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

Total population
25,538
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,012/yr
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,761
-0.1% year-over-year change

Russell County population

How many people live in Russell County

Russell County is home to 25,538 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Russell County locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
25,538
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
12,631
Female
50.5%
12,907
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,631 49.5% -0.6%
Female 12,907 50.5% -0.1%
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 Russell County is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.2% are children under 15, then 10.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.1% of the population, while another 28.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.2%
15 to 24
10.5%
25 to 44
22.1%
45 to 64
28.4%
Over 65
23.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,892 15.2% -0.1%
15 to 24 2,692 10.5% -0.8%
25 to 44 5,655 22.1% 0.0%
45 to 64 7,266 28.4% -2.9%
Over 65 6,033 23.6% 2.3%
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 Russell County, 98.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 96.8% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 1.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
0.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 25,217 98.7% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 202 0.8% 106.1%
Non-citizens 119 0.5% 65.3%
Racial breakdown
White
96.8%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
1.4%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 24,711 96.8%
Black or African American 287 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 35 0.1%
Asian 23 0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 59 0.2%
Two or more races 349 1.4%
Other 74 0.3%

Households in Russell County

A peek inside Russell County households

Russell County has 10,669 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67% are families, while the remaining 33% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
10,669
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,522
Family households
7,147
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,522 33% -1.3%
Family households 7,147 67% 3.5%
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 Russell County

The housing landscape of Russell County

Russell County's housing consists of 12,761 units, with 71.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1% 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 21.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,761
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,103 71.3%
1 unit, attached 122 1%
2 units 43 0.3%
3 or 4 units 278 2.2%
5 to 9 units 278 2.2%
10 to 19 units 69 0.5%
20 to 49 units 132 1%
50 or more units 8 0.1%
Mobile home 2,728 21.4%
Homes built since 2020
26
73.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Russell County

In Russell County, the median construction year is 1980. About 7.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,000 7.8% -3.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 589 4.6% 2.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 861 6.8% -19.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,161 9.1% -10.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,905 22.8% 12.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,036 16% -1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,758 13.8% -12.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,621 12.7% 10.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 804 6.3% 26.8%
Built in 2020 or later 26 0.2% 73.3%
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.

Russell County occupancy rates

Out of the 10,669 occupied housing units in Russell County, 76.3% are owner-occupied, while 23.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
10,669
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,528
Owner occupied
8,141
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,528 23.7% -0.2%
Owner occupied 8,141 76.3% 2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
16.4%
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.

Russell County housing costs

Housing costs in Russell County come to a median of $530 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $653.

Median housing costs per month
$530/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 Russell County
$653/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 Russell County

Russell County education at a glance

About 50.5% of the population in Russell County went to high school, while 18.8% pursued college studies. Another 11.2% earned an associate degree and 8.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,419 6.8% 4.6%
High school diploma 10,465 50.5% -0.1%
College diploma 3,895 18.8% -3.9%
Associate degree 2,314 11.2% 6.6%
Bachelor's degree 1,733 8.4% -11.4%
Graduate degree 895 4.3% 7.4%
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 Russell County

How much people earn in Russell County

The average annual household income in Russell County was $69,488 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,012, reflecting a +2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Russell County
$69,488/year
4.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Russell County
$50,012/year
2.0% year-over-year change

Russell County income by age

In Russell County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $74,757. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $53,000 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $85,696, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $35,643 in earnings. Overall, 83.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $85,696 28.7%
25 - 44 $74,757 3.8%
45 - 64 $53,000 0.8%
Over 65 $35,643 -1.3%
Above poverty level
20,880
Below poverty level
4,197
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 20,880 83.3% 1.6%
Below poverty level 4,197 16.7% -8.4%

Employment in Russell County

Workforce and job types in Russell County

The job market in Russell County is powered by 9,202 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.9% run their own businesses, 68.5% are employed by private companies, and 16.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,202
1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
6,160
Blue collar
3,042
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,160 66.9% -0.5%
Blue collar 3,042 33.1% 7.0%
Employer type
Self employees
6.9%
Private companies
68.5%
Governmental workers
16.8%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 637 6.9% -11.4%
Private companies 6,301 68.5% 8.0%
Governmental workers 1,550 16.8% -11.1%
Not for profit companies 714 7.8% -3.2%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
-16.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Russell County stands at 3.6%, 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 Russell County

How people get around in Russell County

Commuting methods vary: 93.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.3% 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 8,516 93.5% 2.7%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0% N/A
Walk 118 1.3% -26.7%
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 Russell County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
24649 2,135 842 $39,345 $72,285
24237 1,064 432 $33,095 $54,561
24260 5,318 2,115 $46,250 $64,450
24266 8,688 3,742 $59,875 $74,384
24224 5,273 2,146 $49,894 $72,201
24225 1,791 894 $27,826 $49,856
24280 784 240 $72,647 $57,010
24283 1,832 859 $40,402 $53,744
24609 6,923 2,923 $53,958 $73,493

Explore more communities

FAQs about Russell County demographics 

What is the total population of Russell County?

Russell County has a total population of 25,538 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 Russell County?

The gender ratio in Russell County is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (12,631 residents)
  • 50.5% females (12,907 residents)

What is the median age in Russell County?

The median age in Russell County is 46.7.

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

The age distribution in Russell County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.2% (3,892 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.5% (2,692 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.1% (5,655 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.4% (7,266 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.6% (6,033 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Russell County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Russell County is as follows:
  • White: 96.8% (24,711 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (287 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (35 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (23 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (59 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 1.4% (349 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (74 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.7% of the population in Russell County.

How many housing units are there in Russell County?

There are 12,761 housing units in Russell 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 Russell County and what is the average household size?

Russell County has a total of 10,669 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Russell County?

Russell County has a median household income of $50,012, representing a +2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in Russell County, with a workforce of 9,202 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66.9% (6,160 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33.1% (3,042 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.9% (637 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.5% (6,301 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.8% (1,550 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (714 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