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

Total population
21,900
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$41,827/yr
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,851
-0.1% year-over-year change

Lee County population

How many people live in Lee County

Lee County is home to 21,900 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53.2% of Lee County locals are male, and 46.8% are female.

Total population
21,900
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53.2%
11,644
Female
46.8%
10,256
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,644 53.2% -0.6%
Female 10,256 46.8% -0.8%
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 Lee County is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.7% are children under 15, then 10% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 27.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.7%
15 to 24
10%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
27.5%
Over 65
23.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,227 14.7% -1.8%
15 to 24 2,179 10% 1.2%
25 to 44 5,408 24.7% -1.0%
45 to 64 6,022 27.5% -2.3%
Over 65 5,064 23.1% 1.8%
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 Lee County, 97.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.7% of locals are Caucasian, 4.3% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,413 97.8% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 339 1.6% 11.9%
Non-citizens 148 0.7% -19.6%
Racial breakdown
White
92.7%
Black or African American
4.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.4%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 20,294 92.7%
Black or African American 950 4.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 48 0.2%
Asian 40 0.2%
Two or more races 527 2.4%
Other 41 0.2%

Households in Lee County

A peek inside Lee County households

Lee County has 8,527 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.6% are families, while the remaining 36.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,527
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,101
Family households
5,426
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,101 36.4% 2.3%
Family households 5,426 63.6% 0.2%
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 Lee County

The housing landscape of Lee County

Lee County's housing consists of 10,851 units, with 73.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.4% 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 19.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,851
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,960 73.4%
1 unit, attached 45 0.4%
2 units 134 1.2%
3 or 4 units 334 3.1%
5 to 9 units 110 1%
10 to 19 units 91 0.8%
20 to 49 units 36 0.3%
50 or more units 4 0%
Mobile home 2,137 19.7%
Homes built since 2020
55
139.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lee County

In Lee County, the median construction year is 1977. About 10% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,091 10% 5.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,049 9.7% 9.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,179 10.9% 15.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 777 7.2% -12.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,907 17.6% 5.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,577 14.5% -7.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,585 14.6% -5.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,115 10.3% -8.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 516 4.8% -1.3%
Built in 2020 or later 55 0.5% 139.1%
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.

Lee County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,527 occupied housing units in Lee County, 73% are owner-occupied, while 27% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 21.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,527
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,301
Owner occupied
6,226
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,301 27% 4.4%
Owner occupied 6,226 73% -0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
21.4%
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.

Lee County housing costs

Housing costs in Lee County come to a median of $496 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $738.

Median housing costs per month
$496/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 Lee County
$738/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 Lee County

Lee County education at a glance

About 47.3% of the population in Lee County went to high school, while 22.3% pursued college studies. Another 9.7% earned an associate degree and 9.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,261 7% -3.4%
High school diploma 8,465 47.3% 0.8%
College diploma 3,989 22.3% -13.4%
Associate degree 1,734 9.7% 19.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,709 9.6% 4.2%
Graduate degree 746 4.2% 25.6%
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 Lee County

How much people earn in Lee County

The average annual household income in Lee County was $59,845 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 $41,827, reflecting a -1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lee County
$59,845/year
-1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lee County
$41,827/year
-1.1% year-over-year change

Lee County income by age

In Lee County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $45,142. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $48,385 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,893, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $36,426 in earnings. Overall, 71.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,893 -17.1%
25 - 44 $45,142 1.1%
45 - 64 $48,385 9.5%
Over 65 $36,426 -1.4%
Above poverty level
14,353
Below poverty level
5,820
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,353 71.2% -2.3%
Below poverty level 5,820 28.8% 4.0%

Employment in Lee County

Workforce and job types in Lee County

The job market in Lee County is powered by 6,738 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 60.2% are employed by private companies, and 21.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,738
-4.6% year-over-year change
White collar
4,737
Blue collar
2,001
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,737 70.3% -4.3%
Blue collar 2,001 29.7% -5.2%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
60.2%
Governmental workers
21.2%
Not for profit companies
9.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 617 9.2% -16.4%
Private companies 4,055 60.2% -2.3%
Governmental workers 1,426 21.2% -7.0%
Not for profit companies 640 9.5% 0.3%
Unemployment rate
9.5%
-1.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lee County stands at 9.5%, 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 Lee County

How people get around in Lee County

Commuting methods vary: 88.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.6% 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 5,688 88.2% -8.0%
Bus or trolleybus 26 0.4% 100.0%
Walk 41 0.6% 28.1%
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 Lee County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
24243 1,452 670 $52,308 $64,406
24244 5,600 2,082 $40,423 $53,543
24248 2,207 1,013 $78,281 $82,899
24263 5,830 2,463 $39,364 $57,222
24265 1,140 314 $42,727 $55,856
24219 10,450 3,703 $55,252 $69,976
24221 633 286 $47,788 $66,587
24277 5,839 1,946 $31,737 $44,413
24281 1,890 760 $46,806 $64,012
24282 1,181 373 $31,369 $40,991

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Lee County demographics 

What is the total population of Lee County?

Lee County has a total population of 21,900 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lee County?

The gender ratio in Lee County is as follows:
  • 53.2% males (11,644 residents)
  • 46.8% females (10,256 residents)

What is the median age in Lee County?

The median age in Lee County is 45.5.

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

The age distribution in Lee County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.7% (3,227 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10% (2,179 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (5,408 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.5% (6,022 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.1% (5,064 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lee County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lee County is as follows:
  • White: 92.7% (20,294 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.3% (950 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (48 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (40 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.4% (527 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (41 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.8% of the population in Lee County.

How many housing units are there in Lee County?

There are 10,851 housing units in Lee County, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lee County has a total of 8,527 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lee County?

Lee County has a median household income of $41,827, representing a -1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 90.5% in Lee County, with a workforce of 6,738 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.3% (4,737 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.7% (2,001 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (617 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.2% (4,055 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.2% (1,426 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.5% (640 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