District of Columbia demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
681,294
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$109,870/yr
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
361,014
1.4% year-over-year change

District of Columbia population

How many people live in District of Columbia

District of Columbia is home to 681,294 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.5% of District of Columbia locals are male, and 52.5% are female.

Total population
681,294
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.5%
323,822
Female
52.5%
357,472
Value Percent YoY change
Male 323,822 47.5% 1.2%
Female 357,472 52.5% 1.5%
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 District of Columbia is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 12% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 38.7% of the population, while another 20.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
12%
25 to 44
38.7%
45 to 64
20.2%
Over 65
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 110,436 16.2% 0.8%
15 to 24 81,939 12% 4.9%
25 to 44 263,946 38.7% 1.2%
45 to 64 137,814 20.2% -0.2%
Over 65 87,159 12.8% 1.9%
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 District of Columbia, 83.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 37.9% of locals are Caucasian, 42.1% are African American and 4.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
83.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.9%
Non-citizens
7.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 569,671 83.6% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 60,913 8.9% 3.4%
Non-citizens 50,710 7.4% 12.5%
Racial breakdown
White
37.9%
Black or African American
42.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
4.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.6%
Other
5.6%
Value Percent
White 258,050 37.9%
Black or African American 286,997 42.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,528 0.4%
Asian 29,748 4.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 336 0%
Two or more races 65,651 9.6%
Other 37,984 5.6%

Households in District of Columbia

A peek inside District of Columbia households

District of Columbia has 324,491 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 40.8% are families, while the remaining 59.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
324,491
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
191,977
Family households
132,514
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 191,977 59.2% 1.8%
Family households 132,514 40.8% -0.3%
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 District of Columbia

The housing landscape of District of Columbia

District of Columbia's housing consists of 361,014 units, with 11% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 21.7% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
361,014
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 39,744 11%
1 unit, attached 78,345 21.7%
2 units 11,723 3.2%
3 or 4 units 25,266 7%
5 to 9 units 24,140 6.7%
10 to 19 units 29,685 8.2%
20 to 49 units 27,330 7.6%
50 or more units 124,410 34.5%
Mobile home 281 0.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 90 0%
Homes built since 2020
10,380
72.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in District of Columbia

In District of Columbia, the median construction year is 1958. About 31.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 113,693 31.5% 0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 34,585 9.6% -5.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 40,226 11.1% -2.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 36,294 10% 2.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 24,214 6.7% 1.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 15,690 4.4% -7.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,933 2.8% -7.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 26,843 7.4% -2.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 49,156 13.6% 10.2%
Built in 2020 or later 10,380 2.9% 72.4%
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.

District of Columbia occupancy rates

Out of the 324,491 occupied housing units in District of Columbia, 41.5% are owner-occupied, while 58.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
324,491
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
189,808
Owner occupied
134,683
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 189,808 58.5% 0.3%
Owner occupied 134,683 41.5% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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.

District of Columbia housing costs

Housing costs in District of Columbia come to a median of $2,163 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,954.

Median housing costs per month
$2,163/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 District of Columbia
$1,954/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 District of Columbia

District of Columbia education at a glance

About 19.9% of the population in District of Columbia went to high school, while 14.5% pursued college studies. Another 2.6% earned an associate degree and 26.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 34% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 15,778 2.8% 7.0%
High school diploma 110,474 19.9% 1.1%
College diploma 80,392 14.5% -1.0%
Associate degree 14,293 2.6% -5.2%
Bachelor's degree 144,972 26.2% 1.7%
Graduate degree 188,071 34% 2.5%
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 District of Columbia

How much people earn in District of Columbia

The average annual household income in District of Columbia was $162,297 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $109,870, reflecting a +3.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in District of Columbia
$162,297/year
3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in District of Columbia
$109,870/year
3.4% year-over-year change

District of Columbia income by age

In District of Columbia, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $127,139. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $125,089 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,017, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $70,184 in earnings. Overall, 84.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,017 -4.7%
25 - 44 $127,139 3.7%
45 - 64 $125,089 5.5%
Over 65 $70,184 0.8%
Above poverty level
546,718
Below poverty level
99,536
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 546,718 84.6% -0.0%
Below poverty level 99,536 15.4% 7.7%

Employment in District of Columbia

Workforce and job types in District of Columbia

The job market in District of Columbia is powered by 374,990 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 95% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.5% run their own businesses, 45.4% are employed by private companies, and 26.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
374,990
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
356,321
Blue collar
18,669
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 356,321 95% 1.3%
Blue collar 18,669 5% -4.4%
Employer type
Self employees
7.5%
Private companies
45.4%
Governmental workers
26.3%
Not for profit companies
20.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 28,016 7.5% 1.1%
Private companies 170,330 45.4% 0.3%
Governmental workers 98,658 26.3% 1.0%
Not for profit companies 77,986 20.8% 2.4%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
-1.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in District of Columbia 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 District of Columbia

How people get around in District of Columbia

In District of Columbia, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 31.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 9.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
-1.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 117,153 31.4% -2.1%
Taxicab 2,929 0.8% 14.4%
Bus or trolleybus 26,472 7.1% -10.9%
Subway or elevated 47,211 12.6% N/A
Railroad 1,093 0.3% 15.3%
Ferryboat 27 0% 237.5%
Motorcycle 374 0.1% -23.8%
Bicycle 12,158 3.3% 0.5%
Walk 35,337 9.5% -4.6%
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 District of Columbia demographics 

What is the total population of District of Columbia?

District of Columbia has a total population of 681,294 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 +1.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in District of Columbia?

The gender ratio in District of Columbia is as follows:
  • 47.5% males (323,822 residents)
  • 52.5% females (357,472 residents)

What is the median age in District of Columbia?

The median age in District of Columbia is 34.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in District of Columbia?

The age distribution in District of Columbia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (110,436 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12% (81,939 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 38.7% (263,946 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.2% (137,814 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.8% (87,159 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of District of Columbia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of District of Columbia is as follows:
  • White: 37.9% (258,050 residents)
  • Black or African American: 42.1% (286,997 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (2,528 residents)
  • Asian: 4.4% (29,748 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (336 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.6% (65,651 residents)
  • Other: 5.6% (37,984 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 83.6% of the population in District of Columbia.

How many housing units are there in District of Columbia?

There are 361,014 housing units in District of Columbia, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in District of Columbia and what is the average household size?

District of Columbia has a total of 324,491 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in District of Columbia?

District of Columbia has a median household income of $109,870, representing a +3.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for District of Columbia?

The employment rate is 93.6% in District of Columbia, with a workforce of 374,990 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 95% (356,321 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 5% (18,669 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.5% (28,016 residents)
  • Private companies: 45.4% (170,330 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 26.3% (98,658 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 20.8% (77,986 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