Dover, DE demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
39,837
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,199/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,448
-1.3% year-over-year change

Dover population

How many people live in Dover

Dover is home to 39,837 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.2% of Dover locals are male, and 54.8% are female.

Total population
39,837
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.2%
18,012
Female
54.8%
21,825
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,012 45.2% 0.4%
Female 21,825 54.8% 1.3%
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 Dover is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.9% are children under 15, then 20% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.4% of the population, while another 19.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.9%
15 to 24
20%
25 to 44
26.4%
45 to 64
19.1%
Over 65
17.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,737 16.9% -1.9%
15 to 24 7,988 20% 5.5%
25 to 44 10,522 26.4% 4.3%
45 to 64 7,606 19.1% -5.3%
Over 65 6,984 17.5% 0.7%
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 Dover, 86% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 36% of locals are Caucasian, 46.2% are African American and 2.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
86%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.9%
Non-citizens
5.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 34,260 86% 1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,553 8.9% -0.6%
Non-citizens 2,024 5.1% -1.9%
Racial breakdown
White
36%
Black or African American
46.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
11.4%
Other
3.1%
Value Percent
White 14,362 36%
Black or African American 18,416 46.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 55 0.1%
Asian 1,168 2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 50 0.1%
Two or more races 4,545 11.4%
Other 1,241 3.1%

Households in Dover

A peek inside Dover households

Dover has 15,428 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.6% are families, while the remaining 48.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,428
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,473
Family households
7,955
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,473 48.4% 6.8%
Family households 7,955 51.6% -6.1%
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 Dover

The housing landscape of Dover

Dover's housing consists of 16,448 units, with 40.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 14.9% 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 5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,448
-1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,593 40.1%
1 unit, attached 2,449 14.9%
2 units 365 2.2%
3 or 4 units 580 3.5%
5 to 9 units 1,238 7.5%
10 to 19 units 2,596 15.8%
20 to 49 units 1,127 6.8%
50 or more units 686 4.2%
Mobile home 814 5%
Homes built since 2020
23
360.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dover

In Dover, the median construction year is 1983. About 5.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 976 5.9% -7.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 408 2.5% 9.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,064 6.5% -12.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,472 15% 15.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,725 16.6% 10.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,118 12.9% -10.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,113 12.8% 1.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,842 17.3% -8.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,707 10.4% -8.0%
Built in 2020 or later 23 0.1% 360.0%
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.

Dover occupancy rates

Out of the 15,428 occupied housing units in Dover, 46.9% are owner-occupied, while 53.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,428
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,198
Owner occupied
7,230
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,198 53.1% 0.1%
Owner occupied 7,230 46.9% -0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
6.2%
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.

Dover housing costs

Housing costs in Dover come to a median of $1,337 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,344.

Median housing costs per month
$1,337/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 Dover
$1,344/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 Dover

Dover education at a glance

About 36.2% of the population in Dover went to high school, while 32.1% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 13.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 500 1.6% -16.8%
High school diploma 11,493 36.2% 0.9%
College diploma 10,201 32.1% 7.2%
Associate degree 2,439 7.7% -10.7%
Bachelor's degree 4,347 13.7% -0.9%
Graduate degree 2,784 8.8% -1.7%
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 Dover

How much people earn in Dover

The average annual household income in Dover was $76,340 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,199, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dover
$76,340/year
4.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dover
$60,199/year
3.2% year-over-year change

Dover income by age

In Dover, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,503. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,286 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,264, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,310 in earnings. Overall, 85.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,264 9.3%
25 - 44 $65,503 8.1%
45 - 64 $67,286 -2.9%
Over 65 $46,310 -3.1%
Above poverty level
30,383
Below poverty level
5,316
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,383 85.1% 4.2%
Below poverty level 5,316 14.9% -14.2%

Average renter income in Dover

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Dover, their median household income was $37,831 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 42.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,831
Rent-to-income ratio
42.6%
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 Dover

Workforce and job types in Dover

The job market in Dover is powered by 18,305 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 4.7% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 19.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
18,305
3.8% year-over-year change
White collar
13,837
Blue collar
4,468
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,837 75.6% 3.9%
Blue collar 4,468 24.4% 3.6%
Employer type
Self employees
4.7%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
19.3%
Not for profit companies
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 860 4.7% -7.0%
Private companies 12,305 67.2% 3.9%
Governmental workers 3,531 19.3% 4.1%
Not for profit companies 1,609 8.8% 9.8%
Unemployment rate
8.0%
4.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dover stands at 8%, 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 Dover

How people get around in Dover

Commuting methods vary: 81.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6% 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 15,117 81.8% 4.4%
Taxicab 250 1.4% 26.9%
Bus or trolleybus 204 1.1% -38.5%
Subway or elevated 21 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 11 0.1% N/A
Bicycle 70 0.4% 775.0%
Walk 1,105 6% -8.4%
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 Dover by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
19901 37,763 13,951 $66,388 $87,754
19904 38,818 14,986 $66,908 $86,678

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FAQs about Dover demographics 

What is the total population of Dover?

Dover has a total population of 39,837 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 Dover?

The gender ratio in Dover is as follows:
  • 45.2% males (18,012 residents)
  • 54.8% females (21,825 residents)

What is the median age in Dover?

The median age in Dover is 34.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Dover?

The age distribution in Dover is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.9% (6,737 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 20% (7,988 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.4% (10,522 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.1% (7,606 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.5% (6,984 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dover?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dover is as follows:
  • White: 36% (14,362 residents)
  • Black or African American: 46.2% (18,416 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (55 residents)
  • Asian: 2.9% (1,168 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (50 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.4% (4,545 residents)
  • Other: 3.1% (1,241 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 86% of the population in Dover.

How many housing units are there in Dover?

There are 16,448 housing units in Dover, reflecting a -1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Dover has a total of 15,428 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dover?

Dover has a median household income of $60,199, 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 Dover?

The employment rate is 92% in Dover, with a workforce of 18,305 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.6% (13,837 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.4% (4,468 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 4.7% (860 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (12,305 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.3% (3,531 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.8% (1,609 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