Hernando County, Florida Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Hernando County is located in Florida with a total population of 201,512. It is the 27th most populous county out of 67 in Florida.

Age Demographics

The median age in Hernando County is 48.1 years. This is 13% higher than the state median of 42.6 years. 12.0% 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 Hernando County is $63,193. This is 12% lower than the state median of $71,711. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 20% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.0%. This is 5% lower than the state poverty rate of 12.6%. The unemployment rate is 5.8%. This is 21% higher than the state rate of 4.8%. The median home value is $240,700. Housing costs are 26% lower than the state median of $325,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x. 81.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 22% higher than the state average of 67.3%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Hernando County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 73.4% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 16.1%. The Black or African American population (4.7%) is well below the state average of 14.8%. The Asian population (1.4%) is well below the state average of 2.8%.

Education

20.4% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 38% lower than the state rate of 33.2%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 90.1%.