Newton County, Mississippi Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Newton County is located in Mississippi with a total population of 21,151. It is the 44th most populous county out of 82 in Mississippi.

Age Demographics

The median age in Newton County is 37.8 years. This is 2% lower than the state median of 38.4 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Newton County is $50,426. This is 8% lower than the state median of $54,915. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 36% lower. The poverty rate stands at 22.0%. This is 15% higher than the state poverty rate of 19.1%. With more than one in five residents living below the poverty line, economic hardship is a significant challenge for the community. The unemployment rate is 3.5%. This is 41% lower than the state rate of 6.0%. The median home value is $102,700. Housing costs are 36% lower than the state median of $161,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.0x, Newton County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 78.9% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 14% higher than the state average of 69.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Newton County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 58.8% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 31.7%. The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 1.0%.

Education

17.5% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 27% lower than the state rate of 24.2%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 85.9%.