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

Total population
31,954
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,519/yr
9.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,716
0.3% year-over-year change

Malheur County population

How many people live in Malheur County

Malheur County is home to 31,954 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 54.9% of Malheur County locals are male, and 45.1% are female.

Total population
31,954
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
54.9%
17,536
Female
45.1%
14,418
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,536 54.9% 0.9%
Female 14,418 45.1% 0.7%
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 Malheur County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 21% are children under 15, then 13.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.1% of the population, while another 22.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
21%
15 to 24
13.5%
25 to 44
26.1%
45 to 64
22.4%
Over 65
17.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,693 21% 0.6%
15 to 24 4,316 13.5% -0.5%
25 to 44 8,326 26.1% 1.7%
45 to 64 7,147 22.4% 0.5%
Over 65 5,472 17.1% 1.2%
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 Malheur County, 91.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.2% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. Another 2.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 19.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.2%
Non-citizens
5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 29,348 91.8% 1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,009 3.2% -11.1%
Non-citizens 1,597 5% 1.3%
Racial breakdown
White
69.2%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.1%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
19.4%
Other
7.1%
Value Percent
White 22,103 69.2%
Black or African American 321 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 667 2.1%
Asian 380 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 42 0.1%
Two or more races 6,183 19.4%
Other 2,258 7.1%

Households in Malheur County

A peek inside Malheur County households

Malheur County has 10,292 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.6% are families, while the remaining 34.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
10,292
2.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,539
Family households
6,753
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,539 34.4% -1.7%
Family households 6,753 65.6% 4.9%
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 Malheur County

The housing landscape of Malheur County

Malheur County's housing consists of 11,716 units, with 65.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% 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 14.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,716
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,629 65.1%
1 unit, attached 215 1.8%
2 units 465 4%
3 or 4 units 684 5.8%
5 to 9 units 255 2.2%
10 to 19 units 120 1%
20 to 49 units 486 4.2%
50 or more units 54 0.5%
Mobile home 1,734 14.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 74 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
103
212.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Malheur County

In Malheur County, the median construction year is 1974. About 11.5% 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. Then, 9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.2% 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 1,344 11.5% 4.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,202 10.3% 8.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,013 8.6% -11.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,305 11.1% -6.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,339 20% -9.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,352 11.5% 0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,627 13.9% 13.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,050 9% 3.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 381 3.2% 8.6%
Built in 2020 or later 103 0.9% 212.1%
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.

Malheur County occupancy rates

Out of the 10,292 occupied housing units in Malheur County, 63.2% are owner-occupied, while 36.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
10,292
2.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,785
Owner occupied
6,507
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,785 36.8% 3.0%
Owner occupied 6,507 63.2% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
12.2%
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.

Malheur County housing costs

Housing costs in Malheur County come to a median of $859 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $821.

Median housing costs per month
$859/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 Malheur County
$821/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 Malheur County

Malheur County education at a glance

About 43.4% of the population in Malheur County went to high school, while 25.1% pursued college studies. Another 10.2% earned an associate degree and 9.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,775 7.4% 11.8%
High school diploma 10,367 43.4% 0.3%
College diploma 5,997 25.1% -2.6%
Associate degree 2,428 10.2% 6.6%
Bachelor's degree 2,324 9.7% 0.7%
Graduate degree 972 4.1% -7.3%
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 Malheur County

How much people earn in Malheur County

The average annual household income in Malheur County was $72,398 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,519, reflecting a +9.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Malheur County
$72,398/year
6.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Malheur County
$54,519/year
9.2% year-over-year change

Malheur County income by age

In Malheur County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,869. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $68,958 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $28,235, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $41,587 in earnings. Overall, 82.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $28,235 -9.4%
25 - 44 $62,869 6.3%
45 - 64 $68,958 6.6%
Over 65 $41,587 3.6%
Above poverty level
23,098
Below poverty level
4,936
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 23,098 82.4% 0.5%
Below poverty level 4,936 17.6% -1.3%

Employment in Malheur County

Workforce and job types in Malheur County

The job market in Malheur County is powered by 11,850 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.4% run their own businesses, 64.6% are employed by private companies, and 20.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,850
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
7,890
Blue collar
3,960
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,890 66.6% 2.2%
Blue collar 3,960 33.4% -3.8%
Employer type
Self employees
9.4%
Private companies
64.6%
Governmental workers
20.1%
Not for profit companies
6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,110 9.4% -12.9%
Private companies 7,651 64.6% 1.1%
Governmental workers 2,381 20.1% 6.2%
Not for profit companies 708 6% -5.1%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
4.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Malheur County stands at 5.2%, 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 Malheur County

How people get around in Malheur County

Commuting methods vary: 86.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.4% 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 9,893 86.2% 1.1%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0% -33.3%
Ferryboat 19 0.2% 18.8%
Motorcycle 1 0% -85.7%
Bicycle 34 0.3% 112.5%
Walk 506 4.4% -18.9%
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 Malheur County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
97910 645 221 $73,317 $89,205
97913 5,520 1,744 $55,921 $74,889
97901 954 370 $45,500 $62,022
97903 48 30 $117,778 $92,240
97906 360 141 $47,054 $84,643
97907 821 329 $36,688 $61,843
97908 30 16 $0 $61,819
97909 24 13 $0 $0
97911 42 30 $27,500 $41,987
89421 330 146 $26,000 $56,121

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FAQs about Malheur County demographics 

What is the total population of Malheur County?

Malheur County has a total population of 31,954 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 Malheur County?

The gender ratio in Malheur County is as follows:
  • 54.9% males (17,536 residents)
  • 45.1% females (14,418 residents)

What is the median age in Malheur County?

The median age in Malheur County is 36.1.

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

The age distribution in Malheur County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21% (6,693 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.5% (4,316 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.1% (8,326 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.4% (7,147 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.1% (5,472 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Malheur County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Malheur County is as follows:
  • White: 69.2% (22,103 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (321 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.1% (667 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (380 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (42 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.4% (6,183 residents)
  • Other: 7.1% (2,258 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.8% of the population in Malheur County.

How many housing units are there in Malheur County?

There are 11,716 housing units in Malheur County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Malheur County has a total of 10,292 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Malheur County?

Malheur County has a median household income of $54,519, representing a +9.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.8% in Malheur County, with a workforce of 11,850 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66.6% (7,890 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33.4% (3,960 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.4% (1,110 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.6% (7,651 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.1% (2,381 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6% (708 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