Rusk County, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
52,842
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,658/yr
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,311
0.2% year-over-year change

Rusk County population

How many people live in Rusk County

Rusk County is home to 52,842 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.9% of Rusk County locals are male, and 47.1% are female.

Total population
52,842
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.9%
27,957
Female
47.1%
24,885
Value Percent YoY change
Male 27,957 52.9% 0.0%
Female 24,885 47.1% 0.9%
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 Rusk County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 12.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.7% of the population, while another 24.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
12.8%
25 to 44
26.7%
45 to 64
24.7%
Over 65
17.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,701 18.4% -1.0%
15 to 24 6,765 12.8% 3.1%
25 to 44 14,117 26.7% 0.3%
45 to 64 13,034 24.7% -1.1%
Over 65 9,225 17.5% 2.4%
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 Rusk County, 92.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 65.6% of locals are Caucasian, 13.2% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 17.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.4%
Non-citizens
3.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 49,089 92.9% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,793 3.4% 5.7%
Non-citizens 1,960 3.7% -7.9%
Racial breakdown
White
65.6%
Black or African American
13.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
17.4%
Other
3.2%
Value Percent
White 34,666 65.6%
Black or African American 6,976 13.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 68 0.1%
Asian 195 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 48 0.1%
Two or more races 9,194 17.4%
Other 1,695 3.2%

Households in Rusk County

A peek inside Rusk County households

Rusk County has 18,027 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 72.9% are families, while the remaining 27.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
18,027
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,883
Family households
13,144
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,883 27.1% -0.6%
Family households 13,144 72.9% 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 Rusk County

The housing landscape of Rusk County

Rusk County's housing consists of 21,311 units, with 73.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.7% 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 18.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,311
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 15,655 73.5%
1 unit, attached 152 0.7%
2 units 409 1.9%
3 or 4 units 340 1.6%
5 to 9 units 358 1.7%
10 to 19 units 166 0.8%
20 to 49 units 90 0.4%
50 or more units 22 0.1%
Mobile home 4,020 18.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 99 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
144
111.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rusk County

In Rusk County, the median construction year is 1980. About 6.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,305 6.1% -1.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,303 6.1% -5.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,239 10.5% -9.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,531 7.2% -7.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,127 19.4% 9.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,111 14.6% -1.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,201 10.3% 1.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,342 15.7% 1.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,008 9.4% 1.8%
Built in 2020 or later 144 0.7% 111.8%
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.

Rusk County occupancy rates

Out of the 18,027 occupied housing units in Rusk County, 78.8% are owner-occupied, while 21.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
18,027
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,814
Owner occupied
14,213
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,814 21.2% 6.2%
Owner occupied 14,213 78.8% -1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
15.4%
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.

Rusk County housing costs

Housing costs in Rusk County come to a median of $844 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,015.

Median housing costs per month
$844/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 Rusk County
$1,015/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 Rusk County

Rusk County education at a glance

About 43.4% of the population in Rusk County went to high school, while 25.5% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 11.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,142 5.2% 5.2%
High school diploma 17,737 43.4% -0.3%
College diploma 10,448 25.5% 1.5%
Associate degree 3,729 9.1% -0.6%
Bachelor's degree 4,695 11.5% 4.2%
Graduate degree 2,161 5.3% -6.0%
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 Rusk County

How much people earn in Rusk County

The average annual household income in Rusk County was $94,041 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,658, reflecting a +1.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rusk County
$94,041/year
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rusk County
$68,658/year
1.7% year-over-year change

Rusk County income by age

In Rusk County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $74,956. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,725 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $84,000, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,040 in earnings. Overall, 85.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $84,000 4.8%
25 - 44 $74,956 -2.4%
45 - 64 $76,725 -1.0%
Over 65 $48,040 4.2%
Above poverty level
40,592
Below poverty level
6,790
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 40,592 85.7% 0.5%
Below poverty level 6,790 14.3% 1.2%

Employment in Rusk County

Workforce and job types in Rusk County

The job market in Rusk County is powered by 21,474 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.2% run their own businesses, 66.6% are employed by private companies, and 14.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
21,474
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
14,667
Blue collar
6,807
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 14,667 68.3% -1.4%
Blue collar 6,807 31.7% 3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
12.2%
Private companies
66.6%
Governmental workers
14.4%
Not for profit companies
6.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,628 12.2% -2.3%
Private companies 14,303 66.6% 1.3%
Governmental workers 3,088 14.4% -0.6%
Not for profit companies 1,455 6.8% -5.5%
Unemployment rate
4.5%
19.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rusk County stands at 4.5%, 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 Rusk County

How people get around in Rusk County

Commuting methods vary: 92.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% 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 19,567 92.5% -0.7%
Bus or trolleybus 14 0.1% -50.0%
Subway or elevated 24 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 14 0.1% 40.0%
Bicycle 22 0.1% -60.0%
Walk 233 1.1% 24.6%
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 Rusk County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
75681 2,248 1,021 $48,079 $70,530
75682 678 245 $71,477 $77,544
75684 8,040 2,432 $57,273 $86,652
75603 6,061 2,606 $65,212 $87,454
75641 83 43 $0 $69,879
75652 15,290 4,277 $69,250 $128,971
75654 12,164 4,575 $69,848 $81,315
75662 25,034 8,515 $70,096 $86,848
75667 1,413 507 $61,065 $79,032
75669 1,034 287 $88,190 $97,645

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FAQs about Rusk County demographics 

What is the total population of Rusk County?

Rusk County has a total population of 52,842 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Rusk County?

The gender ratio in Rusk County is as follows:
  • 52.9% males (27,957 residents)
  • 47.1% females (24,885 residents)

What is the median age in Rusk County?

The median age in Rusk County is 39.1.

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

The age distribution in Rusk County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (9,701 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.8% (6,765 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.7% (14,117 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.7% (13,034 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.5% (9,225 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rusk County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rusk County is as follows:
  • White: 65.6% (34,666 residents)
  • Black or African American: 13.2% (6,976 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (68 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (195 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (48 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 17.4% (9,194 residents)
  • Other: 3.2% (1,695 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.9% of the population in Rusk County.

How many housing units are there in Rusk County?

There are 21,311 housing units in Rusk County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Rusk County has a total of 18,027 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rusk County?

Rusk County has a median household income of $68,658, representing a +1.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.5% in Rusk County, with a workforce of 21,474 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.3% (14,667 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.7% (6,807 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.2% (2,628 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.6% (14,303 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.4% (3,088 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.8% (1,455 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