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

Total population
317,129
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$73,347/yr
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
136,548
0.7% year-over-year change

Lorain County population

How many people live in Lorain County

Lorain County is home to 317,129 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Lorain County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
317,129
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
157,217
Female
50.4%
159,912
Value Percent YoY change
Male 157,217 49.6% 0.9%
Female 159,912 50.4% 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 Lorain County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.6% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.9% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.6%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
23.9%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
19.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 55,948 17.6% -0.2%
15 to 24 38,350 12.1% 0.3%
25 to 44 75,708 23.9% 1.7%
45 to 64 84,221 26.6% -0.7%
Over 65 62,902 19.8% 3.1%
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 Lorain County, 94.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 78% of locals are Caucasian, 7.7% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.2%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 300,200 94.7% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 13,189 4.2% 3.0%
Non-citizens 3,740 1.2% -0.3%
Racial breakdown
White
78%
Black or African American
7.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.1%
Other
2.6%
Value Percent
White 247,434 78%
Black or African American 24,301 7.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 494 0.2%
Asian 4,481 1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 57 0%
Two or more races 32,168 10.1%
Other 8,194 2.6%

Households in Lorain County

A peek inside Lorain County households

Lorain County has 127,544 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.5% are families, while the remaining 37.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
127,544
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
47,792
Family households
79,752
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 47,792 37.5% 1.3%
Family households 79,752 62.5% 1.4%
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 Lorain County

The housing landscape of Lorain County

Lorain County's housing consists of 136,548 units, with 76.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.2% 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 1.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
136,548
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 104,303 76.4%
1 unit, attached 8,446 6.2%
2 units 3,220 2.4%
3 or 4 units 2,944 2.2%
5 to 9 units 4,228 3.1%
10 to 19 units 4,974 3.6%
20 to 49 units 2,217 1.6%
50 or more units 3,571 2.6%
Mobile home 2,630 1.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 15 0%
Homes built since 2020
2,381
51.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lorain County

In Lorain County, the median construction year is 1973. About 13.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 19,006 13.9% -4.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 7,040 5.2% 7.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 19,353 14.2% 1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 17,540 12.8% -1.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 19,774 14.5% -1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 8,988 6.6% -1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 15,268 11.2% 0.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 17,928 13.1% 3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 9,270 6.8% 3.6%
Built in 2020 or later 2,381 1.7% 51.4%
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.

Lorain County occupancy rates

Out of the 127,544 occupied housing units in Lorain County, 74% are owner-occupied, while 26% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
127,544
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
33,139
Owner occupied
94,405
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 33,139 26% 0.1%
Owner occupied 94,405 74% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
6.6%
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.

Lorain County housing costs

Housing costs in Lorain County come to a median of $1,078 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $966.

Median housing costs per month
$1,078/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 Lorain County
$966/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 Lorain County

Lorain County education at a glance

About 37.9% of the population in Lorain County went to high school, while 23.1% pursued college studies. Another 10.2% earned an associate degree and 17.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,863 2% -5.3%
High school diploma 94,341 37.9% -0.1%
College diploma 57,458 23.1% 1.0%
Associate degree 25,266 10.2% -0.5%
Bachelor's degree 42,635 17.1% 4.2%
Graduate degree 24,235 9.7% 3.4%
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 Lorain County

How much people earn in Lorain County

The average annual household income in Lorain County was $98,714 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $73,347, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lorain County
$98,714/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lorain County
$73,347/year
3.8% year-over-year change

Lorain County income by age

In Lorain County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $85,527. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $93,162 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,766, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,270 in earnings. Overall, 88% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,766 3.5%
25 - 44 $85,527 4.8%
45 - 64 $93,162 4.7%
Over 65 $53,270 0.6%
Above poverty level
268,424
Below poverty level
36,467
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 268,424 88% 1.7%
Below poverty level 36,467 12% -4.5%

Employment in Lorain County

Workforce and job types in Lorain County

The job market in Lorain County is powered by 149,776 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.2% run their own businesses, 69.2% are employed by private companies, and 14% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
149,776
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
114,001
Blue collar
35,775
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 114,001 76.1% 1.5%
Blue collar 35,775 23.9% 1.7%
Employer type
Self employees
7.2%
Private companies
69.2%
Governmental workers
14%
Not for profit companies
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 10,725 7.2% 3.1%
Private companies 103,624 69.2% 0.7%
Governmental workers 21,030 14% 2.0%
Not for profit companies 14,397 9.6% 6.2%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
-1.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lorain County stands at 4.3%, 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 Lorain County

How people get around in Lorain County

Commuting methods vary: 85.4% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 125,751 85.4% -0.1%
Taxicab 64 0% -47.5%
Bus or trolleybus 203 0.1% -54.5%
Subway or elevated 28 0% N/A
Ferryboat 13 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 64 0% 137.0%
Bicycle 238 0.2% 47.8%
Walk 2,140 1.4% -10.3%
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 Lorain County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
44028 9,671 3,983 $87,595 $122,952
44035 62,179 26,724 $56,408 $73,613
44039 36,780 14,162 $96,485 $113,842
44044 14,721 4,262 $88,333 $108,752
44049 246 98 $68,929 $83,880
44050 7,059 2,644 $103,611 $120,626
44052 28,282 11,980 $45,023 $58,903
44001 21,448 8,194 $90,139 $110,694
44011 25,317 9,502 $135,915 $168,137
44012 25,752 10,896 $115,567 $151,641

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FAQs about Lorain County demographics 

What is the total population of Lorain County?

Lorain County has a total population of 317,129 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 Lorain County?

The gender ratio in Lorain County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (157,217 residents)
  • 50.4% females (159,912 residents)

What is the median age in Lorain County?

The median age in Lorain County is 42.1.

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

The age distribution in Lorain County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.6% (55,948 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (38,350 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.9% (75,708 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (84,221 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.8% (62,902 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lorain County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lorain County is as follows:
  • White: 78% (247,434 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.7% (24,301 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (494 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (4,481 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (57 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.1% (32,168 residents)
  • Other: 2.6% (8,194 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.7% of the population in Lorain County.

How many housing units are there in Lorain County?

There are 136,548 housing units in Lorain County, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lorain County has a total of 127,544 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lorain County?

Lorain County has a median household income of $73,347, representing a +3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.7% in Lorain County, with a workforce of 149,776 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.1% (114,001 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.9% (35,775 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.2% (10,725 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.2% (103,624 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14% (21,030 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.6% (14,397 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