A big thanks to all of our recent donors!
A big thanks to all of our recent donors!
Citrus County has a 2026 estimated population of 173,500 living in roughly 79,000 households. The population is spread evenly across Citrus County’s 773 square miles. Click here for 2020 population grouped by zip code. Most of Citrus County’s population lives within 15 miles of Black Diamond Ranch (click for map). People age 65 and older make up 37% of the population. Adults under 65 represent 49%. Children account for the final 15% of the population. Click here for the numbers.
Income
18% of all Citrus County residents (or 31,000 people) live in poverty. The Federal Government calculates the 2025 poverty threshold at $32,150 for a family of two adults and two children living in Florda. 22% of Citrus County children ages 0 to 17 live in poverty. 12% of seniors 65 and older live in poverty.
The United Way, in their 2025 Citrus County ALICE Report, estimated the necessary income to cover an individual’s or family’s minimum living expenses for 2023. For a family of four, the “ALICE” threshhold was $69,400. The report then estimated that 50% of the households in Citrus County do not have enough income to meet the ALICE expense projection for their family. Thus, in addition to the 18% in poverty, another 32% of Citrus County’s residents are living paycheck to paycheck. These households often have to choose between paying their utilities, buying food or filling prescriptions. They are one car repair bill or hospitalization away from financial disaster.
Food
Families with insufficient incomes, often run out of food before their next paycheck. 72% of children enrolled in the Citrus County Public School System receive free or reduced price meals. A network of charities has evolved in Citrus County to help put food on the table and help feed children on weekends and during summer break from school. A portion of Black Diamond Foundation’s funding helps this network to operate. Click here for more details.
Family Support and Shelter
Several local charities provide assistance to individuals and families ranging from those that need a little help to keep their heads above water all the way to some that need a total rehabilitation of their life. Black Diamond Foundation supports these life saving organizations. Learn more about them.
Veterans
Approximately 18,000 veterans reside in Citrus County. The Viet Nam veterans (roughly one-third of total veterans) are in their 70's and 80's. Black Diamond Foundation provides grants to several crucial veterans organizations.
Health
Despite the availability of Obamacare, 15% of Citrus County residents under the age of 65 are without health insurance. Among the adult population, 24% are obese, 10% have been diagnosed with diabetes, 18% either smoke or vape and 38% have not seen a dentist in the past year. Within the teenage population, the incidence of cigarette use, vaping, alcohol and illicit drug abuse, teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease are higher among Citrus County youth than statewide averages. See what local organizations are doing.
Education
87% of individuals age 25 and older have a high school diploma in Citrus County. 18% have a college degree. Citrus County's public school system and the many support organizations work hard to overcome the disadvantages incurred by one - quarter of the students living in poverty. Read about these support organizations.