Golden, CO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,417
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$98,582/yr
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,175
0.8% year-over-year change

Golden population

How many people live in Golden

Golden is home to 20,417 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 58% of Golden locals are male, and 42% are female.

Total population
20,417
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
58%
11,834
Female
42%
8,583
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,834 58% -1.9%
Female 8,583 42% 2.2%
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 Golden is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.2% are children under 15, then 24.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.8% of the population, while another 23.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.2%
15 to 24
24.5%
25 to 44
26.8%
45 to 64
23.3%
Over 65
13.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,498 12.2% 2.1%
15 to 24 5,009 24.5% 0.7%
25 to 44 5,463 26.8% -0.8%
45 to 64 4,756 23.3% -6.1%
Over 65 2,691 13.2% 8.6%
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 Golden, 92% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 84.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 4% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,790 92% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,021 5% -4.4%
Non-citizens 606 3% 11.0%
Racial breakdown
White
84.4%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
8.5%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 17,227 84.4%
Black or African American 226 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 92 0.4%
Asian 811 4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 12 0.1%
Two or more races 1,744 8.5%
Other 305 1.5%

Households in Golden

A peek inside Golden households

Golden has 7,780 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.7% are families, while the remaining 49.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,780
-0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,833
Family households
3,947
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,833 49.3% 4.8%
Family households 3,947 50.7% -4.3%
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 Golden

The housing landscape of Golden

Golden's housing consists of 8,175 units, with 48.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.8% 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 7.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,175
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,936 48.2%
1 unit, attached 555 6.8%
2 units 108 1.3%
3 or 4 units 444 5.4%
5 to 9 units 431 5.3%
10 to 19 units 586 7.2%
20 to 49 units 982 12%
50 or more units 520 6.4%
Mobile home 613 7.5%
Homes built since 2020
208
39.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Golden

In Golden, the median construction year is 1989. About 7.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 583 7.1% -5.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 143 1.8% -8.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 482 5.9% 2.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 928 11.4% 6.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,393 17% -6.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 641 7.8% -17.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,572 19.2% 2.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,402 17.2% 2.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 823 10.1% 23.9%
Built in 2020 or later 208 2.5% 39.6%
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.

Golden occupancy rates

Out of the 7,780 occupied housing units in Golden, 56.8% are owner-occupied, while 43.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,780
-0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,361
Owner occupied
4,419
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,361 43.2% 4.8%
Owner occupied 4,419 56.8% -3.4%
Unoccupied housing units
4.8%
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.

Golden housing costs

Housing costs in Golden come to a median of $1,862 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,953.

Median housing costs per month
$1,862/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 Golden
$1,953/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 Golden

Golden education at a glance

About 21.1% of the population in Golden went to high school, while 25.1% pursued college studies. Another 4.4% earned an associate degree and 25.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 23% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 137 0.8% 9.6%
High school diploma 3,584 21.1% -1.3%
College diploma 4,273 25.1% -3.9%
Associate degree 743 4.4% 6.1%
Bachelor's degree 4,369 25.7% 3.1%
Graduate degree 3,909 23% -3.3%
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 Golden

How much people earn in Golden

The average annual household income in Golden was $143,183 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $98,582, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Golden
$143,183/year
-2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Golden
$98,582/year
2.8% year-over-year change

Golden income by age

In Golden, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $113,777. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $132,354 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $38,125, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $88,427 in earnings. Overall, 87.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $38,125 -2.1%
25 - 44 $113,777 2.2%
45 - 64 $132,354 10.5%
Over 65 $88,427 8.5%
Above poverty level
15,800
Below poverty level
2,284
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,800 87.4% 0.1%
Below poverty level 2,284 12.6% -3.1%

Average renter income in Golden

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Golden, their median household income was $70,436 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$70,436
Rent-to-income ratio
33.3%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Golden

Workforce and job types in Golden

The job market in Golden is powered by 10,597 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 89% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.9% run their own businesses, 55.1% are employed by private companies, and 19.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,597
0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
9,435
Blue collar
1,162
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,435 89% 0.4%
Blue collar 1,162 11% -3.2%
Employer type
Self employees
12.9%
Private companies
55.1%
Governmental workers
19.6%
Not for profit companies
12.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,367 12.9% -1.6%
Private companies 5,837 55.1% -2.9%
Governmental workers 2,077 19.6% 6.3%
Not for profit companies 1,316 12.4% 6.1%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
-21.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Golden stands at 3.6%, 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 Golden

How people get around in Golden

Commuting methods vary: 58% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,967 58% -4.3%
Bus or trolleybus 68 0.7% 106.1%
Railroad 12 0.1% -14.3%
Bicycle 150 1.5% -36.2%
Walk 746 7.2% 7.0%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Golden by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
80401 43,811 17,319 $118,039 $159,506
80403 20,732 8,490 $151,276 $198,065

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FAQs about Golden demographics 

What is the total population of Golden?

Golden has a total population of 20,417 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Golden?

The gender ratio in Golden is as follows:
  • 58% males (11,834 residents)
  • 42% females (8,583 residents)

What is the median age in Golden?

The median age in Golden is 34.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Golden?

The age distribution in Golden is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.2% (2,498 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 24.5% (5,009 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.8% (5,463 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.3% (4,756 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.2% (2,691 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Golden?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Golden is as follows:
  • White: 84.4% (17,227 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (226 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (92 residents)
  • Asian: 4% (811 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (12 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.5% (1,744 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (305 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92% of the population in Golden.

How many housing units are there in Golden?

There are 8,175 housing units in Golden, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Golden has a total of 7,780 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Golden?

Golden has a median household income of $98,582, representing a +2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in Golden, with a workforce of 10,597 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89% (9,435 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11% (1,162 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.9% (1,367 residents)
  • Private companies: 55.1% (5,837 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.6% (2,077 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.4% (1,316 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