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

Total population
161,956
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$75,766/yr
4.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
71,325
0.4% year-over-year change

Portage County population

How many people live in Portage County

Portage County is home to 161,956 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Portage County locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
161,956
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
79,886
Female
50.7%
82,070
Value Percent YoY change
Male 79,886 49.3% 0.4%
Female 82,070 50.7% 0.3%
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 Portage County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.7% are children under 15, then 18.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.2% of the population, while another 25.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.7%
15 to 24
18.3%
25 to 44
23.2%
45 to 64
25.4%
Over 65
18.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 23,849 14.7% -0.9%
15 to 24 29,707 18.3% -0.7%
25 to 44 37,649 23.2% 1.9%
45 to 64 41,049 25.4% -1.8%
Over 65 29,702 18.3% 3.5%
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 Portage County, 95.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.5% of locals are Caucasian, 5% are African American and 2.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 154,847 95.6% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,910 2.4% 1.4%
Non-citizens 3,199 2% 8.7%
Racial breakdown
White
86.5%
Black or African American
5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
2.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.2%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 140,144 86.5%
Black or African American 8,127 5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 174 0.1%
Asian 3,536 2.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 14 0%
Two or more races 8,442 5.2%
Other 1,519 0.9%

Households in Portage County

A peek inside Portage County households

Portage County has 65,249 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.4% are families, while the remaining 38.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
65,249
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
25,175
Family households
40,074
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 25,175 38.6% 2.2%
Family households 40,074 61.4% 0.3%
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 Portage County

The housing landscape of Portage County

Portage County's housing consists of 71,325 units, with 64.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.5% 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 6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
71,325
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 46,223 64.8%
1 unit, attached 4,666 6.5%
2 units 2,248 3.2%
3 or 4 units 2,681 3.8%
5 to 9 units 3,497 4.9%
10 to 19 units 3,234 4.5%
20 to 49 units 1,028 1.4%
50 or more units 3,377 4.7%
Mobile home 4,318 6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 53 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
639
54.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Portage County

In Portage County, the median construction year is 1977. About 12.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 8,967 12.6% -0.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,680 3.8% -5.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 6,984 9.8% -10.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 8,927 12.5% -2.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 11,532 16.2% 2.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,977 9.8% 7.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 10,063 14.1% 3.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 9,129 12.8% 3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,427 7.6% -1.3%
Built in 2020 or later 639 0.9% 54.4%
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.

Portage County occupancy rates

Out of the 65,249 occupied housing units in Portage County, 70.1% are owner-occupied, while 29.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
65,249
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
19,481
Owner occupied
45,768
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 19,481 29.9% 1.1%
Owner occupied 45,768 70.1% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
8.5%
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.

Portage County housing costs

Housing costs in Portage County come to a median of $1,115 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,064.

Median housing costs per month
$1,115/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 Portage County
$1,064/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 Portage County

Portage County education at a glance

About 38.1% of the population in Portage County went to high school, while 24% pursued college studies. Another 7.3% earned an associate degree and 18.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,379 1.8% 5.7%
High school diploma 50,511 38.1% -2.1%
College diploma 31,796 24% -0.4%
Associate degree 9,714 7.3% 2.5%
Bachelor's degree 24,213 18.3% 6.5%
Graduate degree 13,877 10.5% 0.6%
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 Portage County

How much people earn in Portage County

The average annual household income in Portage County was $97,106 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $75,766, reflecting a +4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Portage County
$97,106/year
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Portage County
$75,766/year
4.0% year-over-year change

Portage County income by age

In Portage County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,818. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $94,129 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $30,419, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,251 in earnings. Overall, 88.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $30,419 -3.6%
25 - 44 $86,818 5.3%
45 - 64 $94,129 2.8%
Over 65 $60,251 4.2%
Above poverty level
135,637
Below poverty level
17,954
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 135,637 88.3% -0.0%
Below poverty level 17,954 11.7% 2.7%

Employment in Portage County

Workforce and job types in Portage County

The job market in Portage County is powered by 83,040 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.2% run their own businesses, 72.2% are employed by private companies, and 13% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
83,040
0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
62,300
Blue collar
20,740
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 62,300 75% 1.3%
Blue collar 20,740 25% -2.5%
Employer type
Self employees
8.2%
Private companies
72.2%
Governmental workers
13%
Not for profit companies
6.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,797 8.2% -1.1%
Private companies 59,989 72.2% -1.1%
Governmental workers 10,759 13% 5.4%
Not for profit companies 5,495 6.6% 9.3%
Unemployment rate
5.3%
1.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Portage County stands at 5.3%, 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 Portage County

How people get around in Portage County

Commuting methods vary: 80.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% 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 65,390 80.6% -1.0%
Taxicab 18 0% 28.6%
Bus or trolleybus 560 0.7% 7.7%
Subway or elevated 20 0% N/A
Motorcycle 60 0.1% 114.3%
Bicycle 187 0.2% 47.2%
Walk 2,351 2.9% 7.3%
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 Portage County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
44201 6,666 2,552 $79,459 $89,726
44202 23,084 9,309 $118,750 $154,532
44231 8,215 3,241 $78,609 $87,500
44234 3,617 1,363 $75,547 $97,708
44240 37,788 16,753 $57,627 $80,353
44241 18,548 7,759 $88,517 $98,716
44243 5,082 0 $0 $0
44255 7,318 2,889 $78,099 $113,702
44260 12,780 5,248 $82,444 $98,994

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FAQs about Portage County demographics 

What is the total population of Portage County?

Portage County has a total population of 161,956 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 Portage County?

The gender ratio in Portage County is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (79,886 residents)
  • 50.7% females (82,070 residents)

What is the median age in Portage County?

The median age in Portage County is 39.6.

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

The age distribution in Portage County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.7% (23,849 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.3% (29,707 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.2% (37,649 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.4% (41,049 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.3% (29,702 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Portage County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Portage County is as follows:
  • White: 86.5% (140,144 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5% (8,127 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (174 residents)
  • Asian: 2.2% (3,536 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (14 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.2% (8,442 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (1,519 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.6% of the population in Portage County.

How many housing units are there in Portage County?

There are 71,325 housing units in Portage County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Portage County has a total of 65,249 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Portage County?

Portage County has a median household income of $75,766, representing a +4.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.7% in Portage County, with a workforce of 83,040 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75% (62,300 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25% (20,740 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.2% (6,797 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.2% (59,989 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13% (10,759 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.6% (5,495 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