Jay, FL
Population 706 · Florida
About Jay, FL
Jay is a small community located in Florida with a population of 706 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $36,964 per year, which is 51% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Jay features a median home value of $126,800, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Jay one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,008, 13% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 335 total housing units, 43% are owner-occupied (116 units) and 57% are renter-occupied (151 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Jay shows an unemployment rate of 12.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 33.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Jay have an average one-way commute time of 35.8 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
14.4% of Jay residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 1.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Jay, FL
Compared to national averages, Jay has a median household income of $36,964 (51% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $126,800, which is 48% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,008 is 13% below the US average of $1,163. Within Florida, Jay's income is 51% below the state average of $75,893, and home values are 64% below the state median of $353,675.
Why Live in Jay, FL?
Jay offers affordable housing with a median home value of $126,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,008/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($36,964) that falls below the national average. However, Jay’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Jay has a population of 706 with a median age of 37 years. Compare Jay with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Florida.
Similar Cities Near Jay
Cities in Florida with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh | 699 | $67,725 | $0 | Compare |
| White Springs | 717 | $40,972 | $95,600 | Compare |
| Vernon | 723 | $41,364 | $155,000 | Compare |
| Greensboro | 684 | $45,765 | $137,500 | Compare |
| Chaires | 676 | $149,750 | $367,100 | Compare |
| Andrews | 737 | $0 | $115,200 | Compare |
| Ponce de Leon | 738 | $52,250 | $107,100 | Compare |
| East Williston | 671 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Florida
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Jay
What is the population of Jay, FL?
The population of Jay, FL is 706 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Florida.
What is the median household income in Jay?
The median household income in Jay, FL is $36,964 per year, which is 51% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Jay?
The median home value in Jay, FL is $126,800, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Jay?
The median monthly rent in Jay, FL is $1,008, which is 13% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Jay?
The unemployment rate in Jay, FL is 12.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Jay, FL a good place to live?
Jay offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 706 and a median age of 37, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Jay, FL?
14.4% of residents in Jay aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Jay?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Jay, FL: median home value is $126,800 (48% below national), median rent is $1,008/month, and median household income is $36,964. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Jay?
The poverty rate in Jay, FL is 33.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Jay, FL?
Jay's population is 0.0% White, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.6% of residents are foreign-born.