Sterling, Brown County, OH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
364
54.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,250/yr
14.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
169
28.0% year-over-year change

Sterling population

How many people live in Sterling

Sterling is home to 364 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.2% of Sterling locals are male, and 44.8% are female.

Total population
364
54.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.2%
201
Female
44.8%
163
Value Percent YoY change
Male 201 55.2% 54.6%
Female 163 44.8% 53.8%
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 Sterling is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 26.1% are children under 15, then 5.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 33.8% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 8.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
26.1%
15 to 24
5.8%
25 to 44
33.8%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 95 26.1% 187.9%
15 to 24 21 5.8% 75.0%
25 to 44 123 33.8% 101.6%
45 to 64 93 25.6% -5.1%
Over 65 32 8.8% 0.0%
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

There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
100%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 364 100% 54.2%
Racial breakdown
White
94.2%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 343 94.2%
Two or more races 21 5.8%

Households in Sterling

A peek inside Sterling households

Sterling has 152 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.2% are families, while the remaining 42.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
152
32.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
65
Family households
87
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 65 42.8% 32.6%
Family households 87 57.2% 31.8%
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 Sterling

The housing landscape of Sterling

Sterling's housing consists of 169 units, with 81.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 4.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
169
28.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 137 81.1%
2 units 24 14.2%
Mobile home 8 4.7%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sterling

In Sterling, the median construction year is 1938. About 76.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 15.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 129 76.3% 67.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 26 15.4% 4.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4 2.4% -63.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2 1.2% 100.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 8 4.7% 0.0%
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.

Sterling occupancy rates

Out of the 152 occupied housing units in Sterling, 79% are owner-occupied, while 21% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
152
32.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
32
Owner occupied
120
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 32 21% 100.0%
Owner occupied 120 79% 21.2%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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.

Sterling housing costs

Housing costs in Sterling come to a median of $783 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $792.

Median housing costs per month
$783/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 Sterling
$792/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 Sterling

Sterling education at a glance

About 62.9% of the population in Sterling went to high school, while 15.3% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 12.9% hold a bachelor’s.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 5 2% -16.7%
High school diploma 156 62.9% 47.2%
College diploma 38 15.3% 22.6%
Associate degree 17 6.8% -10.5%
Bachelor's degree 32 12.9% -5.9%
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 Sterling

How much people earn in Sterling

The average annual household income in Sterling was $69,872 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +19.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,250, reflecting a +14.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sterling
$69,872/year
19.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sterling
$61,250/year
14.4% year-over-year change

Sterling income by age

In Sterling, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,750. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $49,500 overall. Overall, 98.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $81,750 39.7%
45 - 64 $49,500 -6.1%
Above poverty level
359
Below poverty level
5
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 359 98.6% 56.8%
Below poverty level 5 1.4% -28.6%

Employment in Sterling

Workforce and job types in Sterling

The job market in Sterling is powered by 184 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 42.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 57.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 4.4% run their own businesses, 78.8% are employed by private companies, and 10.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
184
35.3% year-over-year change
White collar
79
Blue collar
105
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 79 42.9% -9.2%
Blue collar 105 57.1% 114.3%
Employer type
Self employees
4.4%
Private companies
78.8%
Governmental workers
10.9%
Not for profit companies
6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 8 4.4% -50.0%
Private companies 145 78.8% 66.7%
Governmental workers 20 10.9% -13.0%
Not for profit companies 11 6% 10.0%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
20.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sterling stands at 3.2%, 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 Sterling

How people get around in Sterling

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 155 84.2% 31.4%
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 Sterling by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
45154 8,969 3,062 $74,087 $85,245
45176 10,072 4,040 $67,727 $95,437

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Sterling demographics 

What is the total population of Sterling?

Sterling has a total population of 364 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 +54.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sterling?

The gender ratio in Sterling is as follows:
  • 55.2% males (201 residents)
  • 44.8% females (163 residents)

What is the median age in Sterling?

The median age in Sterling is 33.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sterling?

The age distribution in Sterling is as follows:
  • Under 15: 26.1% (95 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 5.8% (21 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 33.8% (123 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (93 residents)
  • Over 65: 8.8% (32 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sterling?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sterling is as follows:
  • White: 94.2% (343 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (21 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 100% of the population in Sterling.

How many housing units are there in Sterling?

There are 169 housing units in Sterling, reflecting a +28.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sterling has a total of 152 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sterling?

Sterling has a median household income of $61,250, representing a +14.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.8% in Sterling, with a workforce of 184 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 42.9% (79 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 57.1% (105 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 4.4% (8 residents)
  • Private companies: 78.8% (145 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.9% (20 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6% (11 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