Lima, OH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
35,010
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$46,240/yr
6.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,950
0.9% year-over-year change

Lima population

How many people live in Lima

Lima is home to 35,010 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51% of Lima locals are male, and 49% are female.

Total population
35,010
-0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51%
17,842
Female
49%
17,168
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,842 51% -1.1%
Female 17,168 49% -0.6%
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 Lima is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 19% are children under 15, then 14.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.8% of the population, while another 23.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
19%
15 to 24
14.8%
25 to 44
26.8%
45 to 64
23.3%
Over 65
16%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,663 19% -4.7%
15 to 24 5,188 14.8% -1.8%
25 to 44 9,374 26.8% -1.1%
45 to 64 8,170 23.3% 1.6%
Over 65 5,615 16% 1.9%
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 Lima, 96.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 65.6% of locals are Caucasian, 20.5% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
1.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 33,906 96.8% -1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 579 1.6% 18.4%
Non-citizens 525 1.5% 81.0%
Racial breakdown
White
65.6%
Black or African American
20.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.6%
Other
2%
Value Percent
White 22,963 65.6%
Black or African American 7,183 20.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 164 0.5%
Asian 309 0.9%
Two or more races 3,706 10.6%
Other 685 2%

Households in Lima

A peek inside Lima households

Lima has 14,273 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.1% are families, while the remaining 43.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,273
2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,272
Family households
8,001
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,272 43.9% -1.7%
Family households 8,001 56.1% 5.2%
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 Lima

The housing landscape of Lima

Lima's housing consists of 15,950 units, with 71.4% 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 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,950
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,393 71.4%
1 unit, attached 272 1.7%
2 units 812 5.1%
3 or 4 units 1,008 6.3%
5 to 9 units 859 5.4%
10 to 19 units 261 1.6%
20 to 49 units 474 3%
50 or more units 647 4.1%
Mobile home 224 1.4%
Homes built since 2020
116
50.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lima

In Lima, the median construction year is 1955. About 31.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,972 31.2% -9.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,808 11.3% 21.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,634 16.5% 2.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,971 12.4% 6.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,867 11.7% -5.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 878 5.5% -12.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 656 4.1% 13.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 380 2.4% -3.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 668 4.2% 83.5%
Built in 2020 or later 116 0.7% 50.6%
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.

Lima occupancy rates

Out of the 14,273 occupied housing units in Lima, 45.6% are owner-occupied, while 54.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,273
2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,763
Owner occupied
6,510
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,763 54.4% 3.5%
Owner occupied 6,510 45.6% 0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
10.5%
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.

Lima housing costs

Housing costs in Lima come to a median of $835 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $903.

Median housing costs per month
$835/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 Lima
$903/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 Lima

Lima education at a glance

About 55.3% of the population in Lima went to high school, while 22.1% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 7.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 551 2% -6.0%
High school diploma 14,893 55.3% -0.1%
College diploma 5,940 22.1% -5.3%
Associate degree 2,385 8.9% 11.1%
Bachelor's degree 2,098 7.8% 1.3%
Graduate degree 1,062 3.9% 22.5%
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 Lima

How much people earn in Lima

The average annual household income in Lima was $59,037 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $46,240, reflecting a +6.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lima
$59,037/year
7.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lima
$46,240/year
6.6% year-over-year change

Lima income by age

In Lima, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,669. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $47,284 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,591, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $36,784 in earnings. Overall, 76.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,591 22.0%
25 - 44 $60,669 14.0%
45 - 64 $47,284 8.8%
Over 65 $36,784 1.8%
Above poverty level
24,968
Below poverty level
7,816
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 24,968 76.2% 1.3%
Below poverty level 7,816 23.8% -1.6%

Average renter income in Lima

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Lima, their median household income was $35,713 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$35,713
Rent-to-income ratio
30.3%
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 Lima

Workforce and job types in Lima

The job market in Lima is powered by 14,697 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 4.8% run their own businesses, 76.9% are employed by private companies, and 8.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,697
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
9,190
Blue collar
5,507
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,190 62.5% -0.1%
Blue collar 5,507 37.5% 2.9%
Employer type
Self employees
4.8%
Private companies
76.9%
Governmental workers
8.2%
Not for profit companies
10.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 704 4.8% 1.7%
Private companies 11,306 76.9% -0.7%
Governmental workers 1,207 8.2% 6.8%
Not for profit companies 1,480 10.1% 9.8%
Unemployment rate
8.5%
-4.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lima stands at 8.5%, 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 Lima

How people get around in Lima

In Lima, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
17 min
-0.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,133 91.5% 2.0%
Taxicab 11 0.1% -50.0%
Bus or trolleybus 173 1.2% -14.8%
Motorcycle 7 0% N/A
Bicycle 145 1% 2.8%
Walk 185 1.3% -23.6%
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 Lima by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
45801 21,739 8,466 $51,731 $65,767
45804 13,608 5,994 $44,911 $59,676
45805 24,387 9,970 $68,842 $83,803
45806 10,974 4,343 $82,587 $103,093
45807 11,774 5,027 $70,725 $98,732
45854 293 125 $53,125 $67,581

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FAQs about Lima demographics 

What is the total population of Lima?

Lima has a total population of 35,010 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 -0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lima?

The gender ratio in Lima is as follows:
  • 51% males (17,842 residents)
  • 49% females (17,168 residents)

What is the median age in Lima?

The median age in Lima is 36.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lima?

The age distribution in Lima is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19% (6,663 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.8% (5,188 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.8% (9,374 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.3% (8,170 residents)
  • Over 65: 16% (5,615 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lima?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lima is as follows:
  • White: 65.6% (22,963 residents)
  • Black or African American: 20.5% (7,183 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (164 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (309 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.6% (3,706 residents)
  • Other: 2% (685 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.8% of the population in Lima.

How many housing units are there in Lima?

There are 15,950 housing units in Lima, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lima has a total of 14,273 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lima?

Lima has a median household income of $46,240, representing a +6.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.5% in Lima, with a workforce of 14,697 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62.5% (9,190 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37.5% (5,507 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 4.8% (704 residents)
  • Private companies: 76.9% (11,306 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.2% (1,207 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.1% (1,480 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