Spanish Lake, MO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
17,873
-1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,920/yr
9.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,939
0.7% year-over-year change

Spanish Lake population

How many people live in Spanish Lake

Spanish Lake is home to 17,873 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.2% of Spanish Lake locals are male, and 55.8% are female.

Total population
17,873
-1.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.2%
7,897
Female
55.8%
9,976
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,897 44.2% -3.5%
Female 9,976 55.8% -0.3%
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 Spanish Lake is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 22% are children under 15, then 15.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
33
Age breakdown
Under 15
22%
15 to 24
15.6%
25 to 44
25%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,926 22% 3.0%
15 to 24 2,791 15.6% 6.7%
25 to 44 4,466 25% 0.4%
45 to 64 4,568 25.6% -7.6%
Over 65 2,122 11.9% -10.1%
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 Spanish Lake, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 14.1% of locals are Caucasian, 80.3% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
1.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,442 97.6% -1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 242 1.4% -2.0%
Non-citizens 189 1.1% 5.6%
Racial breakdown
White
14.1%
Black or African American
80.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 2,517 14.1%
Black or African American 14,353 80.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 17 0.1%
Asian 110 0.6%
Two or more races 716 4%
Other 160 0.9%

Households in Spanish Lake

A peek inside Spanish Lake households

Spanish Lake has 7,215 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63% are families, while the remaining 37% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,215
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,673
Family households
4,542
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,673 37% -5.8%
Family households 4,542 63% 2.6%
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 Spanish Lake

The housing landscape of Spanish Lake

Spanish Lake's housing consists of 8,939 units, with 63.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
8,939
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,702 63.8%
1 unit, attached 857 9.6%
2 units 91 1%
3 or 4 units 513 5.7%
5 to 9 units 745 8.3%
10 to 19 units 480 5.4%
20 to 49 units 200 2.2%
50 or more units 351 3.9%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Spanish Lake

In Spanish Lake, the median construction year is 1969. About 5.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 504 5.6% -14.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 238 2.7% 22.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,033 22.7% 33.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,910 21.4% -16.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,858 32% -2.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 727 8.1% 15.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 312 3.5% -26.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 284 3.2% 25.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 73 0.8% 21.7%
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.

Spanish Lake occupancy rates

Out of the 7,215 occupied housing units in Spanish Lake, 49.2% are owner-occupied, while 50.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 19.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,215
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,663
Owner occupied
3,552
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,663 50.8% -1.2%
Owner occupied 3,552 49.2% -0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
19.3%
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.

Spanish Lake housing costs

Housing costs in Spanish Lake come to a median of $1,127 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,160.

Median housing costs per month
$1,127/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 Spanish Lake
$1,160/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 Spanish Lake

Spanish Lake education at a glance

About 44.6% of the population in Spanish Lake went to high school, while 29.9% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 8.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 478 3.7% -3.2%
High school diploma 5,832 44.6% -3.7%
College diploma 3,909 29.9% -6.3%
Associate degree 1,162 8.9% -4.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,081 8.3% 11.2%
Graduate degree 605 4.6% -12.8%
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 Spanish Lake

How much people earn in Spanish Lake

The average annual household income in Spanish Lake was $70,453 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +8.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,920, reflecting a +9.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Spanish Lake
$70,453/year
8.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Spanish Lake
$55,920/year
9.4% year-over-year change

Spanish Lake income by age

In Spanish Lake, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $41,667. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,958 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,861, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,792 in earnings. Overall, 85.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,861 89.0%
25 - 44 $41,667 0.9%
45 - 64 $66,958 3.4%
Over 65 $49,792 2.8%
Above poverty level
14,713
Below poverty level
2,513
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,713 85.4% 1.2%
Below poverty level 2,513 14.6% -17.7%

Average renter income in Spanish Lake

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Spanish Lake, their median household income was $34,451 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 40.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$34,451
Rent-to-income ratio
40.4%
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 Spanish Lake

Workforce and job types in Spanish Lake

The job market in Spanish Lake is powered by 8,680 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.3% run their own businesses, 63.2% are employed by private companies, and 15.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,680
1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
6,446
Blue collar
2,234
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,446 74.3% 6.3%
Blue collar 2,234 25.7% -11.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7.3%
Private companies
63.2%
Governmental workers
15.5%
Not for profit companies
14%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 633 7.3% 32.4%
Private companies 5,490 63.2% -0.2%
Governmental workers 1,345 15.5% 0.5%
Not for profit companies 1,212 14% -3.4%
Unemployment rate
7.2%
6.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Spanish Lake stands at 7.2%, 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 Spanish Lake

How people get around in Spanish Lake

Commuting methods vary: 86.6% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,269 86.6% 2.6%
Taxicab 37 0.4% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 18 0.2% 12.5%
Walk 151 1.8% -39.1%
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.

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FAQs about Spanish Lake demographics 

What is the total population of Spanish Lake?

Spanish Lake has a total population of 17,873 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 -1.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Spanish Lake?

The gender ratio in Spanish Lake is as follows:
  • 44.2% males (7,897 residents)
  • 55.8% females (9,976 residents)

What is the median age in Spanish Lake?

The median age in Spanish Lake is 33.

What is the age distribution of the population in Spanish Lake?

The age distribution in Spanish Lake is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22% (3,926 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.6% (2,791 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25% (4,466 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (4,568 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.9% (2,122 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Spanish Lake?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Spanish Lake is as follows:
  • White: 14.1% (2,517 residents)
  • Black or African American: 80.3% (14,353 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (17 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (110 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4% (716 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (160 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in Spanish Lake.

How many housing units are there in Spanish Lake?

There are 8,939 housing units in Spanish Lake, 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 Spanish Lake and what is the average household size?

Spanish Lake has a total of 7,215 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Spanish Lake?

Spanish Lake has a median household income of $55,920, representing a +9.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Spanish Lake?

The employment rate is 92.8% in Spanish Lake, with a workforce of 8,680 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.3% (6,446 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.7% (2,234 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.3% (633 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.2% (5,490 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.5% (1,345 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 14% (1,212 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