New York demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
19,852,366
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$85,974/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,585,241
0.5% year-over-year change

New York population

How many people live in New York

New York is home to 19,852,366 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of New York locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
19,852,366
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
9,695,214
Female
51.2%
10,157,152
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,695,214 48.8% -0.1%
Female 10,157,152 51.2% -0.1%
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 New York is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.9% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.1% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.9%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
27.1%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
17.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,356,701 16.9% -1.2%
15 to 24 2,478,481 12.5% 0.0%
25 to 44 5,388,018 27.1% -0.0%
45 to 64 5,075,138 25.6% -1.4%
Over 65 3,554,028 17.9% 2.7%
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 New York, 74.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 16.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 55.2% of locals are Caucasian, 14.4% are African American and 9.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
74.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
16.1%
Non-citizens
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 14,826,475 74.7% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,193,681 16.1% 0.1%
Non-citizens 1,832,210 9.2% 1.1%
Racial breakdown
White
55.2%
Black or African American
14.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
9.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.3%
Other
10.4%
Value Percent
White 10,959,018 55.2%
Black or African American 2,849,704 14.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 114,023 0.6%
Asian 1,798,641 9.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 9,619 0%
Two or more races 2,048,059 10.3%
Other 2,073,302 10.4%

Households in New York

A peek inside New York households

New York has 7,722,646 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.4% are families, while the remaining 38.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,722,646
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,984,571
Family households
4,738,075
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,984,571 38.6% 1.9%
Family households 4,738,075 61.4% -0.0%
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 New York

The housing landscape of New York

New York's housing consists of 8,585,241 units, with 41.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.5% 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 2.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,585,241
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,533,093 41.2%
1 unit, attached 470,247 5.5%
2 units 822,296 9.6%
3 or 4 units 594,096 6.9%
5 to 9 units 445,753 5.2%
10 to 19 units 377,168 4.4%
20 to 49 units 720,900 8.4%
50 or more units 1,435,458 16.7%
Mobile home 182,823 2.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 3,407 0%
Homes built since 2020
64,884
81.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in New York

In New York, the median construction year is 1959. About 30.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,598,944 30.3% -0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 656,472 7.6% -1.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,210,607 14.1% -1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,040,358 12.1% -0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 841,477 9.8% 0.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 658,587 7.7% 0.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 506,089 5.9% -1.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 549,929 6.4% 2.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 457,894 5.3% 9.2%
Built in 2020 or later 64,884 0.8% 81.2%
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.

New York occupancy rates

Out of the 7,722,646 occupied housing units in New York, 54.4% are owner-occupied, while 45.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,722,646
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,525,661
Owner occupied
4,196,985
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,525,661 45.6% 0.6%
Owner occupied 4,196,985 54.4% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
10.0%
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.

New York housing costs

Housing costs in New York come to a median of $1,655 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,621.

Median housing costs per month
$1,655/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 New York
$1,621/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 New York

New York education at a glance

About 31.2% of the population in New York went to high school, while 16.9% pursued college studies. Another 8.5% earned an associate degree and 21.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 874,249 5.5% 1.1%
High school diploma 4,920,913 31.2% -0.9%
College diploma 2,670,996 16.9% -1.5%
Associate degree 1,341,021 8.5% -0.7%
Bachelor's degree 3,435,875 21.8% 1.6%
Graduate degree 2,544,000 16.1% 2.2%
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 New York

How much people earn in New York

The average annual household income in New York was $128,247 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $85,974, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in New York
$128,247/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in New York
$85,974/year
1.6% year-over-year change

New York income by age

In New York, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $100,717. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $101,421 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $48,816, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $59,616 in earnings. Overall, 86% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $48,816 4.2%
25 - 44 $100,717 3.1%
45 - 64 $101,421 1.3%
Over 65 $59,616 1.7%
Above poverty level
16,484,916
Below poverty level
2,676,801
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,484,916 86% -0.5%
Below poverty level 2,676,801 14% 2.1%

Employment in New York

Workforce and job types in New York

The job market in New York is powered by 9,523,591 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.9% run their own businesses, 61.8% are employed by private companies, and 16.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,523,591
-0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
7,980,161
Blue collar
1,543,430
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,980,161 83.8% -0.2%
Blue collar 1,543,430 16.2% -1.7%
Employer type
Self employees
9.9%
Private companies
61.8%
Governmental workers
16.4%
Not for profit companies
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 942,298 9.9% 1.4%
Private companies 5,882,267 61.8% -1.4%
Governmental workers 1,563,463 16.4% -0.0%
Not for profit companies 1,135,563 11.9% 2.2%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
2.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in New York stands at 6.4%, 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 New York

How people get around in New York

In New York, the average commute time is 33 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 55.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
33 min
-0.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,128,551 55.1% -2.0%
Taxicab 70,643 0.8% 0.9%
Bus or trolleybus 477,448 5.1% -1.4%
Subway or elevated 1,346,549 14.5% N/A
Railroad 165,085 1.8% -8.3%
Ferryboat 15,317 0.2% 2.3%
Motorcycle 7,516 0.1% 9.6%
Bicycle 76,946 0.8% 4.2%
Walk 520,678 5.6% -2.1%
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 New York demographics 

What is the total population of New York?

New York has a total population of 19,852,366 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in New York?

The gender ratio in New York is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (9,695,214 residents)
  • 51.2% females (10,157,152 residents)

What is the median age in New York?

The median age in New York is 39.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in New York?

The age distribution in New York is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.9% (3,356,701 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (2,478,481 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.1% (5,388,018 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (5,075,138 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.9% (3,554,028 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of New York?

The racial and ethnic makeup of New York is as follows:
  • White: 55.2% (10,959,018 residents)
  • Black or African American: 14.4% (2,849,704 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (114,023 residents)
  • Asian: 9.1% (1,798,641 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (9,619 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.3% (2,048,059 residents)
  • Other: 10.4% (2,073,302 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 74.7% of the population in New York.

How many housing units are there in New York?

There are 8,585,241 housing units in New York, 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 New York and what is the average household size?

New York has a total of 7,722,646 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in New York?

New York has a median household income of $85,974, representing a +1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for New York?

The employment rate is 93.6% in New York, with a workforce of 9,523,591 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.8% (7,980,161 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.2% (1,543,430 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.9% (942,298 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.8% (5,882,267 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.4% (1,563,463 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.9% (1,135,563 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