Memphis, TN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
618,980
-1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,736/yr
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
289,887
-0.8% year-over-year change

Memphis population

How many people live in Memphis

Memphis is home to 618,980 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.4% of Memphis locals are male, and 52.6% are female.

Total population
618,980
-1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.4%
293,531
Female
52.6%
325,449
Value Percent YoY change
Male 293,531 47.4% -1.8%
Female 325,449 52.6% -1.4%
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 Memphis is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.2% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.8% of the population, while another 22.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.2%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
28.8%
45 to 64
22.1%
Over 65
14.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 131,367 21.2% -1.6%
15 to 24 83,223 13.4% -0.3%
25 to 44 178,519 28.8% -1.1%
45 to 64 136,603 22.1% -4.2%
Over 65 89,268 14.4% 0.4%
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 Memphis, 91.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 23.8% of locals are Caucasian, 62.9% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.8%
Non-citizens
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 567,139 91.6% -1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 17,319 2.8% -7.0%
Non-citizens 34,522 5.6% 6.8%
Racial breakdown
White
23.8%
Black or African American
62.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
5.5%
Other
5.5%
Value Percent
White 147,426 23.8%
Black or African American 389,448 62.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,201 0.5%
Asian 10,540 1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 753 0.1%
Two or more races 33,801 5.5%
Other 33,811 5.5%

Households in Memphis

A peek inside Memphis households

Memphis has 253,120 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.6% are families, while the remaining 45.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
253,120
-0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
114,802
Family households
138,318
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 114,802 45.4% -0.4%
Family households 138,318 54.6% -0.7%
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 Memphis

The housing landscape of Memphis

Memphis's housing consists of 289,887 units, with 59.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.1% 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 1.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
289,887
-0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 172,583 59.5%
1 unit, attached 14,800 5.1%
2 units 6,613 2.3%
3 or 4 units 18,545 6.4%
5 to 9 units 28,444 9.8%
10 to 19 units 20,194 7%
20 to 49 units 7,014 2.4%
50 or more units 18,323 6.3%
Mobile home 3,213 1.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 158 0%
Homes built since 2020
2,197
50.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Memphis

In Memphis, the median construction year is 1970. About 7.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 22,358 7.7% -0.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 22,354 7.7% -1.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 57,758 19.9% -1.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 43,184 14.9% 1.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 48,604 16.8% -3.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 36,060 12.4% -0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 26,205 9% -8.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 20,039 6.9% 5.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 11,128 3.8% 6.3%
Built in 2020 or later 2,197 0.8% 50.0%
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.

Memphis occupancy rates

Out of the 253,120 occupied housing units in Memphis, 44.9% are owner-occupied, while 55.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
253,120
-0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
139,512
Owner occupied
113,608
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 139,512 55.1% 1.5%
Owner occupied 113,608 44.9% -3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
12.7%
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.

Memphis housing costs

Housing costs in Memphis come to a median of $1,130 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,181.

Median housing costs per month
$1,130/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 Memphis
$1,181/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 Memphis

Memphis education at a glance

About 40.4% of the population in Memphis went to high school, while 22.8% pursued college studies. Another 6% earned an associate degree and 16.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 20,991 4.5% 0.9%
High school diploma 187,095 40.4% -1.4%
College diploma 105,689 22.8% -4.5%
Associate degree 28,009 6% 2.9%
Bachelor's degree 74,426 16.1% -2.1%
Graduate degree 46,555 10.1% -1.4%
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 Memphis

How much people earn in Memphis

The average annual household income in Memphis was $78,517 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,736, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Memphis
$78,517/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Memphis
$51,736/year
1.0% year-over-year change

Memphis income by age

In Memphis, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,332. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $60,554 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,832, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,532 in earnings. Overall, 77% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,832 -0.8%
25 - 44 $53,332 1.4%
45 - 64 $60,554 3.0%
Over 65 $45,532 1.1%
Above poverty level
459,401
Below poverty level
137,126
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 459,401 77% -2.3%
Below poverty level 137,126 23% 1.1%

Average renter income in Memphis

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Memphis, their median household income was $35,961 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$35,961
Rent-to-income ratio
39.4%
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 Memphis

Workforce and job types in Memphis

The job market in Memphis is powered by 279,732 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.9% run their own businesses, 70.1% are employed by private companies, and 13.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
279,732
-1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
200,355
Blue collar
79,377
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 200,355 71.6% -2.1%
Blue collar 79,377 28.4% -1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7.9%
Private companies
70.1%
Governmental workers
13.1%
Not for profit companies
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 22,174 7.9% 0.7%
Private companies 196,034 70.1% -2.9%
Governmental workers 36,549 13.1% 3.3%
Not for profit companies 24,975 8.9% -3.2%
Unemployment rate
8.3%
-1.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Memphis stands at 8.3%, 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 Memphis

How people get around in Memphis

Commuting methods vary: 86.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% 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 237,380 86.6% -3.2%
Taxicab 786 0.3% 26.4%
Bus or trolleybus 2,076 0.8% -2.3%
Ferryboat 73 0% -24.7%
Motorcycle 44 0% -10.2%
Bicycle 329 0.1% -29.9%
Walk 4,752 1.7% 1.2%
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 Memphis by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
38016 44,136 18,517 $76,569 $92,296
38018 38,527 14,575 $90,004 $110,330
38103 14,534 8,372 $76,278 $125,340
38104 22,634 12,863 $58,117 $93,467
38105 5,534 3,242 $34,015 $48,733
38106 20,962 8,640 $30,232 $44,527
38107 13,912 6,925 $35,265 $54,685
38108 17,562 6,508 $36,257 $50,699
38109 42,452 16,616 $37,496 $53,952
38111 41,934 17,486 $52,589 $89,808

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FAQs about Memphis demographics 

What is the total population of Memphis?

Memphis has a total population of 618,980 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 Memphis?

The gender ratio in Memphis is as follows:
  • 47.4% males (293,531 residents)
  • 52.6% females (325,449 residents)

What is the median age in Memphis?

The median age in Memphis is 34.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Memphis?

The age distribution in Memphis is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.2% (131,367 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (83,223 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.8% (178,519 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.1% (136,603 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.4% (89,268 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Memphis?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Memphis is as follows:
  • White: 23.8% (147,426 residents)
  • Black or African American: 62.9% (389,448 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (3,201 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (10,540 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (753 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.5% (33,801 residents)
  • Other: 5.5% (33,811 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.6% of the population in Memphis.

How many housing units are there in Memphis?

There are 289,887 housing units in Memphis, reflecting a -0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Memphis has a total of 253,120 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Memphis?

Memphis has a median household income of $51,736, representing a +1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.7% in Memphis, with a workforce of 279,732 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.6% (200,355 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.4% (79,377 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.9% (22,174 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.1% (196,034 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.1% (36,549 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.9% (24,975 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