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

Total population
42,765
-2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$42,165/yr
5.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
20,867
-0.1% year-over-year change

Washington County population

How many people live in Washington County

Washington County is home to 42,765 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.6% of Washington County locals are male, and 53.4% are female.

Total population
42,765
-2.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.6%
19,943
Female
53.4%
22,822
Value Percent YoY change
Male 19,943 46.6% -2.3%
Female 22,822 53.4% -1.9%
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 Washington County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.1% are children under 15, then 12.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.7% of the population, while another 24.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
38
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.1%
15 to 24
12.9%
25 to 44
23.7%
45 to 64
24.4%
Over 65
17.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,039 21.1% -1.8%
15 to 24 5,519 12.9% -1.3%
25 to 44 10,128 23.7% -1.7%
45 to 64 10,458 24.4% -4.1%
Over 65 7,621 17.8% -0.6%
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 Washington County, 99% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 23.9% of locals are Caucasian, 71.6% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
0.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 42,331 99% -2.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 334 0.8% 6.0%
Non-citizens 100 0.2% 17.6%
Racial breakdown
White
23.9%
Black or African American
71.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.4%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 10,216 23.9%
Black or African American 30,599 71.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 18 0%
Asian 338 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 1,013 2.4%
Other 580 1.4%

Households in Washington County

A peek inside Washington County households

Washington County has 17,113 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.2% are families, while the remaining 41.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
17,113
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,156
Family households
9,957
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,156 41.8% 1.7%
Family households 9,957 58.2% -2.3%
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 Washington County

The housing landscape of Washington County

Washington County's housing consists of 20,867 units, with 73.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.5% 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 6.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
20,867
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 15,298 73.3%
1 unit, attached 307 1.5%
2 units 995 4.8%
3 or 4 units 725 3.5%
5 to 9 units 629 3%
10 to 19 units 432 2.1%
20 to 49 units 756 3.6%
50 or more units 316 1.5%
Mobile home 1,396 6.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 13 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
90
38.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Washington County

In Washington County, the median construction year is 1973. About 4.8% 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, 7.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,001 4.8% -1.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 908 4.4% -24.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,912 14% -7.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,289 20.6% 9.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,740 22.7% 1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,736 13.1% -7.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,901 9.1% -15.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,654 7.9% 43.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 636 3% 21.1%
Built in 2020 or later 90 0.4% 38.5%
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.

Washington County occupancy rates

Out of the 17,113 occupied housing units in Washington County, 60.2% are owner-occupied, while 39.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
17,113
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,812
Owner occupied
10,301
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,812 39.8% -8.6%
Owner occupied 10,301 60.2% 5.4%
Unoccupied housing units
18.0%
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.

Washington County housing costs

Housing costs in Washington County come to a median of $753 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $833.

Median housing costs per month
$753/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 Washington County
$833/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 Washington County

Washington County education at a glance

About 44.9% of the population in Washington County went to high school, while 19.2% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 12.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,992 6.3% -16.1%
High school diploma 14,275 44.9% -6.3%
College diploma 6,116 19.2% 5.1%
Associate degree 2,887 9.1% -2.3%
Bachelor's degree 3,877 12.2% -2.0%
Graduate degree 2,657 8.4% 20.8%
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 Washington County

How much people earn in Washington County

The average annual household income in Washington County was $60,222 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $42,165, reflecting a +5.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Washington County
$60,222/year
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Washington County
$42,165/year
5.1% year-over-year change

Washington County income by age

In Washington County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $46,804. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $50,625 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $35,236, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $32,550 in earnings. Overall, 73.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $35,236 12.8%
25 - 44 $46,804 5.3%
45 - 64 $50,625 11.6%
Over 65 $32,550 3.9%
Above poverty level
30,445
Below poverty level
10,919
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,445 73.6% 1.1%
Below poverty level 10,919 26.4% -10.9%

Employment in Washington County

Workforce and job types in Washington County

The job market in Washington County is powered by 16,324 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 64.3% are employed by private companies, and 23.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,324
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
11,462
Blue collar
4,862
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,462 70.2% 1.2%
Blue collar 4,862 29.8% -0.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
64.3%
Governmental workers
23.2%
Not for profit companies
4.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,244 7.6% -4.9%
Private companies 10,500 64.3% -0.4%
Governmental workers 3,790 23.2% 7.3%
Not for profit companies 790 4.8% -3.4%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
-31.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Washington County stands at 6.3%, 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 Washington County

How people get around in Washington County

Commuting methods vary: 92.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 15,058 92.8% -0.1%
Taxicab 1 0% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 161 1% 24.8%
Subway or elevated 20 0.1% N/A
Walk 281 1.7% -4.4%
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 Washington County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
38701 20,853 8,529 $40,854 $61,396
38703 11,028 4,280 $44,291 $54,146
38722 248 112 $21,818 $32,421
38723 250 43 $0 $0
38731 39 10 $0 $0
38744 512 240 $22,547 $61,514
38748 3,192 1,160 $44,615 $52,691
38756 5,887 2,547 $45,625 $70,194
38760 934 289 $37,679 $60,724

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FAQs about Washington County demographics 

What is the total population of Washington County?

Washington County has a total population of 42,765 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 -2.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Washington County?

The gender ratio in Washington County is as follows:
  • 46.6% males (19,943 residents)
  • 53.4% females (22,822 residents)

What is the median age in Washington County?

The median age in Washington County is 38.

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

The age distribution in Washington County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.1% (9,039 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.9% (5,519 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.7% (10,128 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.4% (10,458 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.8% (7,621 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Washington County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Washington County is as follows:
  • White: 23.9% (10,216 residents)
  • Black or African American: 71.6% (30,599 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (18 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (338 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.4% (1,013 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (580 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 99% of the population in Washington County.

How many housing units are there in Washington County?

There are 20,867 housing units in Washington County, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Washington County has a total of 17,113 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Washington County?

Washington County has a median household income of $42,165, representing a +5.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.7% in Washington County, with a workforce of 16,324 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.2% (11,462 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.8% (4,862 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (1,244 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.3% (10,500 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.2% (3,790 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.8% (790 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