Fostoria, OH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
12,344
-2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,151/yr
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,793
-0.8% year-over-year change

Fostoria population

How many people live in Fostoria

Fostoria is home to 12,344 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Fostoria locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
12,344
-2.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
6,027
Female
51.2%
6,317
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,027 48.8% -4.3%
Female 6,317 51.2% -0.9%
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 Fostoria is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 14.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.4% of the population, while another 24.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
14.9%
25 to 44
23.4%
45 to 64
24.9%
Over 65
18%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,322 18.8% -5.7%
15 to 24 1,838 14.9% -5.3%
25 to 44 2,895 23.4% 2.2%
45 to 64 3,072 24.9% -3.6%
Over 65 2,217 18% -1.4%
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 Fostoria, 97.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.9% of locals are Caucasian, 5.7% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.6%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,075 97.8% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 68 0.6% -72.4%
Non-citizens 201 1.6% -6.5%
Racial breakdown
White
79.9%
Black or African American
5.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
8.8%
Other
4.5%
Value Percent
White 9,861 79.9%
Black or African American 703 5.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 33 0.3%
Asian 100 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 15 0.1%
Two or more races 1,080 8.8%
Other 552 4.5%

Households in Fostoria

A peek inside Fostoria households

Fostoria has 5,097 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.6% are families, while the remaining 39.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,097
-0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,010
Family households
3,087
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,010 39.4% -3.9%
Family households 3,087 60.6% 1.6%
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 Fostoria

The housing landscape of Fostoria

Fostoria's housing consists of 5,793 units, with 72.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.7% 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 7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,793
-0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,184 72.2%
1 unit, attached 216 3.7%
2 units 226 3.9%
3 or 4 units 358 6.2%
5 to 9 units 111 1.9%
10 to 19 units 109 1.9%
20 to 49 units 116 2%
50 or more units 68 1.2%
Mobile home 405 7%
Homes built since 2020
9
28.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fostoria

In Fostoria, the median construction year is 1952. About 40.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1% 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 2,366 40.8% 0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 393 6.8% 33.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 731 12.6% -17.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 582 10% -9.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 868 15% 4.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 348 6% -14.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 237 4.1% 16.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 204 3.5% 19.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 55 1% 120.0%
Built in 2020 or later 9 0.2% 28.6%
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.

Fostoria occupancy rates

Out of the 5,097 occupied housing units in Fostoria, 66.4% are owner-occupied, while 33.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,097
-0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,712
Owner occupied
3,385
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,712 33.6% 0.9%
Owner occupied 3,385 66.4% -1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
12.0%
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.

Fostoria housing costs

Housing costs in Fostoria come to a median of $722 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $809.

Median housing costs per month
$722/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 Fostoria
$809/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 Fostoria

Fostoria education at a glance

About 62.4% of the population in Fostoria went to high school, while 17% pursued college studies. Another 9.3% earned an associate degree and 6.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 209 2.2% 25.1%
High school diploma 5,899 62.4% -0.6%
College diploma 1,603 17% -9.2%
Associate degree 879 9.3% 3.2%
Bachelor's degree 587 6.2% -2.6%
Graduate degree 271 2.9% -14.8%
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 Fostoria

How much people earn in Fostoria

The average annual household income in Fostoria was $62,596 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,151, reflecting a +2.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fostoria
$62,596/year
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fostoria
$54,151/year
2.3% year-over-year change

Fostoria income by age

In Fostoria, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,988. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,418 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,081, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,432 in earnings. Overall, 83.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,081 -0.9%
25 - 44 $63,988 2.1%
45 - 64 $61,418 4.6%
Over 65 $42,432 -10.0%
Above poverty level
9,946
Below poverty level
1,969
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,946 83.5% 2.6%
Below poverty level 1,969 16.5% -16.9%

Average renter income in Fostoria

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fostoria, their median household income was $31,061 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$31,061
Rent-to-income ratio
31.3%
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 Fostoria

Workforce and job types in Fostoria

The job market in Fostoria is powered by 5,798 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 54.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 45.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.2% run their own businesses, 77.5% are employed by private companies, and 9.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,798
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
3,171
Blue collar
2,627
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,171 54.7% 5.8%
Blue collar 2,627 45.3% -6.8%
Employer type
Self employees
5.2%
Private companies
77.5%
Governmental workers
9.1%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 302 5.2% -5.9%
Private companies 4,493 77.5% -2.4%
Governmental workers 527 9.1% 8.9%
Not for profit companies 476 8.2% 15.8%
Unemployment rate
6.2%
-12.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fostoria stands at 6.2%, 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 Fostoria

How people get around in Fostoria

Commuting methods vary: 92.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.5% 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 5,279 92.4% 1.4%
Taxicab 53 0.9% -10.2%
Bus or trolleybus 22 0.4% 29.4%
Walk 200 3.5% 21.2%
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 Fostoria by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
44830 18,671 7,476 $62,990 $72,046

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FAQs about Fostoria demographics 

What is the total population of Fostoria?

Fostoria has a total population of 12,344 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 -2.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fostoria?

The gender ratio in Fostoria is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (6,027 residents)
  • 51.2% females (6,317 residents)

What is the median age in Fostoria?

The median age in Fostoria is 39.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fostoria?

The age distribution in Fostoria is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (2,322 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.9% (1,838 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.4% (2,895 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.9% (3,072 residents)
  • Over 65: 18% (2,217 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fostoria?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fostoria is as follows:
  • White: 79.9% (9,861 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.7% (703 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (33 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (100 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (15 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.8% (1,080 residents)
  • Other: 4.5% (552 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.8% of the population in Fostoria.

How many housing units are there in Fostoria?

There are 5,793 housing units in Fostoria, reflecting a -0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fostoria has a total of 5,097 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fostoria?

Fostoria has a median household income of $54,151, representing a +2.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.8% in Fostoria, with a workforce of 5,798 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 54.7% (3,171 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 45.3% (2,627 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.2% (302 residents)
  • Private companies: 77.5% (4,493 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.1% (527 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (476 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