Waynesville, MO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,442
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,836/yr
-24.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,420
-11.8% year-over-year change

Waynesville population

How many people live in Waynesville

Waynesville is home to 5,442 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Waynesville locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
5,442
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
2,687
Female
50.6%
2,755
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,687 49.4% 1.6%
Female 2,755 50.6% -0.8%
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 Waynesville is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.6% are children under 15, then 9.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 33.9% of the population, while another 16.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.6%
15 to 24
9.8%
25 to 44
33.9%
45 to 64
16.6%
Over 65
17.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,227 22.6% 9.5%
15 to 24 536 9.8% 18.6%
25 to 44 1,843 33.9% -7.3%
45 to 64 902 16.6% 1.1%
Over 65 934 17.2% -3.6%
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 Waynesville, 91.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 78.9% of locals are Caucasian, 4.8% are African American and 2.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.1%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,981 91.5% 1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 384 7.1% -7.5%
Non-citizens 77 1.4% 0.0%
Racial breakdown
White
78.9%
Black or African American
4.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.6%
Other
0.1%
Value Percent
White 4,296 78.9%
Black or African American 259 4.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 33 0.6%
Asian 159 2.9%
Two or more races 688 12.6%
Other 7 0.1%

Households in Waynesville

A peek inside Waynesville households

Waynesville has 2,201 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.3% are families, while the remaining 35.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,201
-7.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
785
Family households
1,416
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 785 35.7% -19.5%
Family households 1,416 64.3% 0.3%
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 Waynesville

The housing landscape of Waynesville

Waynesville's housing consists of 2,420 units, with 73.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.4% 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 5.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,420
-11.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,781 73.6%
1 unit, attached 59 2.4%
2 units 222 9.2%
3 or 4 units 129 5.3%
5 to 9 units 41 1.7%
10 to 19 units 20 0.8%
50 or more units 29 1.2%
Mobile home 139 5.7%
Homes built since 2020
18
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Waynesville

In Waynesville, the median construction year is 1985. About 4.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.6% 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 100 4.1% -8.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 49 2% 6.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 252 10.4% -44.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 212 8.8% -7.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 385 15.9% -25.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 413 17.1% 63.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 166 6.9% -2.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 495 20.4% -20.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 330 13.6% -5.4%
Built in 2020 or later 18 0.7% N/A
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.

Waynesville occupancy rates

Out of the 2,201 occupied housing units in Waynesville, 62.9% are owner-occupied, while 37.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,201
-7.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
817
Owner occupied
1,384
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 817 37.1% -12.4%
Owner occupied 1,384 62.9% -4.8%
Unoccupied housing units
9.0%
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.

Waynesville housing costs

Housing costs in Waynesville come to a median of $788 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,152.

Median housing costs per month
$788/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 Waynesville
$1,152/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 Waynesville

Waynesville education at a glance

About 33.8% of the population in Waynesville went to high school, while 19.3% pursued college studies. Another 13.1% earned an associate degree and 20.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 31 0.8% -20.5%
High school diploma 1,358 33.8% 16.0%
College diploma 773 19.3% -9.8%
Associate degree 526 13.1% 12.6%
Bachelor's degree 818 20.4% -14.9%
Graduate degree 508 12.7% -19.0%
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 Waynesville

How much people earn in Waynesville

The average annual household income in Waynesville was $71,223 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,836, reflecting a -24.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Waynesville
$71,223/year
-4.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Waynesville
$56,836/year
-24.4% year-over-year change

Waynesville income by age

In Waynesville, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,692. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $100,096 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $115,679, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $34,640 in earnings. Overall, 83.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $115,679 N/A
25 - 44 $70,692 -17.5%
45 - 64 $100,096 2.1%
Over 65 $34,640 -1.7%
Above poverty level
4,065
Below poverty level
818
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,065 83.2% -8.8%
Below poverty level 818 16.8% 33.2%

Average renter income in Waynesville

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Waynesville, their median household income was $35,635 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 38.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$35,635
Rent-to-income ratio
38.8%
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 Waynesville

Workforce and job types in Waynesville

The job market in Waynesville is powered by 2,213 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 30.2% are employed by private companies, and 55.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,213
3.0% year-over-year change
White collar
1,772
Blue collar
441
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,772 80.1% 6.5%
Blue collar 441 19.9% -8.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
30.2%
Governmental workers
55.8%
Not for profit companies
4.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 203 9.2% -0.5%
Private companies 668 30.2% 1.2%
Governmental workers 1,234 55.8% 13.1%
Not for profit companies 108 4.9% -44.0%
Unemployment rate
5.1%
-42.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Waynesville stands at 5.1%, 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 Waynesville

How people get around in Waynesville

Commuting methods vary: 91.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 2,337 91.4% 5.8%
Walk 42 1.6% 100.0%
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 Waynesville by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
65583 14,711 5,326 $76,626 $92,508

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FAQs about Waynesville demographics 

What is the total population of Waynesville?

Waynesville has a total population of 5,442 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Waynesville?

The gender ratio in Waynesville is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (2,687 residents)
  • 50.6% females (2,755 residents)

What is the median age in Waynesville?

The median age in Waynesville is 32.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Waynesville?

The age distribution in Waynesville is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.6% (1,227 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.8% (536 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 33.9% (1,843 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 16.6% (902 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.2% (934 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Waynesville?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Waynesville is as follows:
  • White: 78.9% (4,296 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.8% (259 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (33 residents)
  • Asian: 2.9% (159 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.6% (688 residents)
  • Other: 0.1% (7 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.5% of the population in Waynesville.

How many housing units are there in Waynesville?

There are 2,420 housing units in Waynesville, reflecting a -11.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Waynesville has a total of 2,201 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Waynesville?

Waynesville has a median household income of $56,836, representing a -24.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.9% in Waynesville, with a workforce of 2,213 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.1% (1,772 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.9% (441 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (203 residents)
  • Private companies: 30.2% (668 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 55.8% (1,234 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.9% (108 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