Home construction slowed dramatically in 2008 and 2009 as the housing market weakened. Home sales have declined and builder inventory levels remain elevated with the reduced demand. In 2008, 47 single family permits for home construction were issued. In 2010, that number dropped to 21.

For 2010, existing home sales for Bartow was 37, which was an increase from 2008 with 22 existing home sales.

Educational attainment for the population aged 25 and over in 2009 shows an increase from 2000. Less than 9th grade, 7.1%; 9th to 12th grade, no diploma, 11.1%; High school graduates, 36.3%; some college, 20%; Associate Degree, $7.5%; Bachelor's Degree, 12.4%; Graduate Degree, 5.6%.

White, 66.02%
Black or African American, 24.28%
American Indian and Alaskan Native, .61%
Asian, 1.66%
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Island, .05%
Other, 3.99%
Two or More Races, 3.39%

Bartow Regional Medical Center - 72 beds.

Average Wage, 2009 = $35,480
Wage increases have outpaced inflation. (Source: Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation)