Vandalia, MO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,140
-3.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,313/yr
-14.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,264
6.8% year-over-year change

Vandalia population

How many people live in Vandalia

Vandalia is home to 3,140 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 42.2% of Vandalia locals are male, and 57.8% are female.

Total population
3,140
-3.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
42.2%
1,325
Female
57.8%
1,815
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,325 42.2% 2.0%
Female 1,815 57.8% -7.5%
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 Vandalia is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.8% are children under 15, then 11.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 35.7% of the population, while another 26.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.8%
15 to 24
11.1%
25 to 44
35.7%
45 to 64
26.5%
Over 65
14.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 370 11.8% -0.5%
15 to 24 348 11.1% -5.7%
25 to 44 1,122 35.7% -8.6%
45 to 64 833 26.5% -5.3%
Over 65 467 14.9% 13.6%
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 Vandalia, 97.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82.1% of locals are Caucasian, 8.6% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.5%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,073 97.9% -3.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 46 1.5% -41.8%
Non-citizens 21 0.7% 75.0%
Racial breakdown
White
82.1%
Black or African American
8.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
8.3%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 2,578 82.1%
Black or African American 269 8.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5 0.2%
Asian 13 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 8 0.2%
Two or more races 262 8.3%
Other 5 0.2%

Households in Vandalia

A peek inside Vandalia households

Vandalia has 1,054 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 47.2% are families, while the remaining 52.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,054
8.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
557
Family households
497
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 557 52.8% 18.5%
Family households 497 47.2% -1.0%
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 Vandalia

The housing landscape of Vandalia

Vandalia's housing consists of 1,264 units, with 82.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1% 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 10.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,264
6.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,040 82.3%
1 unit, attached 13 1%
2 units 38 3%
3 or 4 units 34 2.7%
5 to 9 units 6 0.5%
10 to 19 units 4 0.3%
Mobile home 129 10.2%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Vandalia

In Vandalia, the median construction year is 1959. About 24.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.6% 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 310 24.5% 3.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 96 7.6% 60.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 265 21% 10.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 160 12.7% 4.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 206 16.3% -7.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 29 2.3% -6.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 174 13.8% 12.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 24 1.9% 14.3%
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.

Vandalia occupancy rates

Out of the 1,054 occupied housing units in Vandalia, 64.8% are owner-occupied, while 35.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,054
8.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
371
Owner occupied
683
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 371 35.2% 18.9%
Owner occupied 683 64.8% 3.5%
Unoccupied housing units
16.6%
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.

Vandalia housing costs

Housing costs in Vandalia come to a median of $601 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $814.

Median housing costs per month
$601/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 Vandalia
$814/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 Vandalia

Vandalia education at a glance

About 56.9% of the population in Vandalia went to high school, while 24.4% pursued college studies. Another 6.2% earned an associate degree and 3.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 140 5.2% 30.8%
High school diploma 1,545 56.9% -1.9%
College diploma 661 24.4% -6.5%
Associate degree 169 6.2% -12.0%
Bachelor's degree 103 3.8% -18.9%
Graduate degree 96 3.5% 0.0%
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 Vandalia

How much people earn in Vandalia

The average annual household income in Vandalia was $58,678 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -5.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,313, reflecting a -14.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Vandalia
$58,678/year
-5.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Vandalia
$50,313/year
-14.2% year-over-year change

Vandalia income by age

In Vandalia, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,056. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $62,727 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $73,938, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $35,852 in earnings. Overall, 86.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $73,938 N/A
25 - 44 $63,056 -1.0%
45 - 64 $62,727 -1.7%
Over 65 $35,852 1.8%
Above poverty level
1,925
Below poverty level
302
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,925 86.4% -2.7%
Below poverty level 302 13.6% -15.6%

Average renter income in Vandalia

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Vandalia, their median household income was $29,500 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$29,500
Rent-to-income ratio
33.1%
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 Vandalia

Workforce and job types in Vandalia

The job market in Vandalia is powered by 1,135 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 61.9% are employed by private companies, and 18.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,135
-7.0% year-over-year change
White collar
741
Blue collar
394
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 741 65.3% -2.2%
Blue collar 394 34.7% -14.7%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
61.9%
Governmental workers
18.8%
Not for profit companies
10%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 106 9.3% 32.5%
Private companies 703 61.9% -13.2%
Governmental workers 213 18.8% -7.0%
Not for profit companies 113 10% 11.9%
Unemployment rate
2.0%
0.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Vandalia stands at 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 Vandalia

How people get around in Vandalia

Commuting methods vary: 97.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% 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 1,094 97.2% -7.9%
Walk 13 1.2% 30.0%
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 Vandalia by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
63382 4,033 1,363 $60,733 $62,857

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FAQs about Vandalia demographics 

What is the total population of Vandalia?

Vandalia has a total population of 3,140 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 -3.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Vandalia?

The gender ratio in Vandalia is as follows:
  • 42.2% males (1,325 residents)
  • 57.8% females (1,815 residents)

What is the median age in Vandalia?

The median age in Vandalia is 40.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Vandalia?

The age distribution in Vandalia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.8% (370 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.1% (348 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 35.7% (1,122 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.5% (833 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.9% (467 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Vandalia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Vandalia is as follows:
  • White: 82.1% (2,578 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.6% (269 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (5 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (13 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (8 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.3% (262 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (5 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.9% of the population in Vandalia.

How many housing units are there in Vandalia?

There are 1,264 housing units in Vandalia, reflecting a +6.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Vandalia has a total of 1,054 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Vandalia?

Vandalia has a median household income of $50,313, representing a -14.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 98% in Vandalia, with a workforce of 1,135 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.3% (741 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.7% (394 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (106 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.9% (703 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.8% (213 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10% (113 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