Pearl, MS demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
27,737
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,695/yr
12.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,059
-2.5% year-over-year change

Pearl population

How many people live in Pearl

Pearl is home to 27,737 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Pearl locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
27,737
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
13,606
Female
51%
14,131
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,606 49% 2.3%
Female 14,131 51% -0.2%
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 Pearl is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.1% are children under 15, then 13.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 32% of the population, while another 23.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.1%
15 to 24
13.2%
25 to 44
32%
45 to 64
23.3%
Over 65
14.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,738 17.1% 5.5%
15 to 24 3,669 13.2% 8.2%
25 to 44 8,886 32% -0.4%
45 to 64 6,456 23.3% 3.9%
Over 65 3,988 14.4% -10.2%
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 Pearl, 94.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 58.2% of locals are Caucasian, 29.1% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.7%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 26,324 94.9% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 750 2.7% 1.1%
Non-citizens 663 2.4% 31.0%
Racial breakdown
White
58.2%
Black or African American
29.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.5%
Two or more races
5.6%
Other
4.1%
Value Percent
White 16,140 58.2%
Black or African American 8,072 29.1%
Asian 706 2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 137 0.5%
Two or more races 1,555 5.6%
Other 1,127 4.1%

Households in Pearl

A peek inside Pearl households

Pearl has 11,249 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.3% are families, while the remaining 36.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,249
-2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,127
Family households
7,122
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,127 36.7% -9.8%
Family households 7,122 63.3% 2.9%
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 Pearl

The housing landscape of Pearl

Pearl's housing consists of 12,059 units, with 69.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.3% 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 10.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,059
-2.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,367 69.4%
1 unit, attached 159 1.3%
2 units 44 0.4%
3 or 4 units 408 3.4%
5 to 9 units 774 6.4%
10 to 19 units 661 5.5%
20 to 49 units 81 0.7%
50 or more units 333 2.8%
Mobile home 1,219 10.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 13 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
206
2,475.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pearl

In Pearl, the median construction year is 1982. About 0.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 68 0.6% -13.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 30 0.2% -61.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,127 9.4% 15.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,309 19.2% -12.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,084 17.3% -5.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,831 15.2% 3.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,903 15.8% -9.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,650 13.7% -15.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 851 7.1% 50.1%
Built in 2020 or later 206 1.7% 2,475.0%
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.

Pearl occupancy rates

Out of the 11,249 occupied housing units in Pearl, 61.6% are owner-occupied, while 38.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,249
-2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,321
Owner occupied
6,928
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,321 38.4% -7.8%
Owner occupied 6,928 61.6% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
6.7%
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.

Pearl housing costs

Housing costs in Pearl come to a median of $1,085 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,175.

Median housing costs per month
$1,085/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 Pearl
$1,175/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 Pearl

Pearl education at a glance

About 32.9% of the population in Pearl went to high school, while 24.3% pursued college studies. Another 12.2% earned an associate degree and 16% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,042 4.8% 19.1%
High school diploma 7,199 32.9% -5.8%
College diploma 5,315 24.3% -6.2%
Associate degree 2,668 12.2% 6.9%
Bachelor's degree 3,504 16% 0.6%
Graduate degree 2,132 9.8% 10.2%
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 Pearl

How much people earn in Pearl

The average annual household income in Pearl was $85,233 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +9.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,695, reflecting a +12.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pearl
$85,233/year
9.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pearl
$61,695/year
12.9% year-over-year change

Pearl income by age

In Pearl, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,850. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,020 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,690, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,240 in earnings. Overall, 87.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,690 3.0%
25 - 44 $68,850 26.0%
45 - 64 $71,020 1.1%
Over 65 $52,240 11.0%
Above poverty level
24,093
Below poverty level
3,316
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 24,093 87.9% 1.4%
Below poverty level 3,316 12.1% -1.6%

Average renter income in Pearl

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Pearl, their median household income was $41,426 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$41,426
Rent-to-income ratio
34%
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 Pearl

Workforce and job types in Pearl

The job market in Pearl is powered by 15,155 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, 7.1% run their own businesses, 65.9% are employed by private companies, and 22.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,155
3.5% year-over-year change
White collar
11,253
Blue collar
3,902
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,253 74.2% 1.6%
Blue collar 3,902 25.8% 9.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7.1%
Private companies
65.9%
Governmental workers
22.4%
Not for profit companies
4.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,075 7.1% -2.2%
Private companies 9,983 65.9% 3.2%
Governmental workers 3,399 22.4% 4.8%
Not for profit companies 698 4.6% 11.0%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
-22.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Pearl stands at 4.3%, 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 Pearl

How people get around in Pearl

In Pearl, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
-3.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,594 90.8% 1.7%
Bicycle 36 0.2% 0.0%
Walk 227 1.5% 22.0%
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 Pearl by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
39208 34,442 12,839 $65,480 $84,969

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FAQs about Pearl demographics 

What is the total population of Pearl?

Pearl has a total population of 27,737 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Pearl?

The gender ratio in Pearl is as follows:
  • 49% males (13,606 residents)
  • 51% females (14,131 residents)

What is the median age in Pearl?

The median age in Pearl is 36.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Pearl?

The age distribution in Pearl is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.1% (4,738 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.2% (3,669 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 32% (8,886 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.3% (6,456 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.4% (3,988 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pearl?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pearl is as follows:
  • White: 58.2% (16,140 residents)
  • Black or African American: 29.1% (8,072 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (706 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.5% (137 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.6% (1,555 residents)
  • Other: 4.1% (1,127 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.9% of the population in Pearl.

How many housing units are there in Pearl?

There are 12,059 housing units in Pearl, reflecting a -2.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Pearl has a total of 11,249 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pearl?

Pearl has a median household income of $61,695, representing a +12.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.7% in Pearl, with a workforce of 15,155 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.2% (11,253 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.8% (3,902 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.1% (1,075 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.9% (9,983 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.4% (3,399 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.6% (698 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