New Castle County, DE demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
577,961
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$91,166/yr
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
236,079
0.4% year-over-year change

New Castle County population

How many people live in New Castle County

New Castle County is home to 577,961 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of New Castle County locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
577,961
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
280,424
Female
51.5%
297,537
Value Percent YoY change
Male 280,424 48.5% 0.8%
Female 297,537 51.5% 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 New Castle County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.4% are children under 15, then 12.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.1% of the population, while another 25.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.4%
15 to 24
12.9%
25 to 44
27.1%
45 to 64
25.5%
Over 65
17%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 100,570 17.4% -0.1%
15 to 24 74,512 12.9% 0.9%
25 to 44 156,761 27.1% 1.3%
45 to 64 147,560 25.5% -0.8%
Over 65 98,558 17% 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 New Castle County, 85.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 54.2% of locals are Caucasian, 25.6% are African American and 6.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.9%
Non-citizens
5.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 493,176 85.3% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 51,672 8.9% 4.5%
Non-citizens 33,113 5.7% 3.4%
Racial breakdown
White
54.2%
Black or African American
25.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
6.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.5%
Other
5.2%
Value Percent
White 313,334 54.2%
Black or African American 147,685 25.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,320 0.2%
Asian 35,810 6.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 212 0%
Two or more races 49,249 8.5%
Other 30,351 5.2%

Households in New Castle County

A peek inside New Castle County households

New Castle County has 224,173 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 63.5% are families, while the remaining 36.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
224,173
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
81,807
Family households
142,366
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 81,807 36.5% -0.8%
Family households 142,366 63.5% 1.4%
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 New Castle County

The housing landscape of New Castle County

New Castle County's housing consists of 236,079 units, with 53% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 21.3% 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 2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
236,079
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 125,231 53%
1 unit, attached 50,320 21.3%
2 units 4,127 1.8%
3 or 4 units 6,783 2.9%
5 to 9 units 11,115 4.7%
10 to 19 units 16,116 6.8%
20 to 49 units 6,118 2.6%
50 or more units 11,340 4.8%
Mobile home 4,740 2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 189 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
3,076
63.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in New Castle County

In New Castle County, the median construction year is 1975. About 10.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 25,565 10.8% 0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 13,112 5.6% -0.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 32,334 13.7% -3.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 30,863 13.1% -2.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 29,699 12.6% 1.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 27,746 11.8% 0.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 29,821 12.6% -0.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 26,244 11.1% 2.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 17,619 7.5% 3.6%
Built in 2020 or later 3,076 1.3% 63.4%
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.

New Castle County occupancy rates

Out of the 224,173 occupied housing units in New Castle County, 69% are owner-occupied, while 31% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
224,173
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
69,449
Owner occupied
154,724
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 69,449 31% -1.1%
Owner occupied 154,724 69% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
5.0%
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.

New Castle County housing costs

Housing costs in New Castle County come to a median of $1,469 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,448.

Median housing costs per month
$1,469/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 New Castle County
$1,448/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 New Castle County

New Castle County education at a glance

About 32.9% of the population in New Castle County went to high school, while 20.6% pursued college studies. Another 7.4% earned an associate degree and 21.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 11,491 2.5% 1.4%
High school diploma 149,790 32.9% -0.8%
College diploma 93,681 20.6% 1.3%
Associate degree 33,488 7.4% 1.4%
Bachelor's degree 96,828 21.3% 2.5%
Graduate degree 69,988 15.4% 2.6%
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 New Castle County

How much people earn in New Castle County

The average annual household income in New Castle County was $120,512 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $91,166, reflecting a +1.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in New Castle County
$120,512/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in New Castle County
$91,166/year
1.4% year-over-year change

New Castle County income by age

In New Castle County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $98,521. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $108,533 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,336, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $68,907 in earnings. Overall, 89.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,336 13.7%
25 - 44 $98,521 3.7%
45 - 64 $108,533 2.7%
Over 65 $68,907 0.6%
Above poverty level
500,412
Below poverty level
56,068
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 500,412 89.9% 0.9%
Below poverty level 56,068 10.1% -0.0%

Employment in New Castle County

Workforce and job types in New Castle County

The job market in New Castle County is powered by 293,043 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, 7.8% run their own businesses, 67.4% are employed by private companies, and 14.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
293,043
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
240,204
Blue collar
52,839
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 240,204 82% 1.3%
Blue collar 52,839 18% -2.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7.8%
Private companies
67.4%
Governmental workers
14.2%
Not for profit companies
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 22,950 7.8% -1.0%
Private companies 197,389 67.4% 0.1%
Governmental workers 41,470 14.2% 0.8%
Not for profit companies 31,234 10.7% 5.1%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
-0.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in New Castle County stands at 4.8%, 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 New Castle County

How people get around in New Castle County

In New Castle County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 75.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% 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
-0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 218,122 75.8% -2.8%
Taxicab 842 0.3% 81.9%
Bus or trolleybus 6,000 2.1% 11.1%
Subway or elevated 133 0% N/A
Railroad 1,160 0.4% -6.8%
Ferryboat 40 0% 344.4%
Motorcycle 47 0% -31.9%
Bicycle 754 0.3% 6.0%
Walk 6,465 2.2% 2.0%
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 New Castle County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
19709 53,234 18,608 $132,956 $160,194
19711 49,432 18,815 $95,403 $124,729
19713 30,747 12,526 $76,493 $98,081
19701 42,984 16,599 $111,198 $126,733
19702 55,683 21,252 $92,446 $109,426
19703 15,460 6,974 $76,939 $96,243
19706 2,038 758 $83,681 $89,967
19707 17,376 6,448 $172,696 $200,722

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about New Castle County demographics 

What is the total population of New Castle County?

New Castle County has a total population of 577,961 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 New Castle County?

The gender ratio in New Castle County is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (280,424 residents)
  • 51.5% females (297,537 residents)

What is the median age in New Castle County?

The median age in New Castle County is 39.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in New Castle County?

The age distribution in New Castle County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.4% (100,570 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.9% (74,512 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.1% (156,761 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.5% (147,560 residents)
  • Over 65: 17% (98,558 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of New Castle County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of New Castle County is as follows:
  • White: 54.2% (313,334 residents)
  • Black or African American: 25.6% (147,685 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (1,320 residents)
  • Asian: 6.2% (35,810 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (212 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.5% (49,249 residents)
  • Other: 5.2% (30,351 residents)

What percentage of the population in New Castle County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.3% of the population in New Castle County.

How many housing units are there in New Castle County?

There are 236,079 housing units in New Castle County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in New Castle County and what is the average household size?

New Castle County has a total of 224,173 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in New Castle County?

New Castle County has a median household income of $91,166, representing a +1.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for New Castle County?

The employment rate is 95.2% in New Castle County, with a workforce of 293,043 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82% (240,204 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18% (52,839 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.8% (22,950 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.4% (197,389 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.2% (41,470 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.7% (31,234 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