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

Total population
43,397
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,430/yr
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
18,673
0.3% year-over-year change

Pettis County population

How many people live in Pettis County

Pettis County is home to 43,397 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Pettis County locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
43,397
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
21,863
Female
49.6%
21,534
Value Percent YoY change
Male 21,863 50.4% 0.8%
Female 21,534 49.6% 0.1%
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 Pettis County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.7% are children under 15, then 12.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.5% of the population, while another 23.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.7%
15 to 24
12.8%
25 to 44
25.5%
45 to 64
23.8%
Over 65
17.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,989 20.7% -0.4%
15 to 24 5,540 12.8% 0.7%
25 to 44 11,047 25.5% 0.9%
45 to 64 10,305 23.8% -0.2%
Over 65 7,516 17.3% 1.5%
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 Pettis County, 91.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 84.2% of locals are Caucasian, 2.5% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.3%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 39,860 91.8% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,868 4.3% 7.9%
Non-citizens 1,669 3.8% 0.7%
Racial breakdown
White
84.2%
Black or African American
2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
8%
Other
3.8%
Value Percent
White 36,541 84.2%
Black or African American 1,073 2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 200 0.5%
Asian 299 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 163 0.4%
Two or more races 3,473 8%
Other 1,648 3.8%

Households in Pettis County

A peek inside Pettis County households

Pettis County has 16,996 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.7% are families, while the remaining 35.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
16,996
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,994
Family households
11,002
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,994 35.3% -0.2%
Family households 11,002 64.7% 0.7%
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 Pettis County

The housing landscape of Pettis County

Pettis County's housing consists of 18,673 units, with 77.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% 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 5.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
18,673
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,474 77.5%
1 unit, attached 462 2.5%
2 units 374 2%
3 or 4 units 618 3.3%
5 to 9 units 561 3%
10 to 19 units 486 2.6%
20 to 49 units 455 2.4%
50 or more units 146 0.8%
Mobile home 1,087 5.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 10 0%
Homes built since 2020
277
81.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pettis County

In Pettis County, the median construction year is 1974. About 16.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.4% 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 3,074 16.5% 4.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 969 5.2% -7.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,307 12.4% 4.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,766 9.5% -8.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,889 15.5% 0.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,596 8.6% -1.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,329 12.5% -12.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,898 10.2% 5.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,568 8.4% 17.2%
Built in 2020 or later 277 1.5% 81.0%
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.

Pettis County occupancy rates

Out of the 16,996 occupied housing units in Pettis County, 69.1% are owner-occupied, while 30.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
16,996
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,245
Owner occupied
11,751
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,245 30.9% 3.6%
Owner occupied 11,751 69.1% -1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
9.0%
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.

Pettis County housing costs

Housing costs in Pettis County come to a median of $832 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $885.

Median housing costs per month
$832/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 Pettis County
$885/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 Pettis County

Pettis County education at a glance

About 44.5% of the population in Pettis County went to high school, while 22% pursued college studies. Another 11.3% earned an associate degree and 10.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,627 5% -2.9%
High school diploma 14,480 44.5% 5.9%
College diploma 7,165 22% -6.0%
Associate degree 3,683 11.3% -3.3%
Bachelor's degree 3,427 10.5% 2.3%
Graduate degree 2,128 6.6% -3.1%
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 Pettis County

How much people earn in Pettis County

The average annual household income in Pettis County was $76,820 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,430, reflecting a +0.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pettis County
$76,820/year
-1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pettis County
$60,430/year
0.3% year-over-year change

Pettis County income by age

In Pettis County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,689. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $69,340 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,928, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,397 in earnings. Overall, 84.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,928 1.8%
25 - 44 $70,689 0.4%
45 - 64 $69,340 3.3%
Over 65 $47,397 1.6%
Above poverty level
35,554
Below poverty level
6,523
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 35,554 84.5% -2.1%
Below poverty level 6,523 15.5% 17.3%

Employment in Pettis County

Workforce and job types in Pettis County

The job market in Pettis County is powered by 20,105 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.9% run their own businesses, 67.7% are employed by private companies, and 11.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
20,105
-0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
12,952
Blue collar
7,153
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,952 64.4% -2.4%
Blue collar 7,153 35.6% 2.7%
Employer type
Self employees
12.9%
Private companies
67.7%
Governmental workers
11.7%
Not for profit companies
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,597 12.9% -5.4%
Private companies 13,613 67.7% 0.9%
Governmental workers 2,348 11.7% -5.1%
Not for profit companies 1,547 7.7% 1.4%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-5.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Pettis County stands at 3.8%, 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 Pettis County

How people get around in Pettis County

In Pettis County, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
-3.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 17,514 88.7% -3.0%
Bus or trolleybus 60 0.3% 53.9%
Motorcycle 56 0.3% 115.4%
Bicycle 31 0.2% -36.7%
Walk 406 2.1% 97.1%
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 Pettis County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
65301 35,091 13,852 $58,064 $75,621
65332 1,949 739 $66,750 $86,193
65333 658 349 $59,208 $71,689
65334 1,094 412 $65,899 $80,151
65335 175 88 $78,750 $69,993
65337 1,952 670 $71,500 $96,017
65345 376 194 $55,313 $64,399
65347 846 323 $103,125 $99,912
65350 1,455 577 $60,509 $72,303
65351 2,122 769 $55,625 $77,502

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FAQs about Pettis County demographics 

What is the total population of Pettis County?

Pettis County has a total population of 43,397 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 Pettis County?

The gender ratio in Pettis County is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (21,863 residents)
  • 49.6% females (21,534 residents)

What is the median age in Pettis County?

The median age in Pettis County is 38.2.

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

The age distribution in Pettis County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.7% (8,989 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.8% (5,540 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.5% (11,047 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.8% (10,305 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.3% (7,516 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pettis County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pettis County is as follows:
  • White: 84.2% (36,541 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.5% (1,073 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (200 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (299 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (163 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8% (3,473 residents)
  • Other: 3.8% (1,648 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.8% of the population in Pettis County.

How many housing units are there in Pettis County?

There are 18,673 housing units in Pettis 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 Pettis County and what is the average household size?

Pettis County has a total of 16,996 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pettis County?

Pettis County has a median household income of $60,430, representing a +0.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Pettis County, with a workforce of 20,105 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.4% (12,952 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.6% (7,153 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.9% (2,597 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.7% (13,613 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.7% (2,348 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.7% (1,547 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