Amherst County, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
31,485
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,724/yr
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,364
0.4% year-over-year change

Amherst County population

How many people live in Amherst County

Amherst County is home to 31,485 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Amherst County locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
31,485
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
15,227
Female
51.6%
16,258
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,227 48.4% 1.9%
Female 16,258 51.6% -1.1%
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 Amherst County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.6% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.7% of the population, while another 26.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.6%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
22.7%
45 to 64
26.7%
Over 65
21.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,231 16.6% 0.3%
15 to 24 3,848 12.2% 0.6%
25 to 44 7,136 22.7% -0.8%
45 to 64 8,411 26.7% -0.3%
Over 65 6,859 21.8% 2.2%
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 Amherst County, 97.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.2% of locals are Caucasian, 17% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.5%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 30,758 97.7% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 477 1.5% -2.6%
Non-citizens 250 0.8% 35.9%
Racial breakdown
White
74.2%
Black or African American
17%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6.3%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 23,348 74.2%
Black or African American 5,358 17%
American Indian and Alaska Native 67 0.2%
Asian 217 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 18 0.1%
Two or more races 1,973 6.3%
Other 504 1.6%

Households in Amherst County

A peek inside Amherst County households

Amherst County has 12,694 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.3% are families, while the remaining 36.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,694
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,662
Family households
8,032
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,662 36.7% 2.1%
Family households 8,032 63.3% -1.2%
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 Amherst County

The housing landscape of Amherst County

Amherst County's housing consists of 14,364 units, with 77.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 11.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,364
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,190 77.9%
1 unit, attached 290 2%
2 units 347 2.4%
3 or 4 units 532 3.7%
5 to 9 units 216 1.5%
10 to 19 units 47 0.3%
20 to 49 units 24 0.2%
50 or more units 50 0.4%
Mobile home 1,647 11.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 21 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
86
75.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Amherst County

In Amherst County, the median construction year is 1978. About 8.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,235 8.6% 4.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 725 5% 10.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,276 8.9% -8.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,791 12.5% -6.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,571 17.9% -4.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,909 13.3% 1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,232 15.5% 5.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,810 12.6% 6.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 729 5.1% 1.8%
Built in 2020 or later 86 0.6% 75.5%
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.

Amherst County occupancy rates

Out of the 12,694 occupied housing units in Amherst County, 80.8% are owner-occupied, while 19.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,694
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,432
Owner occupied
10,262
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,432 19.2% -11.3%
Owner occupied 10,262 80.8% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
11.6%
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.

Amherst County housing costs

Housing costs in Amherst County come to a median of $897 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $871.

Median housing costs per month
$897/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 Amherst County
$871/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 Amherst County

Amherst County education at a glance

About 44.1% of the population in Amherst County went to high school, while 19.8% pursued college studies. Another 9.4% earned an associate degree and 14.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 918 3.6% -11.9%
High school diploma 11,103 44.1% -0.8%
College diploma 4,982 19.8% -2.2%
Associate degree 2,356 9.4% -1.1%
Bachelor's degree 3,748 14.9% 11.5%
Graduate degree 2,082 8.3% 0.9%
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 Amherst County

How much people earn in Amherst County

The average annual household income in Amherst County was $86,902 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,724, reflecting a +2.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Amherst County
$86,902/year
-1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Amherst County
$68,724/year
2.1% year-over-year change

Amherst County income by age

In Amherst County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,938. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $82,818 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $71,154, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,557 in earnings. Overall, 89.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $71,154 30.9%
25 - 44 $80,938 2.1%
45 - 64 $82,818 6.9%
Over 65 $47,557 -6.0%
Above poverty level
27,115
Below poverty level
3,264
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 27,115 89.3% 0.4%
Below poverty level 3,264 10.7% -0.1%

Employment in Amherst County

Workforce and job types in Amherst County

The job market in Amherst County is powered by 14,543 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 62.3% are employed by private companies, and 18% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,543
-2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
11,136
Blue collar
3,407
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,136 76.6% 2.4%
Blue collar 3,407 23.4% -15.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
62.3%
Governmental workers
18%
Not for profit companies
10.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,290 8.9% -7.3%
Private companies 9,058 62.3% -2.9%
Governmental workers 2,610 18% -0.6%
Not for profit companies 1,585 10.9% 1.7%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
19.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Amherst County stands at 4.6%, 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 Amherst County

How people get around in Amherst County

In Amherst County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
-5.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,465 87% -3.4%
Taxicab 8 0.1% 60.0%
Bus or trolleybus 26 0.2% 0.0%
Walk 198 1.4% -4.3%
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 Amherst County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
24572 15,744 6,762 $62,030 $77,274
24574 3,666 1,408 $69,133 $91,456
24483 475 252 $77,500 $93,219
22967 2,413 816 $87,337 $95,730
24595 630 79 $92,850 $69,208
24521 10,599 4,136 $73,571 $101,283
24526 1,494 633 $85,729 $93,799
24553 1,610 776 $50,385 $66,363

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FAQs about Amherst County demographics 

What is the total population of Amherst County?

Amherst County has a total population of 31,485 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Amherst County?

The gender ratio in Amherst County is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (15,227 residents)
  • 51.6% females (16,258 residents)

What is the median age in Amherst County?

The median age in Amherst County is 43.4.

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

The age distribution in Amherst County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.6% (5,231 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (3,848 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.7% (7,136 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.7% (8,411 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.8% (6,859 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Amherst County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Amherst County is as follows:
  • White: 74.2% (23,348 residents)
  • Black or African American: 17% (5,358 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (67 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (217 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (18 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.3% (1,973 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (504 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.7% of the population in Amherst County.

How many housing units are there in Amherst County?

There are 14,364 housing units in Amherst 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 Amherst County and what is the average household size?

Amherst County has a total of 12,694 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Amherst County?

Amherst County has a median household income of $68,724, representing a +2.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.4% in Amherst County, with a workforce of 14,543 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.6% (11,136 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.4% (3,407 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (1,290 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.3% (9,058 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18% (2,610 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.9% (1,585 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