Starkville, MS demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
25,721
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$42,125/yr
6.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,407
-0.2% year-over-year change

Starkville population

How many people live in Starkville

Starkville is home to 25,721 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Starkville locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
25,721
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
12,718
Female
50.6%
13,003
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,718 49.4% -1.4%
Female 13,003 50.6% 2.2%
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 Starkville is 26, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.3% are children under 15, then 31.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.4% of the population, while another 15.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
26
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.3%
15 to 24
31.3%
25 to 44
26.4%
45 to 64
15.6%
Over 65
11.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,936 15.3% 5.0%
15 to 24 8,058 31.3% -0.4%
25 to 44 6,803 26.4% 0.9%
45 to 64 4,007 15.6% -1.6%
Over 65 2,917 11.3% -1.5%
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 Starkville, 92.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 53.7% of locals are Caucasian, 36.2% are African American and 4.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.7%
Non-citizens
4.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 23,764 92.4% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 698 2.7% 17.9%
Non-citizens 1,259 4.9% 2.9%
Racial breakdown
White
53.7%
Black or African American
36.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
4.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
4%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 13,814 53.7%
Black or African American 9,308 36.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 60 0.2%
Asian 1,188 4.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 18 0.1%
Two or more races 1,038 4%
Other 295 1.2%

Households in Starkville

A peek inside Starkville households

Starkville has 12,004 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 42.8% are families, while the remaining 57.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,004
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,863
Family households
5,141
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,863 57.2% -0.3%
Family households 5,141 42.8% 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 Starkville

The housing landscape of Starkville

Starkville's housing consists of 14,407 units, with 42.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.4% 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 3.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,407
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,154 42.7%
1 unit, attached 629 4.4%
2 units 1,203 8.4%
3 or 4 units 1,598 11.1%
5 to 9 units 1,532 10.6%
10 to 19 units 1,654 11.5%
20 to 49 units 566 3.9%
50 or more units 630 4.4%
Mobile home 441 3.1%
Homes built since 2020
254
81.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Starkville

In Starkville, the median construction year is 1990. About 4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 574 4% -13.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 213 1.5% -0.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 826 5.7% 5.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,224 8.5% -4.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,224 15.4% 8.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,151 14.9% -8.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,263 15.7% -16.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,406 16.7% 4.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,272 15.8% 18.3%
Built in 2020 or later 254 1.8% 81.4%
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.

Starkville occupancy rates

Out of the 12,004 occupied housing units in Starkville, 34% are owner-occupied, while 66% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,004
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,929
Owner occupied
4,075
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,929 66% 4.8%
Owner occupied 4,075 34% -3.6%
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.

Starkville housing costs

Housing costs in Starkville come to a median of $929 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $916.

Median housing costs per month
$929/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 Starkville
$916/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 Starkville

Starkville education at a glance

About 26.5% of the population in Starkville went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.9% earned an associate degree and 21% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 420 2% -11.2%
High school diploma 5,598 26.5% 6.1%
College diploma 4,766 22.6% -10.2%
Associate degree 2,089 9.9% 10.3%
Bachelor's degree 4,438 21% 3.7%
Graduate degree 3,788 18% -1.9%
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 Starkville

How much people earn in Starkville

The average annual household income in Starkville was $71,137 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $42,125, reflecting a +6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Starkville
$71,137/year
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Starkville
$42,125/year
6.0% year-over-year change

Starkville income by age

In Starkville, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $46,049. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $90,824 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $17,485, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $57,428 in earnings. Overall, 69.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $17,485 3.7%
25 - 44 $46,049 15.1%
45 - 64 $90,824 13.1%
Over 65 $57,428 -16.0%
Above poverty level
16,965
Below poverty level
7,533
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,965 69.2% 3.5%
Below poverty level 7,533 30.8% -5.0%

Average renter income in Starkville

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Starkville, their median household income was $21,008 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 52.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$21,008
Rent-to-income ratio
52.3%
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 Starkville

Workforce and job types in Starkville

The job market in Starkville is powered by 12,804 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7% run their own businesses, 56.2% are employed by private companies, and 32.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,804
3.6% year-over-year change
White collar
10,548
Blue collar
2,256
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,548 82.4% 1.8%
Blue collar 2,256 17.6% 13.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7%
Private companies
56.2%
Governmental workers
32.5%
Not for profit companies
4.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 894 7% -7.2%
Private companies 7,201 56.2% 5.0%
Governmental workers 4,163 32.5% 4.2%
Not for profit companies 546 4.3% -0.6%
Unemployment rate
6.1%
4.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Starkville stands at 6.1%, 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 Starkville

How people get around in Starkville

In Starkville, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
5.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,886 89% 4.3%
Bus or trolleybus 134 1.1% 61.5%
Bicycle 137 1.1% 19.1%
Walk 138 1.1% -11.0%
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 Starkville by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
39759 42,783 20,226 $46,398 $72,867

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FAQs about Starkville demographics 

What is the total population of Starkville?

Starkville has a total population of 25,721 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 Starkville?

The gender ratio in Starkville is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (12,718 residents)
  • 50.6% females (13,003 residents)

What is the median age in Starkville?

The median age in Starkville is 26.

What is the age distribution of the population in Starkville?

The age distribution in Starkville is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.3% (3,936 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 31.3% (8,058 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.4% (6,803 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 15.6% (4,007 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.3% (2,917 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Starkville?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Starkville is as follows:
  • White: 53.7% (13,814 residents)
  • Black or African American: 36.2% (9,308 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (60 residents)
  • Asian: 4.6% (1,188 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (18 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4% (1,038 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (295 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.4% of the population in Starkville.

How many housing units are there in Starkville?

There are 14,407 housing units in Starkville, 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 Starkville and what is the average household size?

Starkville has a total of 12,004 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Starkville?

Starkville has a median household income of $42,125, representing a +6.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.9% in Starkville, with a workforce of 12,804 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.4% (10,548 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.6% (2,256 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7% (894 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.2% (7,201 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 32.5% (4,163 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.3% (546 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