Palatka, FL
Population 10,558 · Florida
About Palatka, FL
Palatka is a mid-sized city located in Florida with a population of 10,558 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $33,628 per year, which is 55% 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 Palatka features a median home value of $112,300, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Palatka one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $914, 21% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,571 total housing units, 46% are owner-occupied (1,988 units) and 54% are renter-occupied (2,289 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 Palatka shows an unemployment rate of 7.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 34.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Palatka have an average one-way commute time of 23.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.1% of Palatka 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 3.3% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 4.1% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 4.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Palatka, FL
Compared to national averages, Palatka has a median household income of $33,628 (55% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $112,300, which is 54% below the national median. Monthly rent at $914 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within Florida, Palatka's income is 56% below the state average of $75,893, and home values are 68% below the state median of $353,675.
Why Live in Palatka, FL?
Palatka offers affordable housing with a median home value of $112,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $914/month, and short commute times averaging just 23.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($33,628) that falls below the national average. However, Palatka’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Palatka has a population of 10,558 with a median age of 37 years. Compare Palatka with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Florida.
Similar Cities Near Palatka
Cities in Florida with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | 10,626 | $71,967 | $292,200 | Compare |
| Milton | 10,485 | $72,676 | $195,600 | Compare |
| Alachua | 10,638 | $78,526 | $285,700 | Compare |
| Lighthouse Point | 10,463 | $92,268 | $667,000 | Compare |
| Pine Ridge CDP (Citrus County), Florida | 10,676 | $66,131 | $354,600 | Compare |
| Pine Castle | 10,429 | $46,154 | $286,900 | Compare |
| Fuller Heights | 10,697 | $80,021 | $262,000 | Compare |
| Pebble Creek | 10,719 | $109,375 | $384,500 | 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.
Compare Palatka With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Palatka
What is the population of Palatka, FL?
The population of Palatka, FL is 10,558 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Florida.
What is the median household income in Palatka?
The median household income in Palatka, FL is $33,628 per year, which is 55% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Palatka?
The median home value in Palatka, FL is $112,300, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Palatka?
The median monthly rent in Palatka, FL is $914, which is 21% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Palatka?
The unemployment rate in Palatka, FL is 7.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Palatka, FL a good place to live?
Palatka offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 10,558 and a median age of 37, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Palatka, FL?
12.1% of residents in Palatka 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 Palatka?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Palatka, FL: median home value is $112,300 (54% below national), median rent is $914/month, and median household income is $33,628. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Palatka?
The poverty rate in Palatka, FL is 34.1%, 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 Palatka, FL?
Palatka's population is 3.3% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 4.1% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 44.2% two or more races. 4.1% of residents are foreign-born.