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

Total population
14,132
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,916/yr
18.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,714
0.5% year-over-year change

Smith County population

How many people live in Smith County

Smith County is home to 14,132 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.6% of Smith County locals are male, and 52.4% are female.

Total population
14,132
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.6%
6,732
Female
52.4%
7,400
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,732 47.6% -0.3%
Female 7,400 52.4% -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 Smith County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.4% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
22.4%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
20.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,660 18.8% -0.6%
15 to 24 1,679 11.9% -4.7%
25 to 44 3,166 22.4% 1.4%
45 to 64 3,671 26% -0.5%
Over 65 2,956 20.9% 0.4%
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 Smith County, 98.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.3% of locals are Caucasian, 23% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 1.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.4%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 13,944 98.7% -1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 57 0.4% 26.7%
Non-citizens 131 0.9% 244.7%
Racial breakdown
White
74.3%
Black or African American
23%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
1.7%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 10,504 74.3%
Black or African American 3,257 23%
Asian 43 0.3%
Two or more races 239 1.7%
Other 89 0.6%

Households in Smith County

A peek inside Smith County households

Smith County has 5,592 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.5% are families, while the remaining 32.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,592
3.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,816
Family households
3,776
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,816 32.5% 1.4%
Family households 3,776 67.5% 4.7%
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 Smith County

The housing landscape of Smith County

Smith County's housing consists of 6,714 units, with 70.9% 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 24.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,714
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,762 70.9%
1 unit, attached 40 0.6%
2 units 21 0.3%
3 or 4 units 54 0.8%
5 to 9 units 53 0.8%
10 to 19 units 49 0.7%
20 to 49 units 30 0.4%
Mobile home 1,673 24.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 32 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
139
-0.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Smith County

In Smith County, the median construction year is 1986. About 3.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 216 3.2% -27.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 292 4.4% 14.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 547 8.2% -7.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 332 4.9% -8.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,463 21.8% -4.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 797 11.9% -9.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 985 14.7% 4.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,179 17.6% 4.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 764 11.4% 42.5%
Built in 2020 or later 139 2.1% -0.7%
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.

Smith County occupancy rates

Out of the 5,592 occupied housing units in Smith County, 87.4% are owner-occupied, while 12.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,592
3.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
703
Owner occupied
4,889
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 703 12.6% -4.6%
Owner occupied 4,889 87.4% 4.9%
Unoccupied housing units
16.7%
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.

Smith County housing costs

Housing costs in Smith County come to a median of $543 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $664.

Median housing costs per month
$543/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 Smith County
$664/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 Smith County

Smith County education at a glance

About 50.6% of the population in Smith County went to high school, while 20% pursued college studies. Another 9.4% earned an associate degree and 9.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 547 5% -22.4%
High school diploma 5,512 50.6% -0.6%
College diploma 2,176 20% -4.8%
Associate degree 1,025 9.4% 0.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,043 9.6% 23.3%
Graduate degree 597 5.5% 13.1%
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 Smith County

How much people earn in Smith County

The average annual household income in Smith County was $72,047 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +12.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,916, reflecting a +18.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Smith County
$72,047/year
12.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Smith County
$60,916/year
18.5% year-over-year change

Smith County income by age

In Smith County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,219. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $73,517 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $38,992, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $34,224 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 $38,992 8.4%
25 - 44 $62,219 2.5%
45 - 64 $73,517 15.8%
Over 65 $34,224 4.5%
Above poverty level
11,516
Below poverty level
2,317
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,516 83.2% 2.3%
Below poverty level 2,317 16.8% -11.6%

Employment in Smith County

Workforce and job types in Smith County

The job market in Smith County is powered by 5,456 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 65.3% are employed by private companies, and 19.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,456
7.2% year-over-year change
White collar
3,422
Blue collar
2,034
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,422 62.7% 7.6%
Blue collar 2,034 37.3% 6.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
65.3%
Governmental workers
19.3%
Not for profit companies
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 461 8.4% 1.5%
Private companies 3,565 65.3% 14.4%
Governmental workers 1,053 19.3% -5.8%
Not for profit companies 377 6.9% -6.0%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
7.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Smith County stands at 4.4%, 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 Smith County

How people get around in Smith County

In Smith County, the average commute time is 31 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 94.4% 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
31 min
4.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,078 94.4% 7.3%
Walk 25 0.5% -21.9%
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 Smith County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
39074 14,283 5,045 $46,030 $63,455
39111 9,143 3,364 $49,140 $68,621
39116 2,594 799 $72,109 $65,200
39117 10,431 3,422 $58,438 $74,911
39119 5,739 2,057 $49,766 $67,189
39152 583 217 $42,096 $49,559
39153 2,968 1,186 $60,833 $62,781
39168 6,270 2,645 $45,298 $62,200
39338 3,566 1,438 $50,085 $68,599
39422 4,427 1,977 $51,670 $63,817

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FAQs about Smith County demographics 

What is the total population of Smith County?

Smith County has a total population of 14,132 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 Smith County?

The gender ratio in Smith County is as follows:
  • 47.6% males (6,732 residents)
  • 52.4% females (7,400 residents)

What is the median age in Smith County?

The median age in Smith County is 43.5.

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

The age distribution in Smith County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (2,660 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (1,679 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.4% (3,166 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (3,671 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.9% (2,956 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Smith County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Smith County is as follows:
  • White: 74.3% (10,504 residents)
  • Black or African American: 23% (3,257 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (43 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 1.7% (239 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (89 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.7% of the population in Smith County.

How many housing units are there in Smith County?

There are 6,714 housing units in Smith County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Smith County has a total of 5,592 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Smith County?

Smith County has a median household income of $60,916, representing a +18.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Smith County, with a workforce of 5,456 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62.7% (3,422 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37.3% (2,034 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (461 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.3% (3,565 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.3% (1,053 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.9% (377 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