence County is powered by 17,260 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.9% run their own businesses, 67.5% are employed by private companies, and 13.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,260
2.8% year-over-year change
White collar
11,607
Blue collar
5,653
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,607 67.2% 6.8%
Blue collar 5,653 32.8% -4.6%
Employer type
Self employees
12.9%
Private companies
67.5%
Governmental workers
13.8%
Not for profit companies
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,222 12.9% 22.0%
Private companies 11,649 67.5% -2.3%
Governmental workers 2,381 13.8% 13.2%
Not for profit companies 1,008 5.8% 5.7%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
-13.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lawrence County stands at 4.3%, 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 Lawrence County

How people get around in Lawrence County

Commuting methods vary: 86.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.7% 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 14,689 86.9% 4.3%
Bus or trolleybus 9 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 35 0.2% 118.8%
Bicycle 42 0.2% 0.0%
Walk 125 0.7% -34.5%
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 Lawrence County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
64848 609 177 $97,796 $123,876
64862 3,173 1,137 $59,489 $66,207
64873 1,329 430 $74,360 $83,885
65646 1,961 783 $52,708 $80,020
65654 245 114 $47,500 $62,154
65664 40 18 $0 $35,578
65705 4,949 1,752 $61,000 $74,562
65604 3,873 1,517 $68,683 $119,398
65605 11,514 4,593 $53,294 $70,622
65612 2,057 902 $78,047 $76,855

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FAQs about Lawrence County demographics 

What is the total population of Lawrence County?

Lawrence County has a total population of 38,593 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 Lawrence County?

The gender ratio in Lawrence County is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (19,412 residents)
  • 49.7% females (19,181 residents)

What is the median age in Lawrence County?

The median age in Lawrence County is 38.8.

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

The age distribution in Lawrence County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.8% (8,029 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (4,833 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.1% (9,292 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.5% (9,443 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.1% (6,996 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lawrence County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lawrence County is as follows:
  • White: 88.2% (34,058 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (107 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (225 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (187 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (16 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.2% (2,786 residents)
  • Other: 3.2% (1,214 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.6% of the population in Lawrence County.

How many housing units are there in Lawrence County?

There are 16,303 housing units in Lawrence County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lawrence County has a total of 14,602 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lawrence County?

Lawrence County has a median household income of $61,215, representing a +9.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.7% in Lawrence County, with a workforce of 17,260 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.2% (11,607 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.8% (5,653 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.9% (2,222 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.5% (11,649 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.8% (2,381 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.8% (1,008 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