Ouray County, Colorado Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Ouray County is located in Colorado with a total population of 5,024. It is the 52nd most populous county out of 64 in Colorado.

Age Demographics

The median age in Ouray County is 55.6 years. This is 48% higher than the state median of 37.5 years. Only 12.6% of residents are under 18, indicating fewer families with children. 12.1% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Ouray County is $84,556. This is 9% lower than the state median of $92,470. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 8% higher. The poverty rate stands at 5.0%. This is 46% lower than the state poverty rate of 9.4%. The unemployment rate is 3.2%. This is 29% lower than the state rate of 4.5%. The median home value is $670,100. Housing costs are 33% higher than the state median of $502,200. The home-value-to-income ratio of 7.9x suggests that housing affordability is a significant concern for many residents. 78.0% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 18% higher than the state average of 66.3%.

Race & Ethnicity

Ouray County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 89.3% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 4.7%. The Black or African American population (0.8%) is well below the state average of 3.8%. The Hispanic or Latino population (4.7%) is well below the state average of 22.2%. The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 3.2%.

Education

54.0% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 21% higher than the state rate of 44.7%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 97.3%. Notably, 19.5% of adults hold a graduate or professional degree, indicating a highly educated workforce.