Clarksdale, MS demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
14,231
-1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$36,382/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,082
-0.3% year-over-year change

Clarksdale population

How many people live in Clarksdale

Clarksdale is home to 14,231 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.7% of Clarksdale locals are male, and 53.3% are female.

Total population
14,231
-1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.7%
6,644
Female
53.3%
7,587
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,644 46.7% -3.3%
Female 7,587 53.3% 0.5%
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 Clarksdale is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.7% are children under 15, then 14.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 21.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.7%
15 to 24
14.3%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
21.9%
Over 65
16.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,228 22.7% -3.7%
15 to 24 2,040 14.3% 0.9%
25 to 44 3,520 24.7% 1.9%
45 to 64 3,111 21.9% -1.6%
Over 65 2,332 16.4% -4.1%
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 Clarksdale, 97.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 13.4% of locals are Caucasian, 80.9% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.1%
Non-citizens
2.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 13,910 97.7% -1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 20 0.1% 5.3%
Non-citizens 301 2.1% 35.0%
Racial breakdown
White
13.4%
Black or African American
80.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 1,911 13.4%
Black or African American 11,507 80.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 49 0.3%
Asian 53 0.4%
Two or more races 573 4%
Other 138 1%

Households in Clarksdale

A peek inside Clarksdale households

Clarksdale has 5,873 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59% are families, while the remaining 41% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,873
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,409
Family households
3,464
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,409 41% 0.6%
Family households 3,464 59% -1.6%
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 Clarksdale

The housing landscape of Clarksdale

Clarksdale's housing consists of 7,082 units, with 71.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 3.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,082
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,093 71.9%
1 unit, attached 39 0.6%
2 units 440 6.2%
3 or 4 units 586 8.3%
5 to 9 units 440 6.2%
10 to 19 units 69 1%
20 to 49 units 128 1.8%
50 or more units 67 1%
Mobile home 220 3.1%
Homes built since 2020
32
-5.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Clarksdale

In Clarksdale, the median construction year is 1964. About 9.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 15.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 666 9.4% 3.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,071 15.1% 15.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,418 20% -10.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,032 14.6% 4.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,205 17% -4.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 360 5.1% -24.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 489 6.9% -20.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 540 7.6% 24.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 269 3.8% 99.3%
Built in 2020 or later 32 0.4% -5.9%
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.

Clarksdale occupancy rates

Out of the 5,873 occupied housing units in Clarksdale, 45.9% are owner-occupied, while 54.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,873
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,178
Owner occupied
2,695
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,178 54.1% 0.4%
Owner occupied 2,695 45.9% -2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
17.1%
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.

Clarksdale housing costs

Housing costs in Clarksdale come to a median of $738 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $774.

Median housing costs per month
$738/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 Clarksdale
$774/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 Clarksdale

Clarksdale education at a glance

About 38.1% of the population in Clarksdale went to high school, while 25% pursued college studies. Another 12.8% earned an associate degree and 9.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 736 7.1% -5.4%
High school diploma 3,942 38.1% -1.0%
College diploma 2,587 25% -7.2%
Associate degree 1,321 12.8% 10.9%
Bachelor's degree 1,028 9.9% 2.4%
Graduate degree 734 7.1% 2.2%
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 Clarksdale

How much people earn in Clarksdale

The average annual household income in Clarksdale was $48,292 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $36,382, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Clarksdale
$48,292/year
-2.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Clarksdale
$36,382/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Clarksdale income by age

In Clarksdale, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $39,649. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $32,047 overall. Overall, 60.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $39,649 26.7%
45 - 64 $32,047 0.4%
Over 65 $35,350 -3.9%
Above poverty level
8,286
Below poverty level
5,510
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,286 60.1% -1.1%
Below poverty level 5,510 39.9% -0.3%

Average renter income in Clarksdale

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Clarksdale, their median household income was $20,376 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 45.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$20,376
Rent-to-income ratio
45.6%
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 Clarksdale

Workforce and job types in Clarksdale

The job market in Clarksdale is powered by 5,138 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 62.3% are employed by private companies, and 25% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,138
1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
3,815
Blue collar
1,323
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,815 74.2% -2.1%
Blue collar 1,323 25.8% 15.8%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
62.3%
Governmental workers
25%
Not for profit companies
5.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 379 7.4% -11.0%
Private companies 3,203 62.3% 0.1%
Governmental workers 1,285 25% 9.9%
Not for profit companies 271 5.3% 10.2%
Unemployment rate
10.8%
8.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Clarksdale stands at 10.8%, 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 Clarksdale

How people get around in Clarksdale

Commuting methods vary: 90% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 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 4,570 90% 5.0%
Taxicab 7 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 10 0.2% -37.5%
Walk 52 1% -10.3%
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 Clarksdale by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
38614 16,170 6,438 $37,383 $50,932

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FAQs about Clarksdale demographics 

What is the total population of Clarksdale?

Clarksdale has a total population of 14,231 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 -1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Clarksdale?

The gender ratio in Clarksdale is as follows:
  • 46.7% males (6,644 residents)
  • 53.3% females (7,587 residents)

What is the median age in Clarksdale?

The median age in Clarksdale is 34.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Clarksdale?

The age distribution in Clarksdale is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.7% (3,228 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.3% (2,040 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (3,520 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.9% (3,111 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.4% (2,332 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Clarksdale?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Clarksdale is as follows:
  • White: 13.4% (1,911 residents)
  • Black or African American: 80.9% (11,507 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (49 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (53 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4% (573 residents)
  • Other: 1% (138 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.7% of the population in Clarksdale.

How many housing units are there in Clarksdale?

There are 7,082 housing units in Clarksdale, reflecting a -0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Clarksdale has a total of 5,873 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Clarksdale?

Clarksdale has a median household income of $36,382, representing a +3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 89.2% in Clarksdale, with a workforce of 5,138 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.2% (3,815 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.8% (1,323 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (379 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.3% (3,203 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 25% (1,285 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.3% (271 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