Fairfax, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
25,026
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$132,348/yr
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,313
-0.0% year-over-year change

Fairfax population

How many people live in Fairfax

Fairfax is home to 25,026 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Fairfax locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
25,026
2.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
12,317
Female
50.8%
12,709
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,317 49.2% 2.0%
Female 12,709 50.8% 2.5%
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 Fairfax is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.3% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.2% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.3%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
26.2%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
14.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,333 21.3% 7.3%
15 to 24 3,360 13.4% 2.6%
25 to 44 6,563 26.2% 2.5%
45 to 64 6,252 25% -1.3%
Over 65 3,518 14.1% 0.7%
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 Fairfax, 66.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 19.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 14.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 52.8% of locals are Caucasian, 6.3% are African American and 18.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
66.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
19.1%
Non-citizens
14.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,605 66.4% 0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,787 19.1% 6.5%
Non-citizens 3,634 14.5% 3.0%
Racial breakdown
White
52.8%
Black or African American
6.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
18.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.5%
Other
10.8%
Value Percent
White 13,215 52.8%
Black or African American 1,585 6.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 61 0.2%
Asian 4,597 18.4%
Two or more races 2,871 11.5%
Other 2,697 10.8%

Households in Fairfax

A peek inside Fairfax households

Fairfax has 9,155 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 63.1% are families, while the remaining 36.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,155
-0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,380
Family households
5,775
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,380 36.9% 3.6%
Family households 5,775 63.1% -2.1%
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 Fairfax

The housing landscape of Fairfax

Fairfax's housing consists of 9,313 units, with 54.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 17% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
9,313
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,061 54.3%
1 unit, attached 1,587 17%
2 units 71 0.8%
3 or 4 units 138 1.5%
5 to 9 units 238 2.6%
10 to 19 units 1,340 14.4%
20 to 49 units 209 2.2%
50 or more units 669 7.2%
Homes built since 2020
243
100.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fairfax

In Fairfax, the median construction year is 1967. About 0.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 31 0.3% -50.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 287 3.1% -1.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,581 27.7% -0.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,446 26.3% -5.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 820 8.8% -1.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 687 7.4% -11.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 740 8% 8.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 683 7.3% 11.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 795 8.5% 5.4%
Built in 2020 or later 243 2.6% 100.8%
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.

Fairfax occupancy rates

Out of the 9,155 occupied housing units in Fairfax, 69.9% are owner-occupied, while 30.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 1.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,155
-0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,756
Owner occupied
6,399
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,756 30.1% -1.9%
Owner occupied 6,399 69.9% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
1.7%
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.

Fairfax housing costs

Housing costs in Fairfax come to a median of $2,374 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,245.

Median housing costs per month
$2,374/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 Fairfax
$2,245/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 Fairfax

Fairfax education at a glance

About 18.7% of the population in Fairfax went to high school, while 13.6% pursued college studies. Another 5.3% earned an associate degree and 31.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 26.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 772 4.1% 11.7%
High school diploma 3,514 18.7% -1.6%
College diploma 2,550 13.6% -2.5%
Associate degree 995 5.3% 3.4%
Bachelor's degree 5,953 31.6% 2.4%
Graduate degree 5,032 26.7% 1.8%
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 Fairfax

How much people earn in Fairfax

The average annual household income in Fairfax was $178,337 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $132,348, reflecting a -0.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fairfax
$178,337/year
4.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fairfax
$132,348/year
-0.3% year-over-year change

Fairfax income by age

In Fairfax, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $140,313. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $183,597 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,547, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $100,893 in earnings. Overall, 91.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,547 2.8%
25 - 44 $140,313 -6.7%
45 - 64 $183,597 9.3%
Over 65 $100,893 1.9%
Above poverty level
21,811
Below poverty level
2,068
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 21,811 91.3% 3.9%
Below poverty level 2,068 8.7% -6.5%

Average renter income in Fairfax

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fairfax, their median household income was $68,235 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$68,235
Rent-to-income ratio
39.5%
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 Fairfax

Workforce and job types in Fairfax

The job market in Fairfax is powered by 13,260 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 90.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 9.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.3% run their own businesses, 65.1% are employed by private companies, and 19.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,260
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
12,042
Blue collar
1,218
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,042 90.8% 1.6%
Blue collar 1,218 9.2% 1.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8.3%
Private companies
65.1%
Governmental workers
19.4%
Not for profit companies
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,095 8.3% 2.0%
Private companies 8,628 65.1% 6.4%
Governmental workers 2,569 19.4% -6.8%
Not for profit companies 968 7.3% -12.9%
Unemployment rate
3.3%
-26.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fairfax stands at 3.3%, 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 Fairfax

How people get around in Fairfax

Commuting methods vary: 62.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% 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 8,223 62.8% -4.0%
Taxicab 8 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 334 2.6% 30.5%
Subway or elevated 176 1.4% N/A
Railroad 5 0% -72.2%
Motorcycle 12 0.1% -47.8%
Walk 385 2.9% 11.6%
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 Fairfax by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
22030 61,332 21,143 $139,831 $170,716
22031 37,276 14,825 $134,577 $172,343
22032 29,240 9,796 $178,394 $212,410
22033 39,526 15,840 $143,454 $171,534

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FAQs about Fairfax demographics 

What is the total population of Fairfax?

Fairfax has a total population of 25,026 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 +2.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fairfax?

The gender ratio in Fairfax is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (12,317 residents)
  • 50.8% females (12,709 residents)

What is the median age in Fairfax?

The median age in Fairfax is 36.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fairfax?

The age distribution in Fairfax is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.3% (5,333 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (3,360 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.2% (6,563 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (6,252 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.1% (3,518 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fairfax?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fairfax is as follows:
  • White: 52.8% (13,215 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.3% (1,585 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (61 residents)
  • Asian: 18.4% (4,597 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.5% (2,871 residents)
  • Other: 10.8% (2,697 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 66.4% of the population in Fairfax.

How many housing units are there in Fairfax?

There are 9,313 housing units in Fairfax, reflecting a -0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fairfax has a total of 9,155 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fairfax?

Fairfax has a median household income of $132,348, representing a -0.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.7% in Fairfax, with a workforce of 13,260 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 90.8% (12,042 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 9.2% (1,218 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.3% (1,095 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.1% (8,628 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.4% (2,569 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.3% (968 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