Molalla, OR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,186
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$89,318/yr
6.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,849
-3.0% year-over-year change

Molalla population

How many people live in Molalla

Molalla is home to 10,186 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.4% of Molalla locals are male, and 52.6% are female.

Total population
10,186
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.4%
4,830
Female
52.6%
5,356
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,830 47.4% 0.2%
Female 5,356 52.6% 0.1%
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 Molalla is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.1% are children under 15, then 18.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 38.6% of the population, while another 16.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 9.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.1%
15 to 24
18.9%
25 to 44
38.6%
45 to 64
16.1%
Over 65
9.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,739 17.1% -27.8%
15 to 24 1,922 18.9% 73.2%
25 to 44 3,937 38.6% 6.3%
45 to 64 1,637 16.1% -18.6%
Over 65 951 9.3% 1.6%
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 Molalla, 97.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 11.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,904 97.2% 1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 176 1.7% -0.6%
Non-citizens 106 1% -53.3%
Racial breakdown
White
84.7%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.9%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 8,628 84.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 29 0.3%
Asian 130 1.3%
Two or more races 1,214 11.9%
Other 185 1.8%

Households in Molalla

A peek inside Molalla households

Molalla has 3,642 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.2% are families, while the remaining 31.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,642
-2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,160
Family households
2,482
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,160 31.8% -6.5%
Family households 2,482 68.2% -0.2%
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 Molalla

The housing landscape of Molalla

Molalla's housing consists of 3,849 units, with 64.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.1% 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% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,849
-3.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,496 64.8%
1 unit, attached 42 1.1%
2 units 57 1.5%
3 or 4 units 366 9.5%
5 to 9 units 464 12.1%
10 to 19 units 137 3.6%
20 to 49 units 71 1.8%
50 or more units 61 1.6%
Mobile home 155 4%
Homes built since 2020
16
45.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Molalla

In Molalla, the median construction year is 1997. About 8.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 30.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 324 8.4% 214.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 162 4.2% -26.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 113 2.9% -8.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 123 3.2% -11.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 451 11.7% -20.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 290 7.5% -38.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 688 17.9% -10.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,183 30.7% 6.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 499 13% 8.5%
Built in 2020 or later 16 0.4% 45.5%
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.

Molalla occupancy rates

Out of the 3,642 occupied housing units in Molalla, 54.8% are owner-occupied, while 45.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,642
-2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,645
Owner occupied
1,997
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,645 45.2% 24.9%
Owner occupied 1,997 54.8% -17.1%
Unoccupied housing units
5.4%
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.

Molalla housing costs

Housing costs in Molalla come to a median of $1,726 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,654.

Median housing costs per month
$1,726/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 Molalla
$1,654/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 Molalla

Molalla education at a glance

About 49.4% of the population in Molalla went to high school, while 24.5% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 12.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 82 1.1% -45.7%
High school diploma 3,791 49.4% 25.3%
College diploma 1,880 24.5% -7.1%
Associate degree 697 9.1% -31.7%
Bachelor's degree 962 12.5% 3.0%
Graduate degree 264 3.4% 0.4%
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 Molalla

How much people earn in Molalla

The average annual household income in Molalla was $106,443 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $89,318, reflecting a +6.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Molalla
$106,443/year
7.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Molalla
$89,318/year
6.3% year-over-year change

Molalla income by age

In Molalla, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $93,829. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,512 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $88,261, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $59,167 in earnings. Overall, 95.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $88,261 50.0%
25 - 44 $93,829 -10.9%
45 - 64 $86,512 8.9%
Over 65 $59,167 48.9%
Above poverty level
9,600
Below poverty level
428
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,600 95.7% 3.2%
Below poverty level 428 4.3% -40.1%

Average renter income in Molalla

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Molalla, their median household income was $55,758 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$55,758
Rent-to-income ratio
35.6%
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 Molalla

Workforce and job types in Molalla

The job market in Molalla is powered by 5,411 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 69.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,411
0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
3,675
Blue collar
1,736
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,675 67.9% 2.5%
Blue collar 1,736 32.1% -4.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
69.7%
Governmental workers
12.6%
Not for profit companies
9.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 455 8.4% -27.0%
Private companies 3,773 69.7% -1.7%
Governmental workers 679 12.6% -0.1%
Not for profit companies 504 9.3% 89.5%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
3.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Molalla stands at 4.7%, 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 Molalla

How people get around in Molalla

Commuting methods vary: 83.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% 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 4,475 83.3% 0.9%
Motorcycle 8 0.2% -55.6%
Walk 170 3.2% 11.8%
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 Molalla by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
97038 16,440 5,882 $89,564 $111,018

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FAQs about Molalla demographics 

What is the total population of Molalla?

Molalla has a total population of 10,186 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 Molalla?

The gender ratio in Molalla is as follows:
  • 47.4% males (4,830 residents)
  • 52.6% females (5,356 residents)

What is the median age in Molalla?

The median age in Molalla is 32.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Molalla?

The age distribution in Molalla is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.1% (1,739 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.9% (1,922 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 38.6% (3,937 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 16.1% (1,637 residents)
  • Over 65: 9.3% (951 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Molalla?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Molalla is as follows:
  • White: 84.7% (8,628 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (29 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (130 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.9% (1,214 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (185 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.2% of the population in Molalla.

How many housing units are there in Molalla?

There are 3,849 housing units in Molalla, reflecting a -3.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Molalla has a total of 3,642 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Molalla?

Molalla has a median household income of $89,318, representing a +6.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.3% in Molalla, with a workforce of 5,411 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.9% (3,675 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.1% (1,736 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (455 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.7% (3,773 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.6% (679 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.3% (504 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