Lorain, OH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
65,395
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$48,685/yr
6.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
30,624
0.6% year-over-year change

Lorain population

How many people live in Lorain

Lorain is home to 65,395 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Lorain locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
65,395
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
31,769
Female
51.4%
33,626
Value Percent YoY change
Male 31,769 48.6% -0.4%
Female 33,626 51.4% 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 Lorain is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19% are children under 15, then 13.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
19%
15 to 24
13.3%
25 to 44
24%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
17.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 12,446 19% -4.6%
15 to 24 8,717 13.3% -0.3%
25 to 44 15,675 24% 2.2%
45 to 64 17,037 26% -1.3%
Over 65 11,520 17.6% 6.6%
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, 90% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 53.6% of locals are Caucasian, 18.3% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 19.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.9%
Non-citizens
1.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 58,882 90% 0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,822 8.9% -4.7%
Non-citizens 691 1.1% -5.6%
Racial breakdown
White
53.6%
Black or African American
18.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
19.7%
Other
7.7%
Value Percent
White 35,050 53.6%
Black or African American 11,942 18.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 183 0.3%
Asian 296 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 35 0%
Two or more races 12,882 19.7%
Other 5,007 7.7%

Households in Lorain

A peek inside Lorain households

Lorain has 27,460 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55% are families, while the remaining 45% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
27,460
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
12,345
Family households
15,115
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 12,345 45% -0.4%
Family households 15,115 55% 2.2%
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 Lorain

The housing landscape of Lorain

Lorain's housing consists of 30,624 units, with 68.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.7% 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 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
30,624
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 21,098 68.9%
1 unit, attached 2,053 6.7%
2 units 1,438 4.7%
3 or 4 units 915 3%
5 to 9 units 1,420 4.6%
10 to 19 units 1,818 5.9%
20 to 49 units 604 2%
50 or more units 1,109 3.6%
Mobile home 169 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
180
68.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lorain

In Lorain, the median construction year is 1961. About 20.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4% 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 6,251 20.4% -10.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,669 8.7% 17.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,941 19.4% 11.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,534 18.1% -2.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,003 13.1% -1.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,372 4.5% -20.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,458 4.8% 2.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,979 6.5% 8.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,237 4% 18.3%
Built in 2020 or later 180 0.6% 68.2%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 27,460 occupied housing units in Lorain, 57.1% are owner-occupied, while 42.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
27,460
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
11,779
Owner occupied
15,681
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 11,779 42.9% -2.0%
Owner occupied 15,681 57.1% 3.5%
Unoccupied housing units
10.3%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Lorain come to a median of $873 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $887.

Median housing costs per month
$873/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
$887/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

Lorain education at a glance

About 47.6% of the population in Lorain went to high school, while 23.8% pursued college studies. Another 9.4% earned an associate degree and 10.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,370 4.7% 3.9%
High school diploma 23,836 47.6% 0.9%
College diploma 11,931 23.8% 2.6%
Associate degree 4,678 9.4% -6.9%
Bachelor's degree 5,189 10.4% 11.7%
Graduate degree 2,015 4% -4.0%
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 Lorain

How much people earn in Lorain

The average annual household income in Lorain was $64,081 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $48,685, reflecting a +6.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lorain
$64,081/year
3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lorain
$48,685/year
6.3% year-over-year change

Lorain income by age

In Lorain, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,585. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $55,781 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $28,616, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,362 in earnings. Overall, 75.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $28,616 0.0%
25 - 44 $53,585 9.2%
45 - 64 $55,781 5.6%
Over 65 $37,362 -2.5%
Above poverty level
47,998
Below poverty level
15,898
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 47,998 75.1% 3.3%
Below poverty level 15,898 24.9% -7.1%

Average renter income in Lorain

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Lorain, their median household income was $29,467 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$29,467
Rent-to-income ratio
36.1%
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 Lorain

Workforce and job types in Lorain

The job market in Lorain is powered by 28,334 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.1% run their own businesses, 73.9% are employed by private companies, and 13.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
28,334
4.9% year-over-year change
White collar
20,268
Blue collar
8,066
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 20,268 71.5% 4.8%
Blue collar 8,066 28.5% 5.2%
Employer type
Self employees
5.1%
Private companies
73.9%
Governmental workers
13.5%
Not for profit companies
7.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,441 5.1% 10.2%
Private companies 20,944 73.9% 4.4%
Governmental workers 3,825 13.5% 4.6%
Not for profit companies 2,124 7.5% 7.2%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
-5.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lorain stands at 6.3%, 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

How people get around in Lorain

In Lorain, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
1.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 24,838 90.2% 3.9%
Taxicab 51 0.2% 37.8%
Bus or trolleybus 59 0.2% -31.4%
Motorcycle 22 0.1% N/A
Bicycle 42 0.2% 44.8%
Walk 155 0.6% -11.9%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
44052 28,282 11,980 $45,023 $58,903
44053 21,084 8,900 $67,484 $82,000
44055 20,043 8,440 $40,636 $51,483

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Lorain demographics 

What is the total population of Lorain?

Lorain has a total population of 65,395 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lorain?

The gender ratio in Lorain is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (31,769 residents)
  • 51.4% females (33,626 residents)

What is the median age in Lorain?

The median age in Lorain is 39.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lorain?

The age distribution in Lorain is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19% (12,446 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.3% (8,717 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24% (15,675 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (17,037 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.6% (11,520 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lorain?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lorain is as follows:
  • White: 53.6% (35,050 residents)
  • Black or African American: 18.3% (11,942 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (183 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (296 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (35 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.7% (12,882 residents)
  • Other: 7.7% (5,007 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90% of the population in Lorain.

How many housing units are there in Lorain?

There are 30,624 housing units in Lorain, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lorain has a total of 27,460 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lorain?

Lorain has a median household income of $48,685, representing a +6.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.7% in Lorain, with a workforce of 28,334 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.5% (20,268 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.5% (8,066 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.1% (1,441 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.9% (20,944 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.5% (3,825 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.5% (2,124 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