St. Louis City County, MO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
288,512
-1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,160/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
174,111
0.1% year-over-year change

St. Louis City County population

How many people live in St. Louis City County

St. Louis City County is home to 288,512 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of St. Louis City County locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
288,512
-1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
139,796
Female
51.6%
148,716
Value Percent YoY change
Male 139,796 48.4% -1.7%
Female 148,716 51.6% -1.5%
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 St. Louis City County is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.5% are children under 15, then 11.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 34.2% of the population, while another 23.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.5%
15 to 24
11.4%
25 to 44
34.2%
45 to 64
23.3%
Over 65
15.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 44,803 15.5% -3.3%
15 to 24 33,024 11.4% -2.5%
25 to 44 98,713 34.2% -1.0%
45 to 64 67,265 23.3% -3.3%
Over 65 44,707 15.5% 2.5%
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 St. Louis City County, 92.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 45.5% of locals are Caucasian, 42.3% are African American and 3.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.8%
Non-citizens
3.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 266,253 92.3% -2.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 10,917 3.8% 7.8%
Non-citizens 11,342 3.9% -0.3%
Racial breakdown
White
45.5%
Black or African American
42.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
3.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.5%
Other
2%
Value Percent
White 131,235 45.5%
Black or African American 121,932 42.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 723 0.2%
Asian 10,200 3.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 77 0%
Two or more races 18,650 6.5%
Other 5,695 2%

Households in St. Louis City County

A peek inside St. Louis City County households

St. Louis City County has 144,891 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 41.8% are families, while the remaining 58.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
144,891
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
84,380
Family households
60,511
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 84,380 58.2% 0.9%
Family households 60,511 41.8% -0.6%
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 St. Louis City County

The housing landscape of St. Louis City County

St. Louis City County's housing consists of 174,111 units, with 43.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4% 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 0.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
174,111
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 75,554 43.4%
1 unit, attached 7,045 4%
2 units 22,401 12.9%
3 or 4 units 23,436 13.5%
5 to 9 units 8,208 4.7%
10 to 19 units 5,240 3%
20 to 49 units 8,005 4.6%
50 or more units 23,281 13.4%
Mobile home 840 0.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 101 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
750
86.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in St. Louis City County

In St. Louis City County, the median construction year is 1938. About 57.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.3% 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 100,811 57.9% -0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 12,735 7.3% -3.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 17,877 10.3% 6.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 11,137 6.4% 4.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 7,526 4.3% 0.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,851 3.4% -8.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,730 2.7% -9.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7,004 4% -0.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,690 3.3% 3.5%
Built in 2020 or later 750 0.4% 86.1%
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.

St. Louis City County occupancy rates

Out of the 144,891 occupied housing units in St. Louis City County, 45.3% are owner-occupied, while 54.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
144,891
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
79,279
Owner occupied
65,612
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 79,279 54.7% 0.4%
Owner occupied 65,612 45.3% 0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
16.8%
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.

St. Louis City County housing costs

Housing costs in St. Louis City County come to a median of $1,038 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $997.

Median housing costs per month
$1,038/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 St. Louis City County
$997/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 St. Louis City County

St. Louis City County education at a glance

About 31.1% of the population in St. Louis City County went to high school, while 20.8% pursued college studies. Another 6.2% earned an associate degree and 22.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 6,456 2.7% -5.6%
High school diploma 73,367 31.1% -2.4%
College diploma 49,014 20.8% -5.1%
Associate degree 14,627 6.2% 6.8%
Bachelor's degree 52,345 22.2% 1.1%
Graduate degree 39,833 16.9% 0.7%
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 St. Louis City County

How much people earn in St. Louis City County

The average annual household income in St. Louis City County was $81,764 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,160, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in St. Louis City County
$81,764/year
4.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in St. Louis City County
$56,160/year
1.6% year-over-year change

St. Louis City County income by age

In St. Louis City County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,003. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $55,088 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,524, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $41,674 in earnings. Overall, 79.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,524 5.0%
25 - 44 $70,003 2.4%
45 - 64 $55,088 2.0%
Over 65 $41,674 6.0%
Above poverty level
219,641
Below poverty level
56,905
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 219,641 79.4% -2.5%
Below poverty level 56,905 20.6% 2.7%

Employment in St. Louis City County

Workforce and job types in St. Louis City County

The job market in St. Louis City County is powered by 151,624 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.2% run their own businesses, 63.8% are employed by private companies, and 11.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
151,624
-1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
128,307
Blue collar
23,317
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 128,307 84.6% -1.1%
Blue collar 23,317 15.4% -3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
8.2%
Private companies
63.8%
Governmental workers
11.6%
Not for profit companies
16.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 12,394 8.2% 5.3%
Private companies 96,684 63.8% -2.4%
Governmental workers 17,617 11.6% 4.5%
Not for profit companies 24,929 16.4% -4.7%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
-1.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in St. Louis City County stands at 5%, 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 St. Louis City County

How people get around in St. Louis City County

In St. Louis City County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 70.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
-0.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 105,505 70.8% -4.8%
Taxicab 711 0.5% 52.9%
Bus or trolleybus 7,454 5% 12.9%
Subway or elevated 608 0.4% N/A
Railroad 148 0.1% 28.7%
Motorcycle 115 0.1% -8.7%
Bicycle 1,419 1% 3.9%
Walk 5,703 3.8% -5.6%
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 St. Louis City County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
63101 3,130 2,130 $66,678 $91,516
63102 2,882 1,753 $65,527 $83,576
63103 8,778 5,204 $40,943 $64,795
63104 19,007 9,888 $68,764 $114,267
63106 6,751 3,342 $20,679 $36,966
63107 8,909 4,001 $43,625 $49,047
63108 21,336 11,414 $55,147 $104,893
63109 25,236 14,080 $69,938 $91,676
63110 17,645 9,156 $81,655 $112,597
63111 18,851 8,959 $47,039 $60,016

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FAQs about St. Louis City County demographics 

What is the total population of St. Louis City County?

St. Louis City County has a total population of 288,512 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 -1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in St. Louis City County?

The gender ratio in St. Louis City County is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (139,796 residents)
  • 51.6% females (148,716 residents)

What is the median age in St. Louis City County?

The median age in St. Louis City County is 36.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in St. Louis City County?

The age distribution in St. Louis City County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.5% (44,803 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.4% (33,024 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 34.2% (98,713 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.3% (67,265 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.5% (44,707 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of St. Louis City County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of St. Louis City County is as follows:
  • White: 45.5% (131,235 residents)
  • Black or African American: 42.3% (121,932 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (723 residents)
  • Asian: 3.5% (10,200 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (77 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.5% (18,650 residents)
  • Other: 2% (5,695 residents)

What percentage of the population in St. Louis City County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.3% of the population in St. Louis City County.

How many housing units are there in St. Louis City County?

There are 174,111 housing units in St. Louis City 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 St. Louis City County and what is the average household size?

St. Louis City County has a total of 144,891 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in St. Louis City County?

St. Louis City County has a median household income of $56,160, representing a +1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for St. Louis City County?

The employment rate is 95% in St. Louis City County, with a workforce of 151,624 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.6% (128,307 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.4% (23,317 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.2% (12,394 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.8% (96,684 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.6% (17,617 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 16.4% (24,929 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