Barnstable County, MA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
231,668
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$95,241/yr
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
166,215
0.3% year-over-year change

Barnstable County population

How many people live in Barnstable County

Barnstable County is home to 231,668 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of Barnstable County locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
231,668
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
111,539
Female
51.8%
120,129
Value Percent YoY change
Male 111,539 48.2% 0.6%
Female 120,129 51.8% 0.8%
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 Barnstable County is 55, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.3% are children under 15, then 9.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18.3% of the population, while another 27.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 33.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
55.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.3%
15 to 24
9.4%
25 to 44
18.3%
45 to 64
27.9%
Over 65
33.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 26,086 11.3% -1.8%
15 to 24 21,850 9.4% 1.6%
25 to 44 42,440 18.3% 0.8%
45 to 64 64,537 27.9% -1.7%
Over 65 76,755 33.1% 3.4%
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 Barnstable County, 88.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.8% of locals are Caucasian, 2.8% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.8%
Non-citizens
4.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 205,358 88.6% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 15,851 6.8% 3.4%
Non-citizens 10,459 4.5% 7.3%
Racial breakdown
White
85.8%
Black or African American
2.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.1%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 198,817 85.8%
Black or African American 6,467 2.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,025 0.4%
Asian 3,422 1.5%
Two or more races 16,406 7.1%
Other 5,531 2.4%

Households in Barnstable County

A peek inside Barnstable County households

Barnstable County has 105,777 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.6% are families, while the remaining 38.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
105,777
2.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
40,565
Family households
65,212
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 40,565 38.4% 4.1%
Family households 65,212 61.6% 1.9%
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 Barnstable County

The housing landscape of Barnstable County

Barnstable County's housing consists of 166,215 units, with 81.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.1% 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 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
166,215
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 135,640 81.6%
1 unit, attached 8,414 5.1%
2 units 3,685 2.2%
3 or 4 units 5,781 3.5%
5 to 9 units 3,756 2.3%
10 to 19 units 1,924 1.2%
20 to 49 units 3,121 1.9%
50 or more units 2,562 1.5%
Mobile home 1,292 0.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 40 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,287
73.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Barnstable County

In Barnstable County, the median construction year is 1977. About 11.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 18,950 11.4% -1.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,930 3.6% 8.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 16,751 10.1% -4.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 19,815 11.9% -3.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 32,298 19.4% -0.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 33,181 20% -1.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 17,177 10.3% 3.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 14,091 8.5% 4.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,735 4% 11.1%
Built in 2020 or later 1,287 0.8% 73.9%
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.

Barnstable County occupancy rates

Out of the 105,777 occupied housing units in Barnstable County, 81.1% are owner-occupied, while 18.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 36.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
105,777
2.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
20,024
Owner occupied
85,753
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 20,024 18.9% -0.0%
Owner occupied 85,753 81.1% 3.4%
Unoccupied housing units
36.4%
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.

Barnstable County housing costs

Housing costs in Barnstable County come to a median of $1,708 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,678.

Median housing costs per month
$1,708/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 Barnstable County
$1,678/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 Barnstable County

Barnstable County education at a glance

About 25.1% of the population in Barnstable County went to high school, while 18.5% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 25.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 20.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,312 1.7% 5.5%
High school diploma 49,859 25.1% -0.3%
College diploma 36,891 18.5% -0.9%
Associate degree 17,728 8.9% -0.4%
Bachelor's degree 49,863 25.1% 1.2%
Graduate degree 41,311 20.8% 4.7%
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 Barnstable County

How much people earn in Barnstable County

The average annual household income in Barnstable County was $134,349 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $95,241, reflecting a +0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Barnstable County
$134,349/year
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Barnstable County
$95,241/year
0.8% year-over-year change

Barnstable County income by age

In Barnstable County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $108,971. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $124,440 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $55,600, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $76,945 in earnings. Overall, 92.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $55,600 3.5%
25 - 44 $108,971 5.8%
45 - 64 $124,440 0.6%
Over 65 $76,945 -0.9%
Above poverty level
210,095
Below poverty level
17,467
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 210,095 92.3% 0.4%
Below poverty level 17,467 7.7% 4.0%

Employment in Barnstable County

Workforce and job types in Barnstable County

The job market in Barnstable County is powered by 112,042 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.5% run their own businesses, 59.9% are employed by private companies, and 13.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
112,042
-1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
92,741
Blue collar
19,301
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 92,741 82.8% 0.1%
Blue collar 19,301 17.2% -6.3%
Employer type
Self employees
14.5%
Private companies
59.9%
Governmental workers
13.4%
Not for profit companies
12.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 16,288 14.5% -0.7%
Private companies 67,099 59.9% -0.7%
Governmental workers 14,958 13.4% -0.2%
Not for profit companies 13,697 12.2% -4.1%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
7.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Barnstable County stands at 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 Barnstable County

How people get around in Barnstable County

In Barnstable County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 79.1% 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
25 min
-2.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 86,895 79.1% -3.0%
Taxicab 140 0.1% 8.5%
Bus or trolleybus 786 0.7% 6.7%
Subway or elevated 170 0.2% N/A
Railroad 188 0.2% 208.2%
Ferryboat 155 0.1% -49.5%
Motorcycle 35 0% -42.6%
Bicycle 708 0.6% 0.4%
Walk 2,095 1.9% 10.6%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Barnstable County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02532 13,267 6,135 $87,773 $111,823
02534 1,369 575 $137,066 $214,108
02536 21,328 9,100 $100,497 $137,110
02537 6,383 2,534 $136,506 $154,238
02540 8,104 4,161 $77,295 $131,840
02542 882 264 $62,083 $75,655
02553 30 30 $0 $0
02556 2,868 1,196 $121,810 $163,176
02559 2,802 1,394 $90,855 $114,544
02561 670 249 $0 $98,745

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FAQs about Barnstable County demographics 

What is the total population of Barnstable County?

Barnstable County has a total population of 231,668 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Barnstable County?

The gender ratio in Barnstable County is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (111,539 residents)
  • 51.8% females (120,129 residents)

What is the median age in Barnstable County?

The median age in Barnstable County is 55.4.

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

The age distribution in Barnstable County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.3% (26,086 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.4% (21,850 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18.3% (42,440 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.9% (64,537 residents)
  • Over 65: 33.1% (76,755 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Barnstable County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Barnstable County is as follows:
  • White: 85.8% (198,817 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.8% (6,467 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (1,025 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (3,422 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.1% (16,406 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (5,531 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.6% of the population in Barnstable County.

How many housing units are there in Barnstable County?

There are 166,215 housing units in Barnstable County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Barnstable County has a total of 105,777 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Barnstable County?

Barnstable County has a median household income of $95,241, representing a +0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95% in Barnstable County, with a workforce of 112,042 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.8% (92,741 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.2% (19,301 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.5% (16,288 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.9% (67,099 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.4% (14,958 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.2% (13,697 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