Fossil, OR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
535
19.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,167/yr
11.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
256
-3.4% year-over-year change

Fossil population

How many people live in Fossil

Fossil is home to 535 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 42.2% of Fossil locals are male, and 57.8% are female.

Total population
535
19.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
42.2%
226
Female
57.8%
309
Value Percent YoY change
Male 226 42.2% 17.1%
Female 309 57.8% 21.2%
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 Fossil is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 10.1% are children under 15, then 7.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.3% of the population, while another 24.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 30.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
48.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
10.1%
15 to 24
7.5%
25 to 44
27.3%
45 to 64
24.3%
Over 65
30.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 54 10.1% 116.0%
15 to 24 40 7.5% 29.0%
25 to 44 146 27.3% 23.7%
45 to 64 130 24.3% 8.3%
Over 65 165 30.8% 7.1%
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

At the same time, 1.5% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 2.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
1.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 527 98.5% 20.1%
Non-citizens 8 1.5% -11.1%
Racial breakdown
White
95.7%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.4%
Other
1.9%
Value Percent
White 512 95.7%
Two or more races 13 2.4%
Other 10 1.9%

Households in Fossil

A peek inside Fossil households

Fossil has 248 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.2% are families, while the remaining 44.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
248
4.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
111
Family households
137
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 111 44.8% -0.9%
Family households 137 55.2% 9.6%
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 Fossil

The housing landscape of Fossil

Fossil's housing consists of 256 units, with 89.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 10.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
256
-3.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 229 89.4%
Mobile home 27 10.6%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fossil

In Fossil, the median construction year is 1957. About 32% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7% 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 82 32% -1.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 18 7% 0.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 42 16.4% 75.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 22 8.6% -4.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6 2.3% -60.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 48 18.8% -27.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 38 14.8% 5.6%
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.

Fossil occupancy rates

Out of the 248 occupied housing units in Fossil, 79.8% are owner-occupied, while 20.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
248
4.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
50
Owner occupied
198
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 50 20.2% -5.7%
Owner occupied 198 79.8% 7.6%
Unoccupied housing units
3.1%
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.

Fossil housing costs

Housing costs in Fossil come to a median of $960 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $754.

Median housing costs per month
$960/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 Fossil
$754/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 Fossil

Fossil education at a glance

About 38.6% of the population in Fossil went to high school, while 24.4% pursued college studies. Another 15.1% earned an associate degree and 10% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 20 4.2% -23.1%
High school diploma 182 38.6% 9.0%
College diploma 115 24.4% 8.5%
Associate degree 71 15.1% 255.0%
Bachelor's degree 47 10% -4.1%
Graduate degree 36 7.6% -12.2%
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 Fossil

How much people earn in Fossil

The average annual household income in Fossil was $65,813 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,167, reflecting a +11.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fossil
$65,813/year
6.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fossil
$54,167/year
11.8% year-over-year change

Fossil income by age

Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $55,125 overall. Overall, 88.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
45 - 64 $55,125 5.6%
Over 65 $35,341 -0.2%
Above poverty level
458
Below poverty level
62
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 458 88.1% 12.5%
Below poverty level 62 11.9% 51.2%

Average renter income in Fossil

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fossil, their median household income was $47,857 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 18.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$47,857
Rent-to-income ratio
18.9%
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 Fossil

Workforce and job types in Fossil

The job market in Fossil is powered by 216 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 38.4% are employed by private companies, and 30.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
216
46.0% year-over-year change
White collar
165
Blue collar
51
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 165 76.4% 44.7%
Blue collar 51 23.6% 50.0%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
38.4%
Governmental workers
30.1%
Not for profit companies
22.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 19 8.8% -13.6%
Private companies 83 38.4% 130.6%
Governmental workers 65 30.1% 54.8%
Not for profit companies 49 22.7% 2.1%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
120.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fossil stands at 4.8%, 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 Fossil

How people get around in Fossil

Commuting methods vary: 67% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 8.6% 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 140 67% 40.0%
Walk 18 8.6% -10.0%
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 Fossil by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
97830 800 375 $54,583 $93,131

Explore more communities

FAQs about Fossil demographics 

What is the total population of Fossil?

Fossil has a total population of 535 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 +19.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fossil?

The gender ratio in Fossil is as follows:
  • 42.2% males (226 residents)
  • 57.8% females (309 residents)

What is the median age in Fossil?

The median age in Fossil is 48.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fossil?

The age distribution in Fossil is as follows:
  • Under 15: 10.1% (54 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.5% (40 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.3% (146 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.3% (130 residents)
  • Over 65: 30.8% (165 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fossil?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fossil is as follows:
  • White: 95.7% (512 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.4% (13 residents)
  • Other: 1.9% (10 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.5% of the population in Fossil.

How many housing units are there in Fossil?

There are 256 housing units in Fossil, reflecting a -3.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fossil has a total of 248 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fossil?

Fossil has a median household income of $54,167, representing a +11.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.2% in Fossil, with a workforce of 216 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.4% (165 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.6% (51 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (19 residents)
  • Private companies: 38.4% (83 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 30.1% (65 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 22.7% (49 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