Deschutes County, OR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
206,334
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$92,758/yr
5.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
99,297
2.3% year-over-year change

Deschutes County population

How many people live in Deschutes County

Deschutes County is home to 206,334 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Deschutes County locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
206,334
1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
102,624
Female
50.3%
103,710
Value Percent YoY change
Male 102,624 49.7% 1.5%
Female 103,710 50.3% 1.8%
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 Deschutes County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.7% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
27.7%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
21.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 31,861 15.4% -0.5%
15 to 24 20,458 9.9% -0.0%
25 to 44 57,075 27.7% 2.8%
45 to 64 53,070 25.7% 0.8%
Over 65 43,870 21.3% 3.6%
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 Deschutes County, 94% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.3% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.2%
Non-citizens
2.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 193,928 94% 1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,678 3.2% -2.3%
Non-citizens 5,728 2.8% 3.8%
Racial breakdown
White
87.3%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
7.9%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 180,121 87.3%
Black or African American 882 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,528 0.7%
Asian 2,235 1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 345 0.2%
Two or more races 16,255 7.9%
Other 4,968 2.4%

Households in Deschutes County

A peek inside Deschutes County households

Deschutes County has 84,933 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.2% are families, while the remaining 34.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
84,933
2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
29,524
Family households
55,409
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 29,524 34.8% 4.2%
Family households 55,409 65.2% 1.0%
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 Deschutes County

The housing landscape of Deschutes County

Deschutes County's housing consists of 99,297 units, with 76% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.8% 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 4.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
99,297
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 75,423 76%
1 unit, attached 4,752 4.8%
2 units 2,110 2.1%
3 or 4 units 3,499 3.5%
5 to 9 units 2,237 2.2%
10 to 19 units 1,615 1.6%
20 to 49 units 1,888 1.9%
50 or more units 2,922 2.9%
Mobile home 4,287 4.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 564 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
4,125
79.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Deschutes County

In Deschutes County, the median construction year is 1998. About 2.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 25.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 16.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,807 2.8% -6.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,596 1.6% 6.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,918 1.9% 7.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,693 2.7% -9.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 14,361 14.5% 2.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 9,730 9.8% -2.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 20,275 20.4% -2.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 25,359 25.5% 0.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 16,433 16.6% 5.8%
Built in 2020 or later 4,125 4.2% 79.3%
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.

Deschutes County occupancy rates

Out of the 84,933 occupied housing units in Deschutes County, 70% are owner-occupied, while 30% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
84,933
2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
25,496
Owner occupied
59,437
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 25,496 30% 4.8%
Owner occupied 59,437 70% 1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
14.5%
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.

Deschutes County housing costs

Housing costs in Deschutes County come to a median of $1,765 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,787.

Median housing costs per month
$1,765/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 Deschutes County
$1,787/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 Deschutes County

Deschutes County education at a glance

About 24.9% of the population in Deschutes County went to high school, while 22.4% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 27.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,403 1.4% -11.6%
High school diploma 41,602 24.9% 2.3%
College diploma 37,474 22.4% -1.3%
Associate degree 14,897 8.9% -4.5%
Bachelor's degree 45,299 27.1% 6.3%
Graduate degree 25,590 15.3% 5.8%
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 Deschutes County

How much people earn in Deschutes County

The average annual household income in Deschutes County was $126,347 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $92,758, reflecting a +5.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Deschutes County
$126,347/year
5.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Deschutes County
$92,758/year
5.8% year-over-year change

Deschutes County income by age

In Deschutes County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $106,513. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $106,973 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $66,211, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $71,644 in earnings. Overall, 91.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $66,211 8.2%
25 - 44 $106,513 8.0%
45 - 64 $106,973 4.4%
Over 65 $71,644 2.7%
Above poverty level
184,885
Below poverty level
17,702
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 184,885 91.3% 2.2%
Below poverty level 17,702 8.7% -4.4%

Employment in Deschutes County

Workforce and job types in Deschutes County

The job market in Deschutes County is powered by 104,365 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 16.9% run their own businesses, 62.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
104,365
3.1% year-over-year change
White collar
86,494
Blue collar
17,871
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 86,494 82.9% 2.8%
Blue collar 17,871 17.1% 4.6%
Employer type
Self employees
16.9%
Private companies
62.7%
Governmental workers
12.3%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 17,635 16.9% 1.8%
Private companies 65,409 62.7% 3.4%
Governmental workers 12,798 12.3% 4.3%
Not for profit companies 8,523 8.2% 1.2%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
-3.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Deschutes County stands at 4.4%, 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 Deschutes County

How people get around in Deschutes County

Commuting methods vary: 72.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% 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 73,800 72.3% 0.4%
Taxicab 80 0.1% 42.9%
Bus or trolleybus 251 0.2% 0.4%
Subway or elevated 6 0% N/A
Ferryboat 34 0% 3.0%
Motorcycle 180 0.2% -20.7%
Bicycle 1,564 1.5% 11.4%
Walk 2,146 2.1% -2.8%
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 Deschutes County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
97701 43,293 18,264 $87,739 $108,602
97702 54,657 22,396 $96,112 $133,828
97707 6,661 3,085 $85,272 $121,350
97712 60 37 $0 $0
97739 13,183 5,675 $58,579 $71,287
97756 44,914 17,511 $87,278 $102,245
97759 7,737 3,267 $102,734 $123,736
97760 8,702 3,429 $87,603 $118,351

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FAQs about Deschutes County demographics 

What is the total population of Deschutes County?

Deschutes County has a total population of 206,334 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 +1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Deschutes County?

The gender ratio in Deschutes County is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (102,624 residents)
  • 50.3% females (103,710 residents)

What is the median age in Deschutes County?

The median age in Deschutes County is 42.9.

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

The age distribution in Deschutes County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (31,861 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (20,458 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.7% (57,075 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (53,070 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.3% (43,870 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Deschutes County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Deschutes County is as follows:
  • White: 87.3% (180,121 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (882 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (1,528 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (2,235 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (345 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.9% (16,255 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (4,968 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94% of the population in Deschutes County.

How many housing units are there in Deschutes County?

There are 99,297 housing units in Deschutes County, reflecting a +2.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Deschutes County has a total of 84,933 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Deschutes County?

Deschutes County has a median household income of $92,758, representing a +5.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Deschutes County, with a workforce of 104,365 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.9% (86,494 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.1% (17,871 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 16.9% (17,635 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.7% (65,409 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.3% (12,798 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (8,523 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