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

Total population
19,687
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,230/yr
-4.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,928
-0.2% year-over-year change

Vernon County population

How many people live in Vernon County

Vernon County is home to 19,687 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Vernon County locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
19,687
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
9,689
Female
50.8%
9,998
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,689 49.2% 0.2%
Female 9,998 50.8% -0.4%
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 Vernon County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.6% of the population, while another 24.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
22.6%
45 to 64
24.8%
Over 65
20.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,842 19.5% 0.1%
15 to 24 2,459 12.5% -1.0%
25 to 44 4,455 22.6% 2.1%
45 to 64 4,883 24.8% -2.5%
Over 65 4,048 20.6% 0.7%
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 Vernon County, 97.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 93.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.9% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,181 97.4% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 172 0.9% 2.4%
Non-citizens 334 1.7% 38.0%
Racial breakdown
White
93.1%
Black or African American
0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.6%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 18,326 93.1%
Black or African American 177 0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 24 0.1%
Asian 155 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 699 3.6%
Other 305 1.6%

Households in Vernon County

A peek inside Vernon County households

Vernon County has 7,754 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.1% are families, while the remaining 40.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,754
-0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,168
Family households
4,586
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,168 40.9% 2.9%
Family households 4,586 59.1% -3.1%
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 Vernon County

The housing landscape of Vernon County

Vernon County's housing consists of 8,928 units, with 78.1% 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 9.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,928
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,973 78.1%
1 unit, attached 78 0.9%
2 units 384 4.3%
3 or 4 units 404 4.5%
5 to 9 units 67 0.8%
10 to 19 units 76 0.8%
20 to 49 units 68 0.8%
Mobile home 878 9.8%
Homes built since 2020
71
108.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Vernon County

In Vernon County, the median construction year is 1976. About 19% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,701 19% 2.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 450 5% -22.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 888 10% 14.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 740 8.3% -13.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,117 12.5% -15.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,052 11.8% -1.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,252 14% 10.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,063 11.9% 8.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 594 6.6% 10.4%
Built in 2020 or later 71 0.8% 108.8%
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.

Vernon County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,754 occupied housing units in Vernon County, 71.3% are owner-occupied, while 28.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,754
-0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,226
Owner occupied
5,528
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,226 28.7% 4.0%
Owner occupied 5,528 71.3% -2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
13.1%
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.

Vernon County housing costs

Housing costs in Vernon County come to a median of $703 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $734.

Median housing costs per month
$703/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 Vernon County
$734/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 Vernon County

Vernon County education at a glance

About 48.4% of the population in Vernon County went to high school, while 20.5% pursued college studies. Another 11.7% earned an associate degree and 9.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 646 4.3% -13.9%
High school diploma 7,254 48.4% 4.6%
College diploma 3,076 20.5% -2.0%
Associate degree 1,755 11.7% 10.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,453 9.7% -12.7%
Graduate degree 809 5.4% -13.1%
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 Vernon County

How much people earn in Vernon County

The average annual household income in Vernon County was $65,264 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,230, reflecting a -4.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Vernon County
$65,264/year
-1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Vernon County
$52,230/year
-4.2% year-over-year change

Vernon County income by age

In Vernon County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,418. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $58,139 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,654, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,539 in earnings. Overall, 81.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,654 -26.1%
25 - 44 $62,418 -0.5%
45 - 64 $58,139 -2.7%
Over 65 $46,539 1.3%
Above poverty level
15,280
Below poverty level
3,559
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,280 81.1% 0.4%
Below poverty level 3,559 18.9% -0.2%

Employment in Vernon County

Workforce and job types in Vernon County

The job market in Vernon County is powered by 8,482 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.2% run their own businesses, 59.7% are employed by private companies, and 13.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,482
-0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
5,914
Blue collar
2,568
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,914 69.7% -2.7%
Blue collar 2,568 30.3% 5.9%
Employer type
Self employees
14.2%
Private companies
59.7%
Governmental workers
13.8%
Not for profit companies
12.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,202 14.2% -10.7%
Private companies 5,066 59.7% 4.7%
Governmental workers 1,166 13.8% -15.9%
Not for profit companies 1,048 12.4% 12.8%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
9.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Vernon County stands at 4.2%, 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 Vernon County

How people get around in Vernon County

Commuting methods vary: 82.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% 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 6,842 82.6% 0.6%
Bus or trolleybus 5 0.1% 66.7%
Ferryboat 9 0.1% 12.5%
Motorcycle 3 0% 0.0%
Bicycle 92 1.1% 22.7%
Walk 194 2.3% -13.4%
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 Vernon County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
64728 445 161 $67,188 $81,526
64741 308 111 $44,271 $46,405
64744 8,242 3,349 $47,685 $69,614
64750 439 122 $0 $71,280
64752 545 206 $66,875 $74,150
64765 7 5 $0 $0
64767 418 161 $36,813 $51,283
64771 490 195 $61,645 $68,980
64772 12,824 5,337 $51,872 $65,398
64778 422 152 $59,737 $75,831

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FAQs about Vernon County demographics 

What is the total population of Vernon County?

Vernon County has a total population of 19,687 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Vernon County?

The gender ratio in Vernon County is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (9,689 residents)
  • 50.8% females (9,998 residents)

What is the median age in Vernon County?

The median age in Vernon County is 41.9.

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

The age distribution in Vernon County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (3,842 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (2,459 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.6% (4,455 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.8% (4,883 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.6% (4,048 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Vernon County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Vernon County is as follows:
  • White: 93.1% (18,326 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.9% (177 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (24 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (155 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.6% (699 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (305 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.4% of the population in Vernon County.

How many housing units are there in Vernon County?

There are 8,928 housing units in Vernon County, reflecting a -0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Vernon County has a total of 7,754 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Vernon County?

Vernon County has a median household income of $52,230, representing a -4.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.8% in Vernon County, with a workforce of 8,482 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.7% (5,914 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.3% (2,568 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.2% (1,202 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.7% (5,066 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.8% (1,166 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.4% (1,048 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