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

Total population
17,380
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$123,000/yr
-4.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,934
6.7% year-over-year change

Clayton population

How many people live in Clayton

Clayton is home to 17,380 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.6% of Clayton locals are male, and 49.4% are female.

Total population
17,380
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.6%
8,792
Female
49.4%
8,588
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,792 50.6% 6.1%
Female 8,588 49.4% -4.5%
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 Clayton is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.7% are children under 15, then 30.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22% of the population, while another 20.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
30
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.7%
15 to 24
30.8%
25 to 44
22%
45 to 64
20.5%
Over 65
13.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,211 12.7% -5.3%
15 to 24 5,360 30.8% -4.4%
25 to 44 3,821 22% 4.0%
45 to 64 3,570 20.5% 4.0%
Over 65 2,418 13.9% 8.2%
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 Clayton, 84.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 67.5% of locals are Caucasian, 8.8% are African American and 13.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6%
Non-citizens
9.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 14,697 84.6% 1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,048 6% -12.7%
Non-citizens 1,635 9.4% -1.8%
Racial breakdown
White
67.5%
Black or African American
8.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
13.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.1%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 11,734 67.5%
Black or African American 1,531 8.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 56 0.3%
Asian 2,306 13.3%
Two or more races 1,584 9.1%
Other 169 1%

Households in Clayton

A peek inside Clayton households

Clayton has 6,222 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.1% are families, while the remaining 48.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,222
4.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,042
Family households
3,180
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,042 48.9% 10.1%
Family households 3,180 51.1% -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 Clayton

The housing landscape of Clayton

Clayton's housing consists of 6,934 units, with 31.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.1% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
6,934
6.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,184 31.5%
1 unit, attached 217 3.1%
2 units 91 1.3%
3 or 4 units 1,077 15.5%
5 to 9 units 1,221 17.6%
10 to 19 units 639 9.2%
20 to 49 units 330 4.8%
50 or more units 1,175 17%
Homes built since 2020
47
370.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Clayton

In Clayton, the median construction year is 1954. About 35.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,433 35.1% 2.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 714 10.3% 10.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 837 12.1% 11.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 533 7.7% -6.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 408 5.9% 49.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 233 3.4% -4.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 355 5.1% 39.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 859 12.4% 1.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 515 7.4% -4.5%
Built in 2020 or later 47 0.7% 370.0%
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.

Clayton occupancy rates

Out of the 6,222 occupied housing units in Clayton, 54.8% are owner-occupied, while 45.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,222
4.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,809
Owner occupied
3,413
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,809 45.2% 3.9%
Owner occupied 3,413 54.8% 4.7%
Unoccupied housing units
10.3%
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.

Clayton housing costs

Housing costs in Clayton come to a median of $2,044 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,692.

Median housing costs per month
$2,044/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 Clayton
$1,692/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 Clayton

Clayton education at a glance

About 14.6% of the population in Clayton went to high school, while 21.5% pursued college studies. Another 0.8% earned an associate degree and 26.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 35.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 90 0.6% 20.0%
High school diploma 2,094 14.6% -3.8%
College diploma 3,083 21.5% -5.1%
Associate degree 109 0.8% -21.0%
Bachelor's degree 3,840 26.8% 11.9%
Graduate degree 5,094 35.6% 1.2%
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 Clayton

How much people earn in Clayton

The average annual household income in Clayton was $205,487 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -5.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $123,000, reflecting a -4.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Clayton
$205,487/year
-5.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Clayton
$123,000/year
-4.6% year-over-year change

Clayton income by age

In Clayton, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $122,518. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $156,179 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $122,639 in earnings. Overall, 92% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,750 1.5%
25 - 44 $122,518 5.9%
45 - 64 $156,179 -7.9%
Over 65 $122,639 -17.2%
Above poverty level
11,822
Below poverty level
1,031
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,822 92% 1.9%
Below poverty level 1,031 8% -0.6%

Average renter income in Clayton

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Clayton, their median household income was $72,734 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$72,734
Rent-to-income ratio
27.9%
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 Clayton

Workforce and job types in Clayton

The job market in Clayton is powered by 7,712 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 98.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 1.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.5% run their own businesses, 51.9% are employed by private companies, and 8.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,712
-0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
7,583
Blue collar
129
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,583 98.3% -0.3%
Blue collar 129 1.7% -23.7%
Employer type
Self employees
13.5%
Private companies
51.9%
Governmental workers
8.8%
Not for profit companies
25.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,039 13.5% 11.6%
Private companies 4,000 51.9% -3.7%
Governmental workers 678 8.8% -0.6%
Not for profit companies 1,995 25.9% -0.8%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
40.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Clayton stands at 3.6%, 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 Clayton

How people get around in Clayton

Commuting methods vary: 62.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 10.1% 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 4,758 62.9% -2.9%
Taxicab 13 0.2% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 63 0.8% -32.3%
Railroad 27 0.4% N/A
Bicycle 137 1.8% 12.3%
Walk 761 10.1% -18.4%
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 Clayton by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
63105 18,875 7,088 $116,439 $195,951

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FAQs about Clayton demographics 

What is the total population of Clayton?

Clayton has a total population of 17,380 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Clayton?

The gender ratio in Clayton is as follows:
  • 50.6% males (8,792 residents)
  • 49.4% females (8,588 residents)

What is the median age in Clayton?

The median age in Clayton is 30.

What is the age distribution of the population in Clayton?

The age distribution in Clayton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.7% (2,211 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 30.8% (5,360 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22% (3,821 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.5% (3,570 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.9% (2,418 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Clayton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Clayton is as follows:
  • White: 67.5% (11,734 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.8% (1,531 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (56 residents)
  • Asian: 13.3% (2,306 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.1% (1,584 residents)
  • Other: 1% (169 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.6% of the population in Clayton.

How many housing units are there in Clayton?

There are 6,934 housing units in Clayton, reflecting a +6.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Clayton has a total of 6,222 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Clayton?

Clayton has a median household income of $123,000, representing a -4.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in Clayton, with a workforce of 7,712 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 98.3% (7,583 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 1.7% (129 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.5% (1,039 residents)
  • Private companies: 51.9% (4,000 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.8% (678 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 25.9% (1,995 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