Massachusetts demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
7,044,056
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$103,960/yr
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,030,406
0.5% year-over-year change

Massachusetts population

How many people live in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is home to 7,044,056 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Massachusetts locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
7,044,056
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
3,442,331
Female
51.1%
3,601,725
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,442,331 48.9% 0.8%
Female 3,601,725 51.1% 0.7%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Massachusetts is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.8% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.1% of the population, while another 25.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
40
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.8%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
27.1%
45 to 64
25.9%
Over 65
17.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,112,006 15.8% -0.4%
15 to 24 944,748 13.4% 1.6%
25 to 44 1,907,457 27.1% 1.3%
45 to 64 1,821,572 25.9% -1.1%
Over 65 1,258,273 17.9% 3.0%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Massachusetts, 79% of the population are US-born citizens, while 12.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 68.6% of locals are Caucasian, 6.8% are African American and 7.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
79%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
12.6%
Non-citizens
8.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,566,593 79% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 889,764 12.6% 1.0%
Non-citizens 587,699 8.3% 4.5%
Racial breakdown
White
68.6%
Black or African American
6.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
7.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.1%
Other
5.8%
Value Percent
White 4,835,274 68.6%
Black or African American 481,930 6.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 17,027 0.2%
Asian 514,481 7.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2,289 0%
Two or more races 781,343 11.1%
Other 411,712 5.8%

Households in Massachusetts

A peek inside Massachusetts households

Massachusetts has 2,785,042 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.4% are families, while the remaining 37.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,785,042
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,047,657
Family households
1,737,385
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,047,657 37.6% 1.3%
Family households 1,737,385 62.4% 0.5%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Massachusetts

The housing landscape of Massachusetts

Massachusetts's housing consists of 3,030,406 units, with 51.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,030,406
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,549,565 51.1%
1 unit, attached 177,408 5.8%
2 units 282,603 9.3%
3 or 4 units 323,934 10.7%
5 to 9 units 171,725 5.7%
10 to 19 units 127,704 4.2%
20 to 49 units 136,241 4.5%
50 or more units 236,397 7.8%
Mobile home 23,700 0.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1,129 0%
Homes built since 2020
30,285
67.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the median construction year is 1964. About 30.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 925,420 30.5% -0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 155,678 5.1% -0.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 327,682 10.8% -2.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 299,752 9.9% 0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 335,091 11.1% -1.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 327,256 10.8% 0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 224,161 7.4% -0.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 216,069 7.1% 1.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 189,012 6.2% 7.0%
Built in 2020 or later 30,285 1% 67.0%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Massachusetts occupancy rates

Out of the 2,785,042 occupied housing units in Massachusetts, 62.5% are owner-occupied, while 37.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,785,042
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,043,884
Owner occupied
1,741,158
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,043,884 37.5% 1.1%
Owner occupied 1,741,158 62.5% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
8.1%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Massachusetts housing costs

Housing costs in Massachusetts come to a median of $1,959 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,762.

Median housing costs per month
$1,959/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Massachusetts
$1,762/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Massachusetts

Massachusetts education at a glance

About 28.4% of the population in Massachusetts went to high school, while 16.7% pursued college studies. Another 6.9% earned an associate degree and 24.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 19.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 223,873 3.9% 3.2%
High school diploma 1,616,160 28.4% 0.5%
College diploma 950,839 16.7% -1.3%
Associate degree 389,580 6.9% -0.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,399,498 24.6% 1.7%
Graduate degree 1,099,925 19.4% 2.9%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Massachusetts

How much people earn in Massachusetts

The average annual household income in Massachusetts was $144,950 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $103,960, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Massachusetts
$144,950/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Massachusetts
$103,960/year
2.6% year-over-year change

Massachusetts income by age

In Massachusetts, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $120,614. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $128,381 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,405, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,336 in earnings. Overall, 90% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,405 6.0%
25 - 44 $120,614 3.8%
45 - 64 $128,381 3.0%
Over 65 $66,336 2.3%
Above poverty level
6,079,873
Below poverty level
676,561
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,079,873 90% 0.6%
Below poverty level 676,561 10% 1.1%

Employment in Massachusetts

Workforce and job types in Massachusetts

The job market in Massachusetts is powered by 3,709,853 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 64.5% are employed by private companies, and 12.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,709,853
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
3,127,263
Blue collar
582,590
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,127,263 84.3% 0.8%
Blue collar 582,590 15.7% -0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
64.5%
Governmental workers
12.7%
Not for profit companies
13.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 330,006 8.9% -0.6%
Private companies 2,391,236 64.5% 0.3%
Governmental workers 471,729 12.7% 1.2%
Not for profit companies 516,882 13.9% 2.4%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
0.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Massachusetts stands at 5.2%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Massachusetts

How people get around in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the average commute time is 29 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 68.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
29 min
-0.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,473,315 68.2% -1.6%
Taxicab 15,973 0.4% 22.5%
Bus or trolleybus 78,357 2.2% -1.6%
Subway or elevated 112,150 3.1% N/A
Railroad 38,411 1.1% -8.8%
Ferryboat 3,690 0.1% -4.0%
Motorcycle 2,109 0.1% 13.9%
Bicycle 29,223 0.8% 0.7%
Walk 149,600 4.1% -1.4%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about Massachusetts demographics 

What is the total population of Massachusetts?

Massachusetts has a total population of 7,044,056 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Massachusetts?

The gender ratio in Massachusetts is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (3,442,331 residents)
  • 51.1% females (3,601,725 residents)

What is the median age in Massachusetts?

The median age in Massachusetts is 40.

What is the age distribution of the population in Massachusetts?

The age distribution in Massachusetts is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.8% (1,112,006 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (944,748 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.1% (1,907,457 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.9% (1,821,572 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.9% (1,258,273 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Massachusetts?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Massachusetts is as follows:
  • White: 68.6% (4,835,274 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.8% (481,930 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (17,027 residents)
  • Asian: 7.3% (514,481 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (2,289 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.1% (781,343 residents)
  • Other: 5.8% (411,712 residents)

What percentage of the population in Massachusetts are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 79% of the population in Massachusetts.

How many housing units are there in Massachusetts?

There are 3,030,406 housing units in Massachusetts, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Massachusetts and what is the average household size?

Massachusetts has a total of 2,785,042 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts has a median household income of $103,960, representing a +2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Massachusetts?

The employment rate is 94.8% in Massachusetts, with a workforce of 3,709,853 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.3% (3,127,263 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.7% (582,590 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (330,006 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.5% (2,391,236 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.7% (471,729 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.9% (516,882 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025