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

Total population
23,145
-0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,573/yr
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,931
0.3% year-over-year change

Ray County population

How many people live in Ray County

Ray County is home to 23,145 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Ray County locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
23,145
-0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
11,765
Female
49.2%
11,380
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,765 50.8% 0.6%
Female 11,380 49.2% -0.7%
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 Ray County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.6% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.1% of the population, while another 27.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.6%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
23.1%
45 to 64
27.5%
Over 65
19.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,302 18.6% -0.7%
15 to 24 2,661 11.5% 1.9%
25 to 44 5,352 23.1% -0.2%
45 to 64 6,362 27.5% -2.2%
Over 65 4,468 19.3% 2.9%
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 Ray County, 97.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.6% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 22,618 97.7% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 393 1.7% 1.0%
Non-citizens 134 0.6% 7.2%
Racial breakdown
White
92.6%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.1%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 21,423 92.6%
Black or African American 182 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 317 1.4%
Asian 76 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2 0%
Two or more races 943 4.1%
Other 202 0.9%

Households in Ray County

A peek inside Ray County households

Ray County has 9,116 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.3% are families, while the remaining 31.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,116
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,887
Family households
6,229
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,887 31.7% 7.7%
Family households 6,229 68.3% -2.1%
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 Ray County

The housing landscape of Ray County

Ray County's housing consists of 9,931 units, with 84.2% 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 4.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,931
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,364 84.2%
1 unit, attached 89 0.9%
2 units 324 3.3%
3 or 4 units 505 5.1%
5 to 9 units 94 1%
10 to 19 units 89 0.9%
20 to 49 units 10 0.1%
50 or more units 9 0.1%
Mobile home 433 4.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 14 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
44
37.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ray County

In Ray County, the median construction year is 1974. About 13.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.4% 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 1,380 13.9% 10.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 527 5.3% 27.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,188 12% -10.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,196 12% -12.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,604 16.2% 11.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,218 12.3% -9.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,171 11.8% -11.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,270 12.8% 16.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 333 3.4% 2.5%
Built in 2020 or later 44 0.4% 37.5%
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.

Ray County occupancy rates

Out of the 9,116 occupied housing units in Ray County, 77.3% are owner-occupied, while 22.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,116
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,073
Owner occupied
7,043
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,073 22.7% 1.7%
Owner occupied 7,043 77.3% 0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
8.2%
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.

Ray County housing costs

Housing costs in Ray County come to a median of $875 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $782.

Median housing costs per month
$875/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 Ray County
$782/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 Ray County

Ray County education at a glance

About 51.1% of the population in Ray County went to high school, while 23.4% pursued college studies. Another 7.9% earned an associate degree and 10.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 450 2.5% -3.4%
High school diploma 9,128 51.1% -0.8%
College diploma 4,177 23.4% -3.8%
Associate degree 1,412 7.9% 4.4%
Bachelor's degree 1,859 10.4% 1.5%
Graduate degree 848 4.7% 24.5%
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 Ray County

How much people earn in Ray County

The average annual household income in Ray County was $92,339 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,573, reflecting a +3.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ray County
$92,339/year
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ray County
$74,573/year
3.4% year-over-year change

Ray County income by age

In Ray County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,582. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,397 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,938, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,640 in earnings. Overall, 87.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,938 -3.5%
25 - 44 $86,582 11.2%
45 - 64 $87,397 2.4%
Over 65 $54,640 -1.6%
Above poverty level
19,898
Below poverty level
2,849
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 19,898 87.5% -0.3%
Below poverty level 2,849 12.5% 4.1%

Employment in Ray County

Workforce and job types in Ray County

The job market in Ray County is powered by 10,844 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.8% run their own businesses, 67.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,844
-1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
6,832
Blue collar
4,012
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,832 63% -3.9%
Blue collar 4,012 37% 4.0%
Employer type
Self employees
10.8%
Private companies
67.7%
Governmental workers
12.1%
Not for profit companies
9.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,170 10.8% 4.7%
Private companies 7,343 67.7% -1.6%
Governmental workers 1,316 12.1% -9.7%
Not for profit companies 1,015 9.4% 8.9%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
62.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ray County stands at 3.4%, 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 Ray County

How people get around in Ray County

Commuting methods vary: 86.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% 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 9,261 86.5% -1.8%
Taxicab 3 0% -25.0%
Bus or trolleybus 101 0.9% 48.5%
Ferryboat 1 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 5 0% 0.0%
Walk 96 0.9% -25.0%
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 Ray County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
64017 335 139 $68,239 $79,834
64024 15,574 5,662 $77,895 $86,640
64035 1,189 475 $86,756 $93,459
64036 610 198 $46,786 $47,299
64062 6,968 2,369 $92,277 $123,455
64077 1,665 647 $75,956 $95,167
64084 1,380 573 $65,060 $91,584
64085 7,855 3,505 $64,096 $76,892
64624 1,489 638 $58,095 $68,225
64637 492 224 $56,944 $66,420

Explore more communities

FAQs about Ray County demographics 

What is the total population of Ray County?

Ray County has a total population of 23,145 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 -0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Ray County?

The gender ratio in Ray County is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (11,765 residents)
  • 49.2% females (11,380 residents)

What is the median age in Ray County?

The median age in Ray County is 41.9.

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

The age distribution in Ray County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.6% (4,302 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (2,661 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.1% (5,352 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.5% (6,362 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.3% (4,468 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ray County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ray County is as follows:
  • White: 92.6% (21,423 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (182 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (317 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (76 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (2 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.1% (943 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (202 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.7% of the population in Ray County.

How many housing units are there in Ray County?

There are 9,931 housing units in Ray 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 Ray County and what is the average household size?

Ray County has a total of 9,116 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ray County?

Ray County has a median household income of $74,573, representing a +3.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.6% in Ray County, with a workforce of 10,844 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63% (6,832 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37% (4,012 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.8% (1,170 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.7% (7,343 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.1% (1,316 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.4% (1,015 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