Manchester, CT demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
36,759
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,267/yr
-3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,774
1.9% year-over-year change

Manchester population

How many people live in Manchester

Manchester is home to 36,759 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.4% of Manchester locals are male, and 48.6% are female.

Total population
36,759
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.4%
18,907
Female
48.6%
17,852
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,907 51.4% 2.6%
Female 17,852 48.6% -1.6%
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 Manchester is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.3% are children under 15, then 14% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.2% of the population, while another 26.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.3%
15 to 24
14%
25 to 44
30.2%
45 to 64
26.2%
Over 65
14.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,615 15.3% -4.2%
15 to 24 5,159 14% 10.2%
25 to 44 11,112 30.2% -3.6%
45 to 64 9,643 26.2% 4.3%
Over 65 5,230 14.2% -0.3%
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 Manchester, 80.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 15% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 54.4% of locals are Caucasian, 20% are African American and 6.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
80.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
15%
Non-citizens
4.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 29,647 80.6% -2.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,522 15% 24.2%
Non-citizens 1,590 4.3% -14.0%
Racial breakdown
White
54.4%
Black or African American
20%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
6.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.5%
Other
8%
Value Percent
White 20,010 54.4%
Black or African American 7,369 20%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1 0%
Asian 2,237 6.1%
Two or more races 4,219 11.5%
Other 2,923 8%

Households in Manchester

A peek inside Manchester households

Manchester has 16,058 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 49.8% are families, while the remaining 50.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
16,058
2.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
8,066
Family households
7,992
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,066 50.2% 12.3%
Family households 7,992 49.8% -5.4%
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 Manchester

The housing landscape of Manchester

Manchester's housing consists of 16,774 units, with 46.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.7% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,774
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,851 46.8%
1 unit, attached 1,126 6.7%
2 units 2,325 13.9%
3 or 4 units 1,658 9.9%
5 to 9 units 1,027 6.1%
10 to 19 units 630 3.8%
20 to 49 units 901 5.4%
50 or more units 1,207 7.2%
Mobile home 49 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
44
340.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Manchester

In Manchester, the median construction year is 1951. About 29.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 18.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 1.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 0.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,891 29.2% 5.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,043 18.1% 6.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,072 18.3% -0.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,647 9.8% -4.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,760 10.5% -3.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,358 8.1% -2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 579 3.4% -1.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 246 1.5% -12.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 134 0.8% 25.2%
Built in 2020 or later 44 0.3% 340.0%
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.

Manchester occupancy rates

Out of the 16,058 occupied housing units in Manchester, 55.9% are owner-occupied, while 44.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
16,058
2.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,075
Owner occupied
8,983
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,075 44.1% 1.3%
Owner occupied 8,983 55.9% 3.9%
Unoccupied housing units
4.3%
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.

Manchester housing costs

Housing costs in Manchester come to a median of $1,507 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,384.

Median housing costs per month
$1,507/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 Manchester
$1,384/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 Manchester

Manchester education at a glance

About 37.9% of the population in Manchester went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 10.6% earned an associate degree and 18% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 557 1.9% 25.2%
High school diploma 11,265 37.9% -1.3%
College diploma 6,007 20.2% -0.3%
Associate degree 3,141 10.6% 21.2%
Bachelor's degree 5,348 18% 0.5%
Graduate degree 3,419 11.5% -2.8%
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 Manchester

How much people earn in Manchester

The average annual household income in Manchester was $91,085 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,267, reflecting a -3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Manchester
$91,085/year
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Manchester
$74,267/year
-3.3% year-over-year change

Manchester income by age

In Manchester, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $89,957. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,147 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $68,074, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,351 in earnings. Overall, 87.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $68,074 14.2%
25 - 44 $89,957 3.0%
45 - 64 $74,147 -11.3%
Over 65 $46,351 -4.5%
Above poverty level
31,696
Below poverty level
4,502
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 31,696 87.6% 3.3%
Below poverty level 4,502 12.4% -14.4%

Average renter income in Manchester

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Manchester, their median household income was $44,364 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$44,364
Rent-to-income ratio
37.4%
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 Manchester

Workforce and job types in Manchester

The job market in Manchester is powered by 20,576 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.2% run their own businesses, 69.4% are employed by private companies, and 15.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
20,576
4.1% year-over-year change
White collar
16,175
Blue collar
4,401
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 16,175 78.6% 3.2%
Blue collar 4,401 21.4% 7.6%
Employer type
Self employees
6.2%
Private companies
69.4%
Governmental workers
15.6%
Not for profit companies
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,273 6.2% 0.9%
Private companies 14,285 69.4% 3.1%
Governmental workers 3,211 15.6% 13.8%
Not for profit companies 1,807 8.8% -1.7%
Unemployment rate
5.5%
6.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Manchester stands at 5.5%, 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 Manchester

How people get around in Manchester

In Manchester, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
23 min
3.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,943 84.4% 3.5%
Taxicab 42 0.2% -25.0%
Bus or trolleybus 601 3% 27.6%
Bicycle 87 0.4% 13.0%
Walk 383 1.9% -0.8%
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 Manchester by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
06040 35,813 14,910 $83,422 $101,870
06042 23,822 10,507 $91,892 $108,185

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FAQs about Manchester demographics 

What is the total population of Manchester?

Manchester has a total population of 36,759 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Manchester?

The gender ratio in Manchester is as follows:
  • 51.4% males (18,907 residents)
  • 48.6% females (17,852 residents)

What is the median age in Manchester?

The median age in Manchester is 37.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Manchester?

The age distribution in Manchester is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.3% (5,615 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14% (5,159 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.2% (11,112 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.2% (9,643 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.2% (5,230 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Manchester?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Manchester is as follows:
  • White: 54.4% (20,010 residents)
  • Black or African American: 20% (7,369 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (1 residents)
  • Asian: 6.1% (2,237 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.5% (4,219 residents)
  • Other: 8% (2,923 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 80.6% of the population in Manchester.

How many housing units are there in Manchester?

There are 16,774 housing units in Manchester, reflecting a +1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Manchester has a total of 16,058 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Manchester?

Manchester has a median household income of $74,267, representing a -3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.5% in Manchester, with a workforce of 20,576 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.6% (16,175 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.4% (4,401 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.2% (1,273 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.4% (14,285 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.6% (3,211 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.8% (1,807 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