Licking, MO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,858
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$35,652/yr
8.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
760
-9.7% year-over-year change

Licking population

How many people live in Licking

Licking is home to 2,858 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 67.9% of Licking locals are male, and 32.1% are female.

Total population
2,858
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
67.9%
1,941
Female
32.1%
917
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,941 67.9% -0.4%
Female 917 32.1% 5.7%
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 Licking is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.1% are children under 15, then 10.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 43.8% of the population, while another 19.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.1%
15 to 24
10.6%
25 to 44
43.8%
45 to 64
19.5%
Over 65
14%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 346 12.1% -7.7%
15 to 24 303 10.6% -2.6%
25 to 44 1,252 43.8% 20.1%
45 to 64 557 19.5% -11.9%
Over 65 400 14% -12.3%
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 Licking, 96% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4% have gained naturalized citizenship. There’s also a share of 4.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,745 96% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 113 4% 50.7%
Racial breakdown
White
78.4%
Black or African American
16.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.8%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 2,241 78.4%
Black or African American 468 16.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 12 0.4%
Two or more races 137 4.8%

Households in Licking

A peek inside Licking households

Licking has 672 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.1% are families, while the remaining 32.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
672
-9.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
221
Family households
451
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 221 32.9% -28.9%
Family households 451 67.1% 4.9%
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 Licking

The housing landscape of Licking

Licking's housing consists of 760 units, with 74.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 3.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
760
-9.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 563 74.1%
2 units 13 1.7%
3 or 4 units 98 12.9%
5 to 9 units 22 2.9%
10 to 19 units 20 2.6%
20 to 49 units 7 0.9%
50 or more units 9 1.2%
Mobile home 28 3.7%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Licking

In Licking, the median construction year is 1974. About 4.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.2% 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 4.1% -3.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 47 6.2% -33.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 124 16.3% 24.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 127 16.7% -19.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 127 16.7% -10.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 68 9% -20.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 135 17.8% 0.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 57 7.5% -30.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 44 5.8% 18.9%
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.

Licking occupancy rates

Out of the 672 occupied housing units in Licking, 52.8% are owner-occupied, while 47.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
672
-9.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
317
Owner occupied
355
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 317 47.2% -0.9%
Owner occupied 355 52.8% -15.7%
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.

Licking housing costs

Housing costs in Licking come to a median of $707 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $657.

Median housing costs per month
$707/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 Licking
$657/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 Licking

Licking education at a glance

About 67.8% of the population in Licking went to high school, while 17.8% pursued college studies. Another 5% earned an associate degree and 4.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 1.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 77 3.1% -7.2%
High school diploma 1,664 67.8% 5.3%
College diploma 436 17.8% -4.4%
Associate degree 122 5% 0.0%
Bachelor's degree 113 4.6% -5.0%
Graduate degree 44 1.8% 2.3%
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 Licking

How much people earn in Licking

The average annual household income in Licking was $45,908 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -16.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $35,652, reflecting a +8.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Licking
$45,908/year
-16.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Licking
$35,652/year
8.7% year-over-year change

Licking income by age

In Licking, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $34,432. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $47,917 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $65,583, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $28,750 in earnings. Overall, 62.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $65,583 N/A
25 - 44 $34,432 -12.3%
45 - 64 $47,917 -3.4%
Over 65 $28,750 17.8%
Above poverty level
1,005
Below poverty level
614
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,005 62.1% -4.2%
Below poverty level 614 37.9% 1.7%

Average renter income in Licking

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Licking, their median household income was $22,703 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$22,703
Rent-to-income ratio
34.7%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Licking

Workforce and job types in Licking

The job market in Licking is powered by 589 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.6% run their own businesses, 57.6% are employed by private companies, and 29.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
589
-8.7% year-over-year change
White collar
469
Blue collar
120
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 469 79.6% 6.1%
Blue collar 120 20.4% -40.9%
Employer type
Self employees
6.6%
Private companies
57.6%
Governmental workers
29.9%
Not for profit companies
5.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 39 6.6% -22.0%
Private companies 339 57.6% -16.7%
Governmental workers 176 29.9% 9.3%
Not for profit companies 35 5.9% 29.6%
Unemployment rate
20.4%
86.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Licking stands at 20.4%, 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 Licking

How people get around in Licking

Commuting methods vary: 86.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% 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 498 86.9% -8.8%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0.4% -33.3%
Walk 13 2.3% -18.8%
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 Licking by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
65542 7,060 2,172 $46,076 $58,672

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FAQs about Licking demographics 

What is the total population of Licking?

Licking has a total population of 2,858 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Licking?

The gender ratio in Licking is as follows:
  • 67.9% males (1,941 residents)
  • 32.1% females (917 residents)

What is the median age in Licking?

The median age in Licking is 37.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Licking?

The age distribution in Licking is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.1% (346 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.6% (303 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 43.8% (1,252 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.5% (557 residents)
  • Over 65: 14% (400 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Licking?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Licking is as follows:
  • White: 78.4% (2,241 residents)
  • Black or African American: 16.4% (468 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (12 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.8% (137 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96% of the population in Licking.

How many housing units are there in Licking?

There are 760 housing units in Licking, reflecting a -9.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Licking has a total of 672 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Licking?

Licking has a median household income of $35,652, representing a +8.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Licking?

The employment rate is 79.6% in Licking, with a workforce of 589 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.6% (469 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.4% (120 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.6% (39 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.6% (339 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 29.9% (176 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.9% (35 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