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

Total population
38,343
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$73,064/yr
-0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,565
-0.0% year-over-year change

Defiance County population

How many people live in Defiance County

Defiance County is home to 38,343 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.7% of Defiance County locals are male, and 49.3% are female.

Total population
38,343
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.7%
19,443
Female
49.3%
18,900
Value Percent YoY change
Male 19,443 50.7% 1.2%
Female 18,900 49.3% -0.8%
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 Defiance County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 12.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 24.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
12.7%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
24.2%
Over 65
20.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,070 18.4% 0.5%
15 to 24 4,872 12.7% -0.4%
25 to 44 9,372 24.4% 0.4%
45 to 64 9,288 24.2% -2.6%
Over 65 7,741 20.2% 3.8%
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 Defiance County, 98.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.7% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
0.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 37,791 98.6% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 359 0.9% -2.5%
Non-citizens 193 0.5% -42.9%
Racial breakdown
White
86.7%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
8.1%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 33,256 86.7%
Black or African American 633 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 50 0.1%
Asian 124 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 109 0.3%
Two or more races 3,103 8.1%
Other 1,068 2.8%

Households in Defiance County

A peek inside Defiance County households

Defiance County has 15,327 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.5% are families, while the remaining 32.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,327
-0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,984
Family households
10,343
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,984 32.5% -1.8%
Family households 10,343 67.5% 0.4%
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 Defiance County

The housing landscape of Defiance County

Defiance County's housing consists of 16,565 units, with 80.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.6% 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 4.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,565
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,354 80.6%
1 unit, attached 426 2.6%
2 units 744 4.5%
3 or 4 units 298 1.8%
5 to 9 units 367 2.2%
10 to 19 units 133 0.8%
20 to 49 units 292 1.8%
50 or more units 195 1.2%
Mobile home 756 4.6%
Homes built since 2020
93
232.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Defiance County

In Defiance County, the median construction year is 1968. About 25.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,289 25.9% -1.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 601 3.6% -8.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,832 11.1% -8.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,861 11.2% -1.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,759 16.7% -3.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,252 7.6% 0.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,787 10.8% 0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,449 8.8% 12.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 642 3.9% 31.6%
Built in 2020 or later 93 0.6% 232.1%
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.

Defiance County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,327 occupied housing units in Defiance County, 79.3% are owner-occupied, while 20.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,327
-0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,175
Owner occupied
12,152
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,175 20.7% -3.5%
Owner occupied 12,152 79.3% 0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
7.5%
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.

Defiance County housing costs

Housing costs in Defiance County come to a median of $864 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $846.

Median housing costs per month
$864/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 Defiance County
$846/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 Defiance County

Defiance County education at a glance

About 48.6% of the population in Defiance County went to high school, while 20.8% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 11.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 590 2% 8.3%
High school diploma 14,430 48.6% 4.6%
College diploma 6,193 20.8% -5.5%
Associate degree 3,271 11% 5.0%
Bachelor's degree 3,498 11.8% -4.8%
Graduate degree 1,735 5.8% -8.0%
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 Defiance County

How much people earn in Defiance County

The average annual household income in Defiance County was $88,073 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $73,064, reflecting a -0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Defiance County
$88,073/year
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Defiance County
$73,064/year
-0.8% year-over-year change

Defiance County income by age

In Defiance County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $85,916. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $90,551 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,903, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,510 in earnings. Overall, 89.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,903 2.0%
25 - 44 $85,916 1.6%
45 - 64 $90,551 1.1%
Over 65 $56,510 -1.6%
Above poverty level
33,351
Below poverty level
3,914
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 33,351 89.5% 0.3%
Below poverty level 3,914 10.5% 5.5%

Employment in Defiance County

Workforce and job types in Defiance County

The job market in Defiance County is powered by 18,432 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 61.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 38.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 73.3% are employed by private companies, and 11.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
18,432
-1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
11,283
Blue collar
7,149
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,283 61.2% -2.1%
Blue collar 7,149 38.8% -1.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
73.3%
Governmental workers
11.8%
Not for profit companies
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,394 7.6% -11.5%
Private companies 13,510 73.3% 0.3%
Governmental workers 2,178 11.8% 0.3%
Not for profit companies 1,350 7.3% -12.1%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
26.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Defiance County stands at 5.2%, 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 Defiance County

How people get around in Defiance County

In Defiance County, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% 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
-2.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,630 91.3% -1.5%
Taxicab 60 0.3% 200.0%
Motorcycle 15 0.1% -11.8%
Bicycle 27 0.2% -3.6%
Walk 256 1.4% -15.8%
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 Defiance County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
43506 14,734 6,663 $60,234 $80,401
43512 28,022 11,706 $71,841 $88,231
43517 3,442 1,452 $58,578 $81,876
43519 257 127 $78,114 $68,465
43526 6,464 2,260 $66,912 $80,823
43536 338 121 $68,625 $71,235
43548 832 311 $96,875 $102,478
43549 1,317 486 $84,189 $90,074
43556 1,670 606 $73,125 $87,594

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Defiance County demographics 

What is the total population of Defiance County?

Defiance County has a total population of 38,343 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Defiance County?

The gender ratio in Defiance County is as follows:
  • 50.7% males (19,443 residents)
  • 49.3% females (18,900 residents)

What is the median age in Defiance County?

The median age in Defiance County is 41.1.

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

The age distribution in Defiance County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (7,070 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.7% (4,872 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (9,372 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.2% (9,288 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.2% (7,741 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Defiance County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Defiance County is as follows:
  • White: 86.7% (33,256 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (633 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (50 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (124 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (109 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.1% (3,103 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (1,068 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.6% of the population in Defiance County.

How many housing units are there in Defiance County?

There are 16,565 housing units in Defiance 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 Defiance County and what is the average household size?

Defiance County has a total of 15,327 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Defiance County?

Defiance County has a median household income of $73,064, representing a -0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.8% in Defiance County, with a workforce of 18,432 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 61.2% (11,283 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 38.8% (7,149 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (1,394 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.3% (13,510 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.8% (2,178 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.3% (1,350 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