Panola County, MS demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
32,808
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$45,945/yr
4.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,717
0.2% year-over-year change

Panola County population

How many people live in Panola County

Panola County is home to 32,808 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.7% of Panola County locals are male, and 52.3% are female.

Total population
32,808
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.7%
15,655
Female
52.3%
17,153
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,655 47.7% -0.7%
Female 17,153 52.3% -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 Panola County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.3% are children under 15, then 13.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.3%
15 to 24
13.1%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
17.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,659 20.3% -1.1%
15 to 24 4,300 13.1% 0.5%
25 to 44 7,936 24.2% -0.2%
45 to 64 8,187 25% -2.2%
Over 65 5,726 17.4% 1.6%
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 Panola County, 98.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 46.6% of locals are Caucasian, 48.3% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 32,351 98.6% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 339 1% 20.2%
Non-citizens 118 0.4% 31.1%
Racial breakdown
White
46.6%
Black or African American
48.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
4.1%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 15,293 46.6%
Black or African American 15,844 48.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 11 0%
Asian 164 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 104 0.3%
Two or more races 1,332 4.1%
Other 60 0.2%

Households in Panola County

A peek inside Panola County households

Panola County has 12,312 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.9% are families, while the remaining 35.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,312
-0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,319
Family households
7,993
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,319 35.1% -0.3%
Family households 7,993 64.9% -0.7%
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 Panola County

The housing landscape of Panola County

Panola County's housing consists of 14,717 units, with 66.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.4% 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 25.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,717
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,788 66.5%
1 unit, attached 55 0.4%
2 units 210 1.4%
3 or 4 units 614 4.2%
5 to 9 units 128 0.9%
10 to 19 units 38 0.3%
20 to 49 units 52 0.4%
50 or more units 15 0.1%
Mobile home 3,802 25.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 15 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
167
75.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Panola County

In Panola County, the median construction year is 1988. About 5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 736 5% 2.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 771 5.2% -0.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 942 6.4% -7.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,653 11.2% -11.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,844 12.5% -1.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,743 11.8% -10.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,624 24.6% 1.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,090 14.2% 10.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,147 7.8% 21.1%
Built in 2020 or later 167 1.1% 75.8%
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.

Panola County occupancy rates

Out of the 12,312 occupied housing units in Panola County, 71.1% are owner-occupied, while 28.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,312
-0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,558
Owner occupied
8,754
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,558 28.9% -7.8%
Owner occupied 8,754 71.1% 2.7%
Unoccupied housing units
16.3%
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.

Panola County housing costs

Housing costs in Panola County come to a median of $719 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $874.

Median housing costs per month
$719/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 Panola County
$874/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 Panola County

Panola County education at a glance

About 48.2% of the population in Panola County went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 10.3% earned an associate degree and 10% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,210 4.9% 6.2%
High school diploma 11,922 48.2% 6.2%
College diploma 5,003 20.2% -15.9%
Associate degree 2,552 10.3% -13.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,458 10% 4.1%
Graduate degree 1,569 6.4% 32.4%
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 Panola County

How much people earn in Panola County

The average annual household income in Panola County was $67,388 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $45,945, reflecting a +4.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Panola County
$67,388/year
7.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Panola County
$45,945/year
4.4% year-over-year change

Panola County income by age

In Panola County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $50,962. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,568 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,556, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,224 in earnings. Overall, 76.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,556 0.8%
25 - 44 $50,962 8.9%
45 - 64 $51,568 -2.0%
Over 65 $38,224 1.1%
Above poverty level
24,356
Below poverty level
7,567
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 24,356 76.3% -0.4%
Below poverty level 7,567 23.7% -3.5%

Employment in Panola County

Workforce and job types in Panola County

The job market in Panola County is powered by 12,504 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 66.4% are employed by private companies, and 19.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,504
3.7% year-over-year change
White collar
8,496
Blue collar
4,008
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,496 68% 3.1%
Blue collar 4,008 32% 5.1%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
66.4%
Governmental workers
19.4%
Not for profit companies
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,050 8.4% 19.1%
Private companies 8,301 66.4% 2.8%
Governmental workers 2,426 19.4% -0.1%
Not for profit companies 727 5.8% 8.7%
Unemployment rate
6.6%
-23.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Panola County stands at 6.6%, 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 Panola County

How people get around in Panola County

In Panola County, the average commute time is 29 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 94% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
29 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 11,493 94% 3.4%
Bus or trolleybus 51 0.4% 155.0%
Walk 60 0.5% -18.9%
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 Panola County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
38619 5,366 1,817 $35,379 $57,758
38620 3,386 1,211 $45,539 $69,684
38621 1,578 651 $36,685 $48,907
38622 594 234 $30,400 $33,839
38658 2,124 853 $78,125 $80,409
38665 3,514 1,301 $80,223 $87,348
38666 5,861 2,469 $36,892 $53,934
38606 16,156 5,772 $54,539 $76,406
38927 1,276 434 $48,611 $48,636

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FAQs about Panola County demographics 

What is the total population of Panola County?

Panola County has a total population of 32,808 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Panola County?

The gender ratio in Panola County is as follows:
  • 47.7% males (15,655 residents)
  • 52.3% females (17,153 residents)

What is the median age in Panola County?

The median age in Panola County is 39.4.

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

The age distribution in Panola County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.3% (6,659 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.1% (4,300 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (7,936 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (8,187 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.4% (5,726 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Panola County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Panola County is as follows:
  • White: 46.6% (15,293 residents)
  • Black or African American: 48.3% (15,844 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (11 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (164 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (104 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.1% (1,332 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (60 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.6% of the population in Panola County.

How many housing units are there in Panola County?

There are 14,717 housing units in Panola 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 Panola County and what is the average household size?

Panola County has a total of 12,312 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Panola County?

Panola County has a median household income of $45,945, representing a +4.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.4% in Panola County, with a workforce of 12,504 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68% (8,496 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32% (4,008 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (1,050 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.4% (8,301 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.4% (2,426 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.8% (727 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