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

Total population
25,184
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$49,724/yr
-3.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,050
0.2% year-over-year change

Prentiss County population

How many people live in Prentiss County

Prentiss County is home to 25,184 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Prentiss County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
25,184
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
12,498
Female
50.4%
12,686
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,498 49.6% 1.0%
Female 12,686 50.4% 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 Prentiss County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 15.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 24.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
15.1%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
24.6%
Over 65
17.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,636 18.4% -0.2%
15 to 24 3,803 15.1% 2.0%
25 to 44 6,158 24.4% 0.6%
45 to 64 6,191 24.6% 0.6%
Over 65 4,396 17.5% 1.0%
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 Prentiss County, 97.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.5% of locals are Caucasian, 12.8% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.3%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 24,498 97.3% 1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 574 2.3% -14.7%
Non-citizens 112 0.4% -56.4%
Racial breakdown
White
79.5%
Black or African American
12.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.2%
Other
1.7%
Value Percent
White 20,023 79.5%
Black or African American 3,228 12.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 61 0.2%
Asian 134 0.5%
Two or more races 1,305 5.2%
Other 433 1.7%

Households in Prentiss County

A peek inside Prentiss County households

Prentiss County has 9,595 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.8% are families, while the remaining 31.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,595
2.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,996
Family households
6,599
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,996 31.2% 0.9%
Family households 6,599 68.8% 3.2%
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 Prentiss County

The housing landscape of Prentiss County

Prentiss County's housing consists of 11,050 units, with 74.6% 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 15.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,050
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,244 74.6%
1 unit, attached 140 1.3%
2 units 220 2%
3 or 4 units 330 3%
5 to 9 units 95 0.9%
10 to 19 units 38 0.3%
20 to 49 units 155 1.4%
50 or more units 71 0.6%
Mobile home 1,747 15.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 10 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
126
142.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Prentiss County

In Prentiss County, the median construction year is 1981. About 3.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.4% 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 411 3.7% -4.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 400 3.6% 0.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 810 7.3% -5.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,559 14.1% -10.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,169 19.6% 9.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,738 15.7% 5.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,827 16.5% 0.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,526 13.8% -8.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 484 4.4% 14.4%
Built in 2020 or later 126 1.1% 142.3%
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.

Prentiss County occupancy rates

Out of the 9,595 occupied housing units in Prentiss County, 77.5% are owner-occupied, while 22.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,595
2.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,158
Owner occupied
7,437
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,158 22.5% 9.3%
Owner occupied 7,437 77.5% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
13.2%
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.

Prentiss County housing costs

Housing costs in Prentiss County come to a median of $631 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $637.

Median housing costs per month
$631/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 Prentiss County
$637/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 Prentiss County

Prentiss County education at a glance

About 41.4% of the population in Prentiss County went to high school, while 23.7% pursued college studies. Another 13.3% earned an associate degree and 10% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 659 3.4% -4.5%
High school diploma 8,120 41.4% 3.7%
College diploma 4,651 23.7% -3.4%
Associate degree 2,610 13.3% -6.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,965 10% -7.6%
Graduate degree 1,588 8.1% 34.2%
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 Prentiss County

How much people earn in Prentiss County

The average annual household income in Prentiss County was $72,563 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $49,724, reflecting a -3.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Prentiss County
$72,563/year
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Prentiss County
$49,724/year
-3.4% year-over-year change

Prentiss County income by age

In Prentiss County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,309. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $64,054 overall. Overall, 83.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $70,309 4.1%
45 - 64 $64,054 2.8%
Over 65 $29,764 -3.7%
Above poverty level
19,915
Below poverty level
4,006
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 19,915 83.2% -2.3%
Below poverty level 4,006 16.8% 26.0%

Employment in Prentiss County

Workforce and job types in Prentiss County

The job market in Prentiss County is powered by 10,605 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.6% run their own businesses, 69% are employed by private companies, and 13.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,605
-1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
6,630
Blue collar
3,975
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,630 62.5% -1.1%
Blue collar 3,975 37.5% -2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
11.6%
Private companies
69%
Governmental workers
13.6%
Not for profit companies
5.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,234 11.6% -6.7%
Private companies 7,322 69% -2.4%
Governmental workers 1,446 13.6% 0.6%
Not for profit companies 603 5.7% 20.8%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
-4.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Prentiss County stands at 3.4%, 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 Prentiss County

How people get around in Prentiss County

In Prentiss County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 95.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.3% 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
-2.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,977 95.8% -1.5%
Walk 28 0.3% -17.6%
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 Prentiss County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
38824 8,244 3,250 $48,151 $64,109
38829 18,605 6,983 $51,859 $76,674
38856 1,221 532 $66,686 $99,233
38859 475 202 $41,389 $51,632
38865 4,860 1,797 $55,380 $61,902

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FAQs about Prentiss County demographics 

What is the total population of Prentiss County?

Prentiss County has a total population of 25,184 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Prentiss County?

The gender ratio in Prentiss County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (12,498 residents)
  • 50.4% females (12,686 residents)

What is the median age in Prentiss County?

The median age in Prentiss County is 38.1.

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

The age distribution in Prentiss County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (4,636 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.1% (3,803 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (6,158 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.6% (6,191 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.5% (4,396 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Prentiss County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Prentiss County is as follows:
  • White: 79.5% (20,023 residents)
  • Black or African American: 12.8% (3,228 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (61 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (134 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.2% (1,305 residents)
  • Other: 1.7% (433 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.3% of the population in Prentiss County.

How many housing units are there in Prentiss County?

There are 11,050 housing units in Prentiss 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 Prentiss County and what is the average household size?

Prentiss County has a total of 9,595 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Prentiss County?

Prentiss County has a median household income of $49,724, representing a -3.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.6% in Prentiss County, with a workforce of 10,605 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62.5% (6,630 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37.5% (3,975 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.6% (1,234 residents)
  • Private companies: 69% (7,322 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.6% (1,446 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.7% (603 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