Lafayette County, MS
Economic Snapshot 2025
A Thriving & Growing Community
Lafayette County continues to stand out in Mississippi for its dynamic economic indicators, robust growth in home values, and a young, energetic workforce. Below are the highlights positioning the county for a prosperous future.
The county is home to
(projecting modest growth from
~ 56,900 in 2023)
Data USA+2mississippi-demographics.com+2
Population & Demographics
- Median age: ~ 30.9 years — one of the youngest county averages in the region Data USA+1
- Racial/ethnic breakdown: ~ 68–69 % White (non-Hispanic), ~ 23 % Black, ~ 3–4 % Hispanic/other groups mississippi-demographics.com+2Data USA+2
- Educational infrastructure is strong, anchored by the University of Mississippi and local colleges, fueling talent inflow and retention.
Income, Wealth & Housing
- Median household income (2023): $64,334 — a notable increase year over year Data USA+2Census Data+2
- Per capita income: ~$44,262 World Population Review
- Homeownership: ~ 63.2 % of housing units are owner-occupied Data USA+1
- Median property value (2023): $260,500 — up ~ 7.3 % from prior year, reflecting real estate strength Data USA+2mississippi-demographics.com+2
- The upward trend in property values supports both homeowner equity growth and investor interest.
Lafayette County’s real GDP (2023):
illustrating consistent expansion
over recent years FRED
Population & Demographics
- From 2020 to 2023, the county’s GDP rose from ~$2,103,940 to ~$2,364,876 (in chained terms), underscoring positive momentum FRED
- Key sectors:
• Educational Services is among the largest employers (reflecting the presence of the University) Data USA
• Health Care & Social Assistance and Retail Trade also employ significant shares of the workforce Data USA
• Forestry & forest products contribute meaningfully: in 2022, forestry activities generated ~ 303 jobs and ~$8.99 million in income; plus ~$31.38 million in total output MSU Extension - Economic development is supported by institutions such as the Oxford-Lafayette Economic Development Foundation, North Mississippi Enterprise Initiative, and Three Rivers Planning & Development District Lafayette County
Labor, Employment & Commute
- Total employed workforce (2023): ~ 25,600 jobs held by residents Data USA
- Most common occupations: Sales & related; Educational instruction & library; Office & administrative support Data USA
- Average commute time: 22.3 minutes, shorter than many U.S. benchmarks and helping maintain quality of life Data USA
- Mode of transport: majority drive alone (~81 %) with a modest share working from home (~6.6 %) or carpooling (~7 %) Data USA
Strengths & Positive Trends
- Young, growing population provides a vital labor base and potential for innovation and adaptability.
- Real estate and home equity growth are strong, offering long-term wealth-building opportunities for residents.
- Diverse economic base with education, health care, retail, forestry, and increasing business formation.
- Relatively low unemployment ensures many residents are active in the economy.
- Strategic institutions and economic development partnerships strengthen capacity to attract business, support startups, and expand infrastructure.
Why Lafayette County Is “Open for Opportunity”
Lafayette County in 2025 is not just holding steady — it’s moving forward. Its blend of institutional strength, demographic vitality, and economic diversity makes it a compelling location for innovation, investment, and community growth. For entrepreneurs, employers, and residents alike, the county presents a locale where economic promise is backed by tangible data and infrastructure.