Darke County, OH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
51,594
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$64,486/yr
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
22,651
0.0% year-over-year change

Darke County population

How many people live in Darke County

Darke County is home to 51,594 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Darke County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
51,594
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
25,739
Female
50.1%
25,855
Value Percent YoY change
Male 25,739 49.9% -0.3%
Female 25,855 50.1% 0.1%
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 Darke County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.2% are children under 15, then 12% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.6% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.2%
15 to 24
12%
25 to 44
22.6%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
20.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,916 19.2% -0.3%
15 to 24 6,218 12% -1.0%
25 to 44 11,641 22.6% 1.1%
45 to 64 13,255 25.7% -1.6%
Over 65 10,564 20.5% 1.3%
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 Darke County, 98.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.6%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 50,970 98.8% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 295 0.6% 2.4%
Non-citizens 329 0.6% 17.9%
Racial breakdown
White
95.2%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 49,090 95.2%
Black or African American 293 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3 0%
Asian 297 0.6%
Two or more races 1,568 3%
Other 343 0.7%

Households in Darke County

A peek inside Darke County households

Darke County has 21,297 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.2% are families, while the remaining 34.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
21,297
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,400
Family households
13,897
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,400 34.8% 3.3%
Family households 13,897 65.2% -1.9%
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 Darke County

The housing landscape of Darke County

Darke County's housing consists of 22,651 units, with 81.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.7% 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 4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
22,651
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 18,424 81.3%
1 unit, attached 379 1.7%
2 units 1,319 5.8%
3 or 4 units 595 2.6%
5 to 9 units 428 1.9%
10 to 19 units 234 1%
20 to 49 units 149 0.7%
50 or more units 205 0.9%
Mobile home 916 4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2 0%
Homes built since 2020
114
52.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Darke County

In Darke County, the median construction year is 1963. About 31% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 7,023 31% 0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,351 6% -1.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,251 9.9% -3.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,589 11.4% 13.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,580 15.8% -6.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,690 7.5% 6.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,131 9.4% -7.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,538 6.8% 1.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 384 1.7% 15.0%
Built in 2020 or later 114 0.5% 52.0%
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.

Darke County occupancy rates

Out of the 21,297 occupied housing units in Darke County, 72.4% are owner-occupied, while 27.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
21,297
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,884
Owner occupied
15,413
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,884 27.6% -1.5%
Owner occupied 15,413 72.4% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
6.0%
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.

Darke County housing costs

Housing costs in Darke County come to a median of $807 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $779.

Median housing costs per month
$807/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 Darke County
$779/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 Darke County

Darke County education at a glance

About 53.8% of the population in Darke County went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 8.1% earned an associate degree and 10.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 910 2.3% 19.4%
High school diploma 21,205 53.8% 0.5%
College diploma 7,949 20.2% -2.6%
Associate degree 3,194 8.1% -0.0%
Bachelor's degree 4,210 10.7% -0.4%
Graduate degree 1,926 4.9% -1.0%
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 Darke County

How much people earn in Darke County

The average annual household income in Darke County was $83,884 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 $64,486, reflecting a -0.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Darke County
$83,884/year
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Darke County
$64,486/year
-0.3% year-over-year change

Darke County income by age

In Darke County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,880. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,066 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $48,792, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,333 in earnings. Overall, 89% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $48,792 4.7%
25 - 44 $81,880 4.7%
45 - 64 $76,066 -3.4%
Over 65 $44,333 0.1%
Above poverty level
44,789
Below poverty level
5,507
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 44,789 89% 0.0%
Below poverty level 5,507 11% -1.8%

Employment in Darke County

Workforce and job types in Darke County

The job market in Darke County is powered by 23,907 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 38% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 73.3% are employed by private companies, and 10.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
23,907
-0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
14,830
Blue collar
9,077
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 14,830 62% 0.2%
Blue collar 9,077 38% -2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
73.3%
Governmental workers
10.3%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,205 9.2% -6.8%
Private companies 17,523 73.3% 0.6%
Governmental workers 2,455 10.3% -5.7%
Not for profit companies 1,724 7.2% 3.1%
Unemployment rate
2.8%
3.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Darke County stands at 2.8%, 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 Darke County

How people get around in Darke County

In Darke County, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
23 min
2.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 21,566 91.2% -0.6%
Bus or trolleybus 37 0.2% -9.8%
Motorcycle 12 0% -20.0%
Bicycle 15 0.1% 25.0%
Walk 455 1.9% -2.6%
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 Darke County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
45303 2,188 818 $65,556 $70,566
45304 7,599 2,890 $78,125 $88,714
45308 4,385 1,666 $70,435 $87,262
45310 227 93 $77,917 $98,100
45328 544 180 $63,125 $64,483
45331 22,356 9,912 $53,801 $72,880
45332 716 285 $77,250 $121,817
45337 1,703 593 $108,162 $129,345
45346 1,663 708 $77,083 $74,365
45347 4,095 1,787 $63,025 $77,053

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FAQs about Darke County demographics 

What is the total population of Darke County?

Darke County has a total population of 51,594 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Darke County?

The gender ratio in Darke County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (25,739 residents)
  • 50.1% females (25,855 residents)

What is the median age in Darke County?

The median age in Darke County is 41.8.

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

The age distribution in Darke County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.2% (9,916 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12% (6,218 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.6% (11,641 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (13,255 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.5% (10,564 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Darke County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Darke County is as follows:
  • White: 95.2% (49,090 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (293 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (3 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (297 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3% (1,568 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (343 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.8% of the population in Darke County.

How many housing units are there in Darke County?

There are 22,651 housing units in Darke County, reflecting a +0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Darke County has a total of 21,297 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Darke County?

Darke County has a median household income of $64,486, representing a -0.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.2% in Darke County, with a workforce of 23,907 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62% (14,830 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 38% (9,077 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (2,205 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.3% (17,523 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.3% (2,455 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (1,724 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