Bluffton, OH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,859
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$75,694/yr
-2.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,559
2.6% year-over-year change

Bluffton population

How many people live in Bluffton

Bluffton is home to 3,859 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45% of Bluffton locals are male, and 55% are female.

Total population
3,859
1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45%
1,737
Female
55%
2,122
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,737 45% 0.3%
Female 2,122 55% 2.7%
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 Bluffton is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.4% are children under 15, then 18.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19% of the population, while another 18.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23% are 65 or older.

Median age
36
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.4%
15 to 24
18.7%
25 to 44
19%
45 to 64
18.9%
Over 65
23%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 788 20.4% -2.1%
15 to 24 721 18.7% 7.0%
25 to 44 732 19% -3.0%
45 to 64 731 18.9% -2.3%
Over 65 887 23% 8.6%
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 Bluffton, 92.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.3% of locals are Caucasian, 3% are African American and 2.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.4%
Non-citizens
2.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,584 92.9% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 171 4.4% 15.5%
Non-citizens 104 2.7% 50.7%
Racial breakdown
White
86.3%
Black or African American
3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
2.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.4%
Other
3.2%
Value Percent
White 3,332 86.3%
Black or African American 116 3%
Asian 80 2.1%
Two or more races 208 5.4%
Other 123 3.2%

Households in Bluffton

A peek inside Bluffton households

Bluffton has 1,450 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60% are families, while the remaining 40% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,450
3.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
580
Family households
870
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 580 40% 13.1%
Family households 870 60% -2.0%
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 Bluffton

The housing landscape of Bluffton

Bluffton's housing consists of 1,559 units, with 69.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.9% 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 1.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,559
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,078 69.2%
1 unit, attached 45 2.9%
2 units 151 9.7%
3 or 4 units 93 6%
5 to 9 units 49 3.1%
10 to 19 units 40 2.6%
20 to 49 units 77 4.9%
Mobile home 26 1.7%
Homes built since 2020
3
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Bluffton

In Bluffton, the median construction year is 1971. About 22.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 355 22.8% -7.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 127 8.2% -3.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 163 10.5% -4.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 100 6.4% 44.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 299 19.2% 34.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 119 7.6% 11.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 160 10.3% -20.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 114 7.3% -20.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 119 7.6% 29.4%
Built in 2020 or later 3 0.2% N/A
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.

Bluffton occupancy rates

Out of the 1,450 occupied housing units in Bluffton, 67.1% are owner-occupied, while 32.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,450
3.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
477
Owner occupied
973
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 477 32.9% 22.9%
Owner occupied 973 67.1% -4.0%
Unoccupied housing units
7.0%
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.

Bluffton housing costs

Housing costs in Bluffton come to a median of $849 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $823.

Median housing costs per month
$849/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 Bluffton
$823/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 Bluffton

Bluffton education at a glance

About 29.5% of the population in Bluffton went to high school, while 20.8% pursued college studies. Another 10.5% earned an associate degree and 21.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 17 0.6% 240.0%
High school diploma 874 29.5% -0.5%
College diploma 616 20.8% 11.4%
Associate degree 310 10.5% -17.6%
Bachelor's degree 634 21.4% 1.6%
Graduate degree 514 17.3% 14.7%
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 Bluffton

How much people earn in Bluffton

The average annual household income in Bluffton was $92,064 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $75,694, reflecting a -2.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Bluffton
$92,064/year
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Bluffton
$75,694/year
-2.2% year-over-year change

Bluffton income by age

In Bluffton, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $117,802. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,150 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $138,712, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,516 in earnings. Overall, 96.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $138,712 2.3%
25 - 44 $117,802 26.8%
45 - 64 $87,150 -4.8%
Over 65 $46,516 -6.1%
Above poverty level
3,276
Below poverty level
110
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,276 96.8% -2.0%
Below poverty level 110 3.2% 96.4%

Average renter income in Bluffton

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Bluffton, their median household income was $35,208 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 28.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$35,208
Rent-to-income ratio
28.1%
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 Bluffton

Workforce and job types in Bluffton

The job market in Bluffton is powered by 1,640 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.2% run their own businesses, 53.1% are employed by private companies, and 14.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,640
-2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
1,340
Blue collar
300
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,340 81.7% 0.2%
Blue collar 300 18.3% -13.5%
Employer type
Self employees
5.2%
Private companies
53.1%
Governmental workers
14.4%
Not for profit companies
27.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 85 5.2% 7.6%
Private companies 871 53.1% -6.9%
Governmental workers 237 14.4% -10.9%
Not for profit companies 447 27.3% 10.9%
Unemployment rate
9.3%
49.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Bluffton stands at 9.3%, 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 Bluffton

How people get around in Bluffton

In Bluffton, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 78% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 10.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
3.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,242 78% -3.9%
Walk 173 10.9% 6.8%
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 Bluffton by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
45817 5,926 2,394 $76,848 $92,956

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FAQs about Bluffton demographics 

What is the total population of Bluffton?

Bluffton has a total population of 3,859 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 +1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Bluffton?

The gender ratio in Bluffton is as follows:
  • 45% males (1,737 residents)
  • 55% females (2,122 residents)

What is the median age in Bluffton?

The median age in Bluffton is 36.

What is the age distribution of the population in Bluffton?

The age distribution in Bluffton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.4% (788 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.7% (721 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19% (732 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.9% (731 residents)
  • Over 65: 23% (887 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Bluffton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Bluffton is as follows:
  • White: 86.3% (3,332 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3% (116 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 2.1% (80 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.4% (208 residents)
  • Other: 3.2% (123 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.9% of the population in Bluffton.

How many housing units are there in Bluffton?

There are 1,559 housing units in Bluffton, reflecting a +2.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Bluffton has a total of 1,450 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Bluffton?

Bluffton has a median household income of $75,694, representing a -2.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 90.7% in Bluffton, with a workforce of 1,640 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.7% (1,340 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.3% (300 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.2% (85 residents)
  • Private companies: 53.1% (871 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.4% (237 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 27.3% (447 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