Colorado demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,862,189
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$95,470/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,589,053
1.7% year-over-year change

Colorado population

How many people live in Colorado

Colorado is home to 5,862,189 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.6% of Colorado locals are male, and 49.4% are female.

Total population
5,862,189
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.6%
2,969,400
Female
49.4%
2,892,789
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,969,400 50.6% 0.9%
Female 2,892,789 49.4% 0.9%
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 Colorado is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.2% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.3% of the population, while another 23.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.2%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
30.3%
45 to 64
23.9%
Over 65
15.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,007,177 17.2% -1.0%
15 to 24 759,285 13% 0.6%
25 to 44 1,778,049 30.3% 1.8%
45 to 64 1,403,676 23.9% -0.5%
Over 65 914,002 15.6% 3.6%
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 Colorado, 88.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 70.5% of locals are Caucasian, 4% are African American and 3.3% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 14.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.4%
Non-citizens
5.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,186,022 88.5% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 374,200 6.4% 2.1%
Non-citizens 301,967 5.2% 4.2%
Racial breakdown
White
70.5%
Black or African American
4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
3.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
14.9%
Other
6%
Value Percent
White 4,133,760 70.5%
Black or African American 237,409 4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 61,616 1%
Asian 192,697 3.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 8,887 0.2%
Two or more races 873,228 14.9%
Other 354,592 6%

Households in Colorado

A peek inside Colorado households

Colorado has 2,374,218 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.7% are families, while the remaining 38.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,374,218
2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
909,121
Family households
1,465,097
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 909,121 38.3% 3.4%
Family households 1,465,097 61.7% 1.3%
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 Colorado

The housing landscape of Colorado

Colorado's housing consists of 2,589,053 units, with 61.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.6% 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 3.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,589,053
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,590,419 61.4%
1 unit, attached 198,187 7.6%
2 units 39,000 1.5%
3 or 4 units 82,509 3.2%
5 to 9 units 113,556 4.4%
10 to 19 units 148,339 5.7%
20 to 49 units 135,437 5.2%
50 or more units 188,669 7.3%
Mobile home 90,394 3.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2,543 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
78,909
71.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Colorado

In Colorado, the median construction year is 1988. About 7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 180,970 7% 0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 59,512 2.3% 1.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 173,738 6.7% -1.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 196,473 7.6% -0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 418,095 16.2% -0.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 344,581 13.3% 0.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 376,727 14.6% -2.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 429,217 16.6% 1.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 330,831 12.8% 6.5%
Built in 2020 or later 78,909 3% 71.5%
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.

Colorado occupancy rates

Out of the 2,374,218 occupied housing units in Colorado, 66.2% are owner-occupied, while 33.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,374,218
2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
802,483
Owner occupied
1,571,735
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 802,483 33.8% 2.4%
Owner occupied 1,571,735 66.2% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
8.3%
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.

Colorado housing costs

Housing costs in Colorado come to a median of $1,792 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,761.

Median housing costs per month
$1,792/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 Colorado
$1,761/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 Colorado

Colorado education at a glance

About 26.2% of the population in Colorado went to high school, while 21% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 26.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 134,191 2.9% 0.0%
High school diploma 1,211,224 26.2% -0.0%
College diploma 973,194 21% -0.9%
Associate degree 362,594 7.8% 0.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,224,334 26.4% 3.0%
Graduate degree 725,125 15.7% 4.6%
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 Colorado

How much people earn in Colorado

The average annual household income in Colorado was $128,255 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $95,470, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Colorado
$128,255/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Colorado
$95,470/year
3.2% year-over-year change

Colorado income by age

In Colorado, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $105,549. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $116,769 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,497, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $67,371 in earnings. Overall, 90.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,497 2.1%
25 - 44 $105,549 3.8%
45 - 64 $116,769 3.6%
Over 65 $67,371 2.0%
Above poverty level
5,151,217
Below poverty level
535,476
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,151,217 90.6% 0.8%
Below poverty level 535,476 9.4% 1.3%

Employment in Colorado

Workforce and job types in Colorado

The job market in Colorado is powered by 3,085,757 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.5% run their own businesses, 65.7% are employed by private companies, and 14.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,085,757
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
2,531,578
Blue collar
554,179
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,531,578 82% 1.5%
Blue collar 554,179 18% -0.7%
Employer type
Self employees
11.5%
Private companies
65.7%
Governmental workers
14.5%
Not for profit companies
8.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 356,101 11.5% 0.1%
Private companies 2,027,304 65.7% 0.7%
Governmental workers 446,702 14.5% 3.3%
Not for profit companies 255,650 8.3% 2.5%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
4.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Colorado stands at 4.6%, 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 Colorado

How people get around in Colorado

In Colorado, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 72.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
-1.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,237,816 72.8% -1.4%
Taxicab 4,193 0.1% 29.2%
Bus or trolleybus 36,321 1.2% -12.0%
Subway or elevated 1,599 0% N/A
Railroad 1,313 0% -5.5%
Ferryboat 721 0% 23.9%
Motorcycle 4,207 0.1% -11.2%
Bicycle 27,889 0.9% -3.0%
Walk 76,868 2.5% 0.1%
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 Colorado demographics 

What is the total population of Colorado?

Colorado has a total population of 5,862,189 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Colorado?

The gender ratio in Colorado is as follows:
  • 50.6% males (2,969,400 residents)
  • 49.4% females (2,892,789 residents)

What is the median age in Colorado?

The median age in Colorado is 37.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Colorado?

The age distribution in Colorado is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.2% (1,007,177 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (759,285 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.3% (1,778,049 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.9% (1,403,676 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.6% (914,002 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Colorado?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Colorado is as follows:
  • White: 70.5% (4,133,760 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4% (237,409 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (61,616 residents)
  • Asian: 3.3% (192,697 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (8,887 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.9% (873,228 residents)
  • Other: 6% (354,592 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.5% of the population in Colorado.

How many housing units are there in Colorado?

There are 2,589,053 housing units in Colorado, reflecting a +1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Colorado has a total of 2,374,218 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Colorado?

Colorado has a median household income of $95,470, representing a +3.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.4% in Colorado, with a workforce of 3,085,757 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82% (2,531,578 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18% (554,179 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.5% (356,101 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.7% (2,027,304 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.5% (446,702 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.3% (255,650 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