South Gloucester County, Chesapeake Bay, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
13,898
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,559/yr
3.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,075
0.4% year-over-year change

South Gloucester County population

How many people live in South Gloucester County

South Gloucester County is home to 13,898 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of South Gloucester County locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
13,898
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
6,863
Female
50.6%
7,035
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,863 49.4% 1.0%
Female 7,035 50.6% 0.6%
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 South Gloucester County is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.2% are children under 15, then 9.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.3% of the population, while another 27.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.2%
15 to 24
9.8%
25 to 44
24.3%
45 to 64
27.8%
Over 65
20.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,389 17.2% -0.1%
15 to 24 1,362 9.8% 0.3%
25 to 44 3,380 24.3% 1.4%
45 to 64 3,867 27.8% -1.1%
Over 65 2,900 20.9% 3.8%
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 South Gloucester County, 96% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 81.3% of locals are Caucasian, 9.9% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.3%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 13,340 96% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 460 3.3% 18.6%
Non-citizens 98 0.7% 12.6%
Racial breakdown
White
81.3%
Black or African American
9.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 11,296 81.3%
Black or African American 1,373 9.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 25 0.2%
Asian 124 0.9%
Two or more races 969 7%
Other 109 0.8%

Households in South Gloucester County

A peek inside South Gloucester County households

South Gloucester County has 5,372 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.5% are families, while the remaining 31.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,372
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,692
Family households
3,679
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,692 31.5% 1.9%
Family households 3,679 68.5% 0.3%
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 South Gloucester County

The housing landscape of South Gloucester County

South Gloucester County's housing consists of 6,075 units, with 79.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.3% 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 8.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,075
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,821 79.3%
1 unit, attached 142 2.3%
2 units 143 2.4%
3 or 4 units 103 1.7%
5 to 9 units 254 4.2%
10 to 19 units 32 0.5%
20 to 49 units 18 0.3%
50 or more units 28 0.5%
Mobile home 517 8.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 18 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
113
82.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Gloucester County

In South Gloucester County, the median construction year is 1984. About 7.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 479 7.9% -10.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 127 2.1% -24.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 319 5.2% -26.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 366 6% -3.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,063 17.5% 16.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,207 19.9% 3.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 802 13.2% -4.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,060 17.4% 0.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 539 8.9% 8.0%
Built in 2020 or later 113 1.9% 82.3%
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.

South Gloucester County occupancy rates

Out of the 5,372 occupied housing units in South Gloucester County, 77.9% are owner-occupied, while 22.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,372
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,187
Owner occupied
4,185
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,187 22.1% -0.7%
Owner occupied 4,185 77.9% 1.2%
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.

South Gloucester County housing costs

Housing costs in South Gloucester County come to a median of $1,233 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,098.

Median housing costs per month
$1,233/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 South Gloucester County
$1,098/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 South Gloucester County

South Gloucester County education at a glance

About 42.3% of the population in South Gloucester County went to high school, while 24.1% pursued college studies. Another 8.1% earned an associate degree and 15.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 192 1.7% -1.5%
High school diploma 4,679 42.3% 6.4%
College diploma 2,664 24.1% -3.8%
Associate degree 897 8.1% -3.4%
Bachelor's degree 1,673 15.1% -5.5%
Graduate degree 954 8.6% 5.7%
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 South Gloucester County

How much people earn in South Gloucester County

The average annual household income in South Gloucester County was $104,662 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,559, reflecting a +3.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Gloucester County
$104,662/year
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Gloucester County
$74,559/year
3.7% year-over-year change

South Gloucester County income by age

In South Gloucester County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $91,337. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,396 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $81,964, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $59,907 in earnings. Overall, 94.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $81,964 -1.3%
25 - 44 $91,337 11.7%
45 - 64 $71,396 -14.2%
Over 65 $59,907 5.9%
Above poverty level
12,936
Below poverty level
730
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,936 94.7% 2.7%
Below poverty level 730 5.3% -21.2%

Employment in South Gloucester County

Workforce and job types in South Gloucester County

74.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.5% run their own businesses, 63.8% are employed by private companies, and 19.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
4,758
Blue collar
1,645
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,758 74.3% -2.9%
Blue collar 1,645 25.7% -3.0%
Employer type
Self employees
11.5%
Private companies
63.8%
Governmental workers
19.5%
Not for profit companies
5.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 738 11.5% -1.3%
Private companies 4,084 63.8% -1.9%
Governmental workers 1,249 19.5% -4.2%
Not for profit companies 332 5.2% -12.4%

Transportation in South Gloucester County

How people get around in South Gloucester County

Commuting methods vary: 99.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.4% 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 5,723 99.1% -5.0%
Bus or trolleybus 9 0.2% 12.5%
Motorcycle 16 0.3% -11.1%
Walk 26 0.4% 23.8%
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.

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FAQs about South Gloucester County demographics 

What is the total population of South Gloucester County?

South Gloucester County has a total population of 13,898 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 South Gloucester County?

The gender ratio in South Gloucester County is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (6,863 residents)
  • 50.6% females (7,035 residents)

What is the median age in South Gloucester County?

The median age in South Gloucester County is 45.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Gloucester County?

The age distribution in South Gloucester County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.2% (2,389 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.8% (1,362 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.3% (3,380 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.8% (3,867 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.9% (2,900 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Gloucester County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Gloucester County is as follows:
  • White: 81.3% (11,296 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.9% (1,373 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (25 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (124 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7% (969 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (109 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96% of the population in South Gloucester County.

How many housing units are there in South Gloucester County?

There are 6,075 housing units in South Gloucester 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 South Gloucester County and what is the average household size?

South Gloucester County has a total of 5,372 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Gloucester County?

South Gloucester County has a median household income of $74,559, representing a +3.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for South Gloucester County?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.3% (4,758 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.7% (1,645 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.5% (738 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.8% (4,084 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.5% (1,249 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.2% (332 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