Poplar Bluff, MO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,254
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$41,941/yr
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,711
0.7% year-over-year change

Poplar Bluff population

How many people live in Poplar Bluff

Poplar Bluff is home to 16,254 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of Poplar Bluff locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
16,254
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
7,829
Female
51.8%
8,425
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,829 48.2% 2.8%
Female 8,425 51.8% -2.4%
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 Poplar Bluff is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.2% are children under 15, then 12.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.8% of the population, while another 22% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.2%
15 to 24
12.9%
25 to 44
25.8%
45 to 64
22%
Over 65
20.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,114 19.2% -5.3%
15 to 24 2,091 12.9% 2.3%
25 to 44 4,201 25.8% -2.1%
45 to 64 3,580 22% 1.4%
Over 65 3,268 20.1% 5.8%
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 Poplar Bluff, 97.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.9% of locals are Caucasian, 9.1% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,791 97.2% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 358 2.2% -14.8%
Non-citizens 105 0.6% -21.1%
Racial breakdown
White
79.9%
Black or African American
9.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.8%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 12,981 79.9%
Black or African American 1,479 9.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 76 0.5%
Asian 150 0.9%
Two or more races 1,270 7.8%
Other 298 1.8%

Households in Poplar Bluff

A peek inside Poplar Bluff households

Poplar Bluff has 6,504 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.7% are families, while the remaining 43.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,504
2.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,815
Family households
3,689
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,815 43.3% -0.5%
Family households 3,689 56.7% 5.3%
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 Poplar Bluff

The housing landscape of Poplar Bluff

Poplar Bluff's housing consists of 7,711 units, with 75% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.6% 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 1.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,711
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,781 75%
1 unit, attached 121 1.6%
2 units 636 8.2%
3 or 4 units 587 7.6%
5 to 9 units 280 3.6%
10 to 19 units 74 1%
20 to 49 units 64 0.8%
50 or more units 74 1%
Mobile home 94 1.2%
Homes built since 2020
32
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Poplar Bluff

In Poplar Bluff, the median construction year is 1972. About 12.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 959 12.4% -2.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 449 5.8% 20.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 821 10.6% -8.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,254 16.3% -8.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,694 22% -1.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 845 11% 2.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 532 6.9% 11.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 827 10.7% 8.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 298 3.9% 25.7%
Built in 2020 or later 32 0.4% N/A
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.

Poplar Bluff occupancy rates

Out of the 6,504 occupied housing units in Poplar Bluff, 53.1% are owner-occupied, while 46.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,504
2.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,053
Owner occupied
3,451
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,053 46.9% -0.9%
Owner occupied 3,451 53.1% 6.1%
Unoccupied housing units
15.7%
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.

Poplar Bluff housing costs

Housing costs in Poplar Bluff come to a median of $733 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $760.

Median housing costs per month
$733/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 Poplar Bluff
$760/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 Poplar Bluff

Poplar Bluff education at a glance

About 56.4% of the population in Poplar Bluff went to high school, while 19.6% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 8.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 396 3.2% -21.4%
High school diploma 7,022 56.4% 3.2%
College diploma 2,435 19.6% 1.7%
Associate degree 957 7.7% 12.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,081 8.7% -9.5%
Graduate degree 551 4.4% -5.8%
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 Poplar Bluff

How much people earn in Poplar Bluff

The average annual household income in Poplar Bluff was $54,648 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 $41,941, reflecting a -0.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Poplar Bluff
$54,648/year
-1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Poplar Bluff
$41,941/year
-0.2% year-over-year change

Poplar Bluff income by age

In Poplar Bluff, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,636. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $40,015 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $25,804, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $29,313 in earnings. Overall, 79.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $25,804 N/A
25 - 44 $53,636 4.3%
45 - 64 $40,015 -3.6%
Over 65 $29,313 7.4%
Above poverty level
12,294
Below poverty level
3,204
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,294 79.3% 3.8%
Below poverty level 3,204 20.7% -10.8%

Average renter income in Poplar Bluff

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Poplar Bluff, their median household income was $21,277 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 42.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$21,277
Rent-to-income ratio
42.9%
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 Poplar Bluff

Workforce and job types in Poplar Bluff

The job market in Poplar Bluff is powered by 6,316 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.6% run their own businesses, 79.1% are employed by private companies, and 8.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,316
-1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
4,258
Blue collar
2,058
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,258 67.4% -1.7%
Blue collar 2,058 32.6% 0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
5.6%
Private companies
79.1%
Governmental workers
8.7%
Not for profit companies
6.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 357 5.6% -5.3%
Private companies 4,995 79.1% -0.1%
Governmental workers 549 8.7% -22.1%
Not for profit companies 415 6.6% 37.4%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
-25.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Poplar Bluff stands at 4.9%, 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 Poplar Bluff

How people get around in Poplar Bluff

In Poplar Bluff, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
6.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,799 92.5% -0.1%
Bus or trolleybus 48 0.8% 14.3%
Motorcycle 11 0.2% -15.4%
Walk 111 1.8% -30.6%
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 Poplar Bluff by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
63901 35,324 13,819 $51,152 $66,279

Explore more communities

FAQs about Poplar Bluff demographics 

What is the total population of Poplar Bluff?

Poplar Bluff has a total population of 16,254 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Poplar Bluff?

The gender ratio in Poplar Bluff is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (7,829 residents)
  • 51.8% females (8,425 residents)

What is the median age in Poplar Bluff?

The median age in Poplar Bluff is 37.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Poplar Bluff?

The age distribution in Poplar Bluff is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.2% (3,114 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.9% (2,091 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.8% (4,201 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22% (3,580 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.1% (3,268 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Poplar Bluff?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Poplar Bluff is as follows:
  • White: 79.9% (12,981 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.1% (1,479 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (76 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (150 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.8% (1,270 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (298 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.2% of the population in Poplar Bluff.

How many housing units are there in Poplar Bluff?

There are 7,711 housing units in Poplar Bluff, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Poplar Bluff has a total of 6,504 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Poplar Bluff?

Poplar Bluff has a median household income of $41,941, representing a -0.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Poplar Bluff?

The employment rate is 95.1% in Poplar Bluff, with a workforce of 6,316 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.4% (4,258 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.6% (2,058 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.6% (357 residents)
  • Private companies: 79.1% (4,995 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.7% (549 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.6% (415 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