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

Total population
49,568
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$91,982/yr
-5.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
27,656
0.6% year-over-year change

Barnstable Town population

How many people live in Barnstable Town

Barnstable Town is home to 49,568 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.6% of Barnstable Town locals are male, and 53.4% are female.

Total population
49,568
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.6%
23,104
Female
53.4%
26,464
Value Percent YoY change
Male 23,104 46.6% -2.3%
Female 26,464 53.4% 3.4%
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 Town is 49, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.4% are children under 15, then 10.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22% of the population, while another 26.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 26.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
49.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.4%
15 to 24
10.1%
25 to 44
22%
45 to 64
26.7%
Over 65
26.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,133 14.4% 3.8%
15 to 24 5,016 10.1% -1.5%
25 to 44 10,903 22% -1.6%
45 to 64 13,219 26.7% -3.6%
Over 65 13,297 26.8% 6.7%
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 Barnstable Town, 81.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 76.5% of locals are Caucasian, 5.7% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.5%
Non-citizens
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 40,384 81.5% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,693 9.5% -0.5%
Non-citizens 4,491 9.1% 1.5%
Racial breakdown
White
76.5%
Black or African American
5.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11%
Other
5.1%
Value Percent
White 37,925 76.5%
Black or African American 2,821 5.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 321 0.6%
Asian 523 1.1%
Two or more races 5,447 11%
Other 2,531 5.1%

Households in Barnstable Town

A peek inside Barnstable Town households

Barnstable Town has 21,413 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.3% are families, while the remaining 34.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
21,413
3.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,431
Family households
13,982
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,431 34.7% 6.1%
Family households 13,982 65.3% 2.7%
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 Town

The housing landscape of Barnstable Town

Barnstable Town's housing consists of 27,656 units, with 80.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.4% 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 0.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
27,656
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 22,366 80.9%
1 unit, attached 1,208 4.4%
2 units 374 1.4%
3 or 4 units 843 3%
5 to 9 units 647 2.3%
10 to 19 units 549 2%
20 to 49 units 738 2.7%
50 or more units 792 2.9%
Mobile home 139 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
161
109.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Barnstable Town

In Barnstable Town, the median construction year is 1978. About 10% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,780 10% -14.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 753 2.7% -12.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,323 8.4% -12.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,710 9.8% 3.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,532 23.6% 7.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,616 23.9% -4.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,710 9.8% 9.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,745 6.3% 26.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,326 4.8% 4.5%
Built in 2020 or later 161 0.6% 109.1%
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 Town occupancy rates

Out of the 21,413 occupied housing units in Barnstable Town, 75.7% are owner-occupied, while 24.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 22.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
21,413
3.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,194
Owner occupied
16,219
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,194 24.3% 0.2%
Owner occupied 16,219 75.7% 5.1%
Unoccupied housing units
22.6%
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 Town housing costs

Housing costs in Barnstable Town come to a median of $1,901 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,917.

Median housing costs per month
$1,901/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 Town
$1,917/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 Town

Barnstable Town education at a glance

About 28% of the population in Barnstable Town went to high school, while 19% pursued college studies. Another 11.2% earned an associate degree and 22.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,082 2.6% -8.5%
High school diploma 11,499 28% -0.2%
College diploma 7,793 19% 1.8%
Associate degree 4,619 11.2% 4.2%
Bachelor's degree 9,241 22.5% -2.2%
Graduate degree 6,821 16.6% 1.8%
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 Town

How much people earn in Barnstable Town

The average annual household income in Barnstable Town was $128,121 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $91,982, reflecting a -5.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Barnstable Town
$128,121/year
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Barnstable Town
$91,982/year
-5.5% year-over-year change

Barnstable Town income by age

In Barnstable Town, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $91,860. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $118,021 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,833, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $79,494 in earnings. Overall, 92.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,833 2.8%
25 - 44 $91,860 2.4%
45 - 64 $118,021 -3.0%
Over 65 $79,494 -4.2%
Above poverty level
45,163
Below poverty level
3,636
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 45,163 92.6% 0.2%
Below poverty level 3,636 7.4% 6.5%

Average renter income in Barnstable Town

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Barnstable Town, their median household income was $50,352 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 45.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$50,352
Rent-to-income ratio
45.7%
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 Barnstable Town

Workforce and job types in Barnstable Town

The job market in Barnstable Town is powered by 25,342 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13% run their own businesses, 62% are employed by private companies, and 11.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
25,342
-4.4% year-over-year change
White collar
20,839
Blue collar
4,503
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 20,839 82.2% -2.1%
Blue collar 4,503 17.8% -13.8%
Employer type
Self employees
13%
Private companies
62%
Governmental workers
11.8%
Not for profit companies
13.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,304 13% -4.8%
Private companies 15,716 62% -2.8%
Governmental workers 2,990 11.8% -0.2%
Not for profit companies 3,332 13.2% -13.9%
Unemployment rate
3.1%
-9.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Barnstable Town stands at 3.1%, 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 Town

How people get around in Barnstable Town

Commuting methods vary: 83% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% 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 20,453 83% -5.5%
Taxicab 115 0.5% 6.5%
Bus or trolleybus 294 1.2% 3.5%
Railroad 20 0.1% 5.3%
Ferryboat 28 0.1% -74.8%
Bicycle 129 0.5% -3.7%
Walk 444 1.8% 5.7%
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 Town by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02601 16,071 7,562 $61,143 $81,085
02630 2,371 876 $116,895 $181,559
02632 11,685 4,814 $121,317 $137,164
02635 3,577 1,707 $110,197 $171,773
02637 227 150 $0 $166,115
02647 209 91 $0 $202,252
02648 7,968 3,091 $129,681 $137,426
02655 4,024 1,788 $118,750 $216,935
02668 2,820 1,070 $111,731 $126,658

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Barnstable Town demographics 

What is the total population of Barnstable Town?

Barnstable Town has a total population of 49,568 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 Town?

The gender ratio in Barnstable Town is as follows:
  • 46.6% males (23,104 residents)
  • 53.4% females (26,464 residents)

What is the median age in Barnstable Town?

The median age in Barnstable Town is 49.1.

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

The age distribution in Barnstable Town is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.4% (7,133 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.1% (5,016 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22% (10,903 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.7% (13,219 residents)
  • Over 65: 26.8% (13,297 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Barnstable Town?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Barnstable Town is as follows:
  • White: 76.5% (37,925 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.7% (2,821 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (321 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (523 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11% (5,447 residents)
  • Other: 5.1% (2,531 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.5% of the population in Barnstable Town.

How many housing units are there in Barnstable Town?

There are 27,656 housing units in Barnstable Town, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Barnstable Town has a total of 21,413 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Barnstable Town?

Barnstable Town has a median household income of $91,982, representing a -5.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.9% in Barnstable Town, with a workforce of 25,342 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.2% (20,839 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.8% (4,503 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13% (3,304 residents)
  • Private companies: 62% (15,716 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.8% (2,990 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.2% (3,332 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