Martins Ferry, OH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,140
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$37,467/yr
-13.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,442
4.0% year-over-year change

Martins Ferry population

How many people live in Martins Ferry

Martins Ferry is home to 6,140 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Martins Ferry locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
6,140
-0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
3,044
Female
50.4%
3,096
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,044 49.6% -1.8%
Female 3,096 50.4% 0.1%
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 Martins Ferry is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 16% are children under 15, then 15.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.7% of the population, while another 21.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
16%
15 to 24
15.2%
25 to 44
26.7%
45 to 64
21.7%
Over 65
20.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 982 16% -11.7%
15 to 24 936 15.2% 9.2%
25 to 44 1,641 26.7% -9.8%
45 to 64 1,331 21.7% 4.5%
Over 65 1,250 20.4% 10.7%
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 Martins Ferry, 96.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.2% of locals are Caucasian, 6% are African American and 3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.8%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,920 96.4% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 171 2.8% -9.0%
Non-citizens 49 0.8% 122.7%
Racial breakdown
White
79.2%
Black or African American
6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
10.2%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 4,864 79.2%
Black or African American 371 6%
Asian 184 3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 8 0.1%
Two or more races 623 10.2%
Other 90 1.5%

Households in Martins Ferry

A peek inside Martins Ferry households

Martins Ferry has 2,895 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 52.9% are families, while the remaining 47.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,895
9.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,363
Family households
1,532
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,363 47.1% 37.3%
Family households 1,532 52.9% -7.0%
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 Martins Ferry

The housing landscape of Martins Ferry

Martins Ferry's housing consists of 3,442 units, with 66.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
3,442
4.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,303 66.9%
1 unit, attached 30 0.9%
2 units 220 6.4%
3 or 4 units 261 7.6%
5 to 9 units 178 5.2%
10 to 19 units 97 2.8%
20 to 49 units 166 4.8%
50 or more units 187 5.4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Martins Ferry

In Martins Ferry, the median construction year is 1947. About 42.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,469 42.7% -3.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 353 10.3% 13.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 478 13.9% 6.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 487 14.2% 11.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 367 10.7% 19.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 190 5.5% -21.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 83 2.4% 137.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8 0.2% N/A
Built between 2010 and 2019 7 0.2% 40.0%
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.

Martins Ferry occupancy rates

Out of the 2,895 occupied housing units in Martins Ferry, 53.9% are owner-occupied, while 46.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,895
9.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,334
Owner occupied
1,561
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,334 46.1% 18.3%
Owner occupied 1,561 53.9% 3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
15.9%
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.

Martins Ferry housing costs

Housing costs in Martins Ferry come to a median of $799 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $800.

Median housing costs per month
$799/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 Martins Ferry
$800/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 Martins Ferry

Martins Ferry education at a glance

About 55.6% of the population in Martins Ferry went to high school, while 22.8% pursued college studies. Another 8% earned an associate degree and 8.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 96 2% 118.2%
High school diploma 2,725 55.6% 1.6%
College diploma 1,120 22.8% 1.3%
Associate degree 393 8% -10.7%
Bachelor's degree 399 8.1% -13.3%
Graduate degree 168 3.4% 46.1%
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 Martins Ferry

How much people earn in Martins Ferry

The average annual household income in Martins Ferry was $54,487 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -6.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $37,467, reflecting a -13% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Martins Ferry
$54,487/year
-6.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Martins Ferry
$37,467/year
-13.0% year-over-year change

Martins Ferry income by age

In Martins Ferry, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $41,691. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $33,092 overall. Overall, 65.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $41,691 -25.6%
45 - 64 $33,092 -31.6%
Over 65 $38,693 4.8%
Above poverty level
3,880
Below poverty level
2,016
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,880 65.8% -9.6%
Below poverty level 2,016 34.2% 23.7%

Average renter income in Martins Ferry

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Martins Ferry, their median household income was $24,514 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,514
Rent-to-income ratio
39.2%
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 Martins Ferry

Workforce and job types in Martins Ferry

The job market in Martins Ferry is powered by 2,563 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 4.2% run their own businesses, 79.9% are employed by private companies, and 10.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,563
-3.3% year-over-year change
White collar
1,777
Blue collar
786
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,777 69.3% 0.2%
Blue collar 786 30.7% -10.4%
Employer type
Self employees
4.2%
Private companies
79.9%
Governmental workers
10.1%
Not for profit companies
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 108 4.2% 58.8%
Private companies 2,047 79.9% -8.0%
Governmental workers 260 10.1% 0.4%
Not for profit companies 148 5.8% 52.6%
Unemployment rate
14.1%
-25.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Martins Ferry stands at 14.1%, 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 Martins Ferry

How people get around in Martins Ferry

Commuting methods vary: 90.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% 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 2,319 90.5% -7.1%
Walk 56 2.2% 80.7%
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 Martins Ferry by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
43935 8,083 3,710 $45,923 $58,067

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FAQs about Martins Ferry demographics 

What is the total population of Martins Ferry?

Martins Ferry has a total population of 6,140 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 Martins Ferry?

The gender ratio in Martins Ferry is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (3,044 residents)
  • 50.4% females (3,096 residents)

What is the median age in Martins Ferry?

The median age in Martins Ferry is 40.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Martins Ferry?

The age distribution in Martins Ferry is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16% (982 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.2% (936 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.7% (1,641 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.7% (1,331 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.4% (1,250 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Martins Ferry?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Martins Ferry is as follows:
  • White: 79.2% (4,864 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6% (371 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 3% (184 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (8 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.2% (623 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (90 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.4% of the population in Martins Ferry.

How many housing units are there in Martins Ferry?

There are 3,442 housing units in Martins Ferry, reflecting a +4.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Martins Ferry has a total of 2,895 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Martins Ferry?

Martins Ferry has a median household income of $37,467, representing a -13.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Martins Ferry?

The employment rate is 85.9% in Martins Ferry, with a workforce of 2,563 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.3% (1,777 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.7% (786 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 4.2% (108 residents)
  • Private companies: 79.9% (2,047 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.1% (260 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.8% (148 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