Sussex County, DE demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
255,626
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$81,497/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
151,799
2.6% year-over-year change

Sussex County population

How many people live in Sussex County

Sussex County is home to 255,626 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Sussex County locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
255,626
3.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
124,018
Female
51.5%
131,608
Value Percent YoY change
Male 124,018 48.5% 3.1%
Female 131,608 51.5% 3.2%
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 Sussex County is 52, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.9% are children under 15, then 9.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.2% of the population, while another 26.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 30.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
51.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.9%
15 to 24
9.3%
25 to 44
19.2%
45 to 64
26.4%
Over 65
30.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 38,064 14.9% 1.2%
15 to 24 23,854 9.3% 4.2%
25 to 44 49,004 19.2% 2.5%
45 to 64 67,455 26.4% 1.5%
Over 65 77,249 30.2% 5.8%
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 Sussex County, 90.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.2% of locals are Caucasian, 9.9% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.7%
Non-citizens
4.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 231,941 90.7% 3.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 12,059 4.7% 0.3%
Non-citizens 11,626 4.6% 2.9%
Racial breakdown
White
74.2%
Black or African American
9.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9%
Other
4.9%
Value Percent
White 189,534 74.2%
Black or African American 25,415 9.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,765 0.7%
Asian 3,244 1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 41 0%
Two or more races 23,058 9%
Other 12,569 4.9%

Households in Sussex County

A peek inside Sussex County households

Sussex County has 106,441 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.7% are families, while the remaining 32.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
106,441
3.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
34,412
Family households
72,029
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 34,412 32.3% 2.6%
Family households 72,029 67.7% 3.4%
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 Sussex County

The housing landscape of Sussex County

Sussex County's housing consists of 151,799 units, with 65.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.8% 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 12.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
151,799
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 99,332 65.4%
1 unit, attached 14,924 9.8%
2 units 1,532 1%
3 or 4 units 2,836 1.9%
5 to 9 units 4,904 3.2%
10 to 19 units 4,006 2.6%
20 to 49 units 2,790 1.8%
50 or more units 1,955 1.3%
Mobile home 19,398 12.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 122 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
9,212
71.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sussex County

In Sussex County, the median construction year is 1999. About 4.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 23.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 19.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 6.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,664 4.4% 0.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,485 1.6% 2.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,030 3.3% -8.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,915 4.6% 4.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 15,456 10.2% 0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 18,828 12.4% 1.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 22,151 14.6% 2.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 35,852 23.6% -4.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 29,206 19.2% 2.7%
Built in 2020 or later 9,212 6.1% 71.3%
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.

Sussex County occupancy rates

Out of the 106,441 occupied housing units in Sussex County, 81.6% are owner-occupied, while 18.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 29.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
106,441
3.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
19,590
Owner occupied
86,851
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 19,590 18.4% 1.3%
Owner occupied 86,851 81.6% 3.5%
Unoccupied housing units
29.9%
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.

Sussex County housing costs

Housing costs in Sussex County come to a median of $1,182 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,238.

Median housing costs per month
$1,182/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 Sussex County
$1,238/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 Sussex County

Sussex County education at a glance

About 37.5% of the population in Sussex County went to high school, while 18.9% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 18% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 7,265 3.5% -0.8%
High school diploma 78,572 37.5% 3.7%
College diploma 39,576 18.9% 2.5%
Associate degree 18,808 9% 2.1%
Bachelor's degree 37,629 18% 3.6%
Graduate degree 27,520 13.1% 6.4%
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 Sussex County

How much people earn in Sussex County

The average annual household income in Sussex County was $109,282 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $81,497, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sussex County
$109,282/year
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sussex County
$81,497/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Sussex County income by age

In Sussex County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,110. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,093 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,130, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $73,326 in earnings. Overall, 89.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,130 -0.1%
25 - 44 $83,110 4.1%
45 - 64 $95,093 4.8%
Over 65 $73,326 2.8%
Above poverty level
223,579
Below poverty level
27,136
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 223,579 89.2% 4.1%
Below poverty level 27,136 10.8% -1.8%

Employment in Sussex County

Workforce and job types in Sussex County

The job market in Sussex County is powered by 109,761 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12% run their own businesses, 64.7% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
109,761
3.2% year-over-year change
White collar
84,701
Blue collar
25,060
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 84,701 77.2% 3.6%
Blue collar 25,060 22.8% 1.8%
Employer type
Self employees
12%
Private companies
64.7%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
8.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 13,226 12% 5.2%
Private companies 71,050 64.7% 3.4%
Governmental workers 16,058 14.6% 4.4%
Not for profit companies 9,427 8.6% -2.8%
Unemployment rate
5.3%
7.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sussex County stands at 5.3%, 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 Sussex County

How people get around in Sussex County

Commuting methods vary: 83.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.3% 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 90,282 83.4% 1.6%
Taxicab 34 0% -68.2%
Bus or trolleybus 387 0.4% 33.5%
Subway or elevated 103 0.1% N/A
Ferryboat 4 0% N/A
Motorcycle 109 0.1% 10.1%
Bicycle 493 0.5% 27.7%
Walk 1,440 1.3% -1.4%
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 Sussex County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
19930 3,014 1,551 $125,491 $204,958
19931 375 166 $99,375 $101,725
19933 10,597 4,047 $60,703 $83,261
19939 7,490 3,183 $89,806 $112,342
19940 7,540 2,469 $65,024 $83,908
19941 3,435 1,192 $75,139 $90,214
19944 636 297 $121,250 $195,145
19945 9,640 3,960 $87,638 $131,213
19947 20,760 6,735 $71,229 $86,030
19950 7,918 3,250 $75,305 $95,629

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FAQs about Sussex County demographics 

What is the total population of Sussex County?

Sussex County has a total population of 255,626 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 +3.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sussex County?

The gender ratio in Sussex County is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (124,018 residents)
  • 51.5% females (131,608 residents)

What is the median age in Sussex County?

The median age in Sussex County is 51.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sussex County?

The age distribution in Sussex County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.9% (38,064 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.3% (23,854 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.2% (49,004 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.4% (67,455 residents)
  • Over 65: 30.2% (77,249 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sussex County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sussex County is as follows:
  • White: 74.2% (189,534 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.9% (25,415 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (1,765 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (3,244 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (41 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9% (23,058 residents)
  • Other: 4.9% (12,569 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.7% of the population in Sussex County.

How many housing units are there in Sussex County?

There are 151,799 housing units in Sussex County, reflecting a +2.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sussex County has a total of 106,441 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sussex County?

Sussex County has a median household income of $81,497, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.7% in Sussex County, with a workforce of 109,761 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.2% (84,701 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.8% (25,060 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12% (13,226 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.7% (71,050 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (16,058 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.6% (9,427 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