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

Total population
7,499
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,208/yr
14.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,732
0.4% year-over-year change

Harney County population

How many people live in Harney County

Harney County is home to 7,499 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Harney County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
7,499
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
3,789
Female
49.5%
3,710
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,789 50.5% -0.5%
Female 3,710 49.5% 0.0%
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 Harney County is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.2% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.6% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 26.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.2%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
21.6%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
26.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,136 15.2% -0.6%
15 to 24 845 11.3% 3.9%
25 to 44 1,620 21.6% -6.2%
45 to 64 1,920 25.6% 1.2%
Over 65 1,978 26.4% 2.3%
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 Harney County, 97% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.7% of locals are Caucasian, 1.9% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. Another 1.8% are Indigenous American, 0.5% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.5%
Non-citizens
1.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,276 97% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 113 1.5% 44.9%
Non-citizens 110 1.5% -21.4%
Racial breakdown
White
86.7%
Black or African American
1.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.8%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.5%
Two or more races
8.6%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 6,503 86.7%
Black or African American 140 1.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 135 1.8%
Asian 15 0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 35 0.5%
Two or more races 642 8.6%
Other 29 0.4%

Households in Harney County

A peek inside Harney County households

Harney County has 3,129 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.7% are families, while the remaining 37.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,129
-0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,167
Family households
1,962
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,167 37.3% -4.4%
Family households 1,962 62.7% 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 Harney County

The housing landscape of Harney County

Harney County's housing consists of 3,732 units, with 63.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.2% 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 25.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,732
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,361 63.3%
1 unit, attached 6 0.2%
2 units 149 4%
3 or 4 units 19 0.5%
5 to 9 units 53 1.4%
10 to 19 units 95 2.6%
20 to 49 units 55 1.5%
50 or more units 55 1.5%
Mobile home 937 25.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2 0%
Homes built since 2020
51
64.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Harney County

In Harney County, the median construction year is 1974. About 16.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 605 16.2% 3.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 89 2.4% -55.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 525 14.1% -1.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 366 9.8% 15.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 790 21.2% 39.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 408 10.9% 11.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 575 15.4% -2.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 162 4.3% -54.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 161 4.3% -9.6%
Built in 2020 or later 51 1.4% 64.5%
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.

Harney County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,129 occupied housing units in Harney County, 67.4% are owner-occupied, while 32.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,129
-0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,020
Owner occupied
2,109
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,020 32.6% -1.1%
Owner occupied 2,109 67.4% -0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
16.2%
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.

Harney County housing costs

Housing costs in Harney County come to a median of $728 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $684.

Median housing costs per month
$728/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 Harney County
$684/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 Harney County

Harney County education at a glance

About 42.1% of the population in Harney County went to high school, while 26.4% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 9.6% 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 203 3.3% -2.4%
High school diploma 2,573 42.1% -2.8%
College diploma 1,614 26.4% -2.5%
Associate degree 672 11% -8.2%
Bachelor's degree 584 9.6% 19.4%
Graduate degree 464 7.6% 14.0%
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 Harney County

How much people earn in Harney County

The average annual household income in Harney County was $77,287 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +19.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,208, reflecting a +14.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Harney County
$77,287/year
19.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Harney County
$55,208/year
14.2% year-over-year change

Harney County income by age

In Harney County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $54,592. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,726 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,068, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,286 in earnings. Overall, 86.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,068 3.4%
25 - 44 $54,592 -11.1%
45 - 64 $76,726 53.6%
Over 65 $38,286 7.5%
Above poverty level
6,319
Below poverty level
1,007
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,319 86.2% -1.4%
Below poverty level 1,007 13.8% 6.9%

Employment in Harney County

Workforce and job types in Harney County

The job market in Harney County is powered by 3,239 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19.1% run their own businesses, 52.5% are employed by private companies, and 25.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,239
3.8% year-over-year change
White collar
2,278
Blue collar
961
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,278 70.3% -0.5%
Blue collar 961 29.7% 15.5%
Employer type
Self employees
19.1%
Private companies
52.5%
Governmental workers
25.2%
Not for profit companies
3.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 618 19.1% 23.6%
Private companies 1,701 52.5% 3.6%
Governmental workers 818 25.2% -9.4%
Not for profit companies 102 3.2% 32.5%
Unemployment rate
3.7%
-13.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Harney County stands at 3.7%, 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 Harney County

How people get around in Harney County

Commuting methods vary: 80.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% 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 2,610 80.5% 5.5%
Bus or trolleybus 5 0.2% 0.0%
Walk 111 3.4% -39.0%
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 Harney County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
97722 99 28 $78,750 $78,593
97710 80 39 $47,344 $54,887
97720 4,397 1,939 $49,170 $60,000
97721 141 59 $76,250 $91,559
97732 167 66 $43,750 $46,805
97736 93 20 $0 $120,090
97738 2,236 847 $89,071 $119,604
97758 91 37 $21,875 $49,954
97904 155 76 $53,750 $81,458

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FAQs about Harney County demographics 

What is the total population of Harney County?

Harney County has a total population of 7,499 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Harney County?

The gender ratio in Harney County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (3,789 residents)
  • 49.5% females (3,710 residents)

What is the median age in Harney County?

The median age in Harney County is 45.9.

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

The age distribution in Harney County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.2% (1,136 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (845 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.6% (1,620 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (1,920 residents)
  • Over 65: 26.4% (1,978 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Harney County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Harney County is as follows:
  • White: 86.7% (6,503 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.9% (140 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.8% (135 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (15 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.5% (35 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.6% (642 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (29 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97% of the population in Harney County.

How many housing units are there in Harney County?

There are 3,732 housing units in Harney 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 Harney County and what is the average household size?

Harney County has a total of 3,129 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Harney County?

Harney County has a median household income of $55,208, representing a +14.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.3% in Harney County, with a workforce of 3,239 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.3% (2,278 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.7% (961 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19.1% (618 residents)
  • Private companies: 52.5% (1,701 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 25.2% (818 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.2% (102 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