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

Total population
129,430
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,013/yr
4.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
70,004
0.2% year-over-year change

Berkshire County population

How many people live in Berkshire County

Berkshire County is home to 129,430 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Berkshire County locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
129,430
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
63,381
Female
51%
66,049
Value Percent YoY change
Male 63,381 49% 0.9%
Female 66,049 51% 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 Berkshire County is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.7% are children under 15, then 13.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22% of the population, while another 27.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.7%
15 to 24
13.1%
25 to 44
22%
45 to 64
27.2%
Over 65
25%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 16,424 12.7% -2.3%
15 to 24 16,919 13.1% 9.3%
25 to 44 28,424 22% 0.9%
45 to 64 35,246 27.2% -2.3%
Over 65 32,417 25% 2.8%
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 Berkshire County, 92.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.9% of locals are Caucasian, 2.6% are African American and 1.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.6%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 119,573 92.4% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,010 4.6% -1.9%
Non-citizens 3,847 3% 20.6%
Racial breakdown
White
85.9%
Black or African American
2.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.9%
Other
2.2%
Value Percent
White 111,145 85.9%
Black or African American 3,426 2.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 565 0.4%
Asian 2,461 1.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 43 0%
Two or more races 8,980 6.9%
Other 2,810 2.2%

Households in Berkshire County

A peek inside Berkshire County households

Berkshire County has 57,585 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.7% are families, while the remaining 43.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
57,585
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
24,946
Family households
32,639
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 24,946 43.3% 3.7%
Family households 32,639 56.7% 0.6%
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 Berkshire County

The housing landscape of Berkshire County

Berkshire County's housing consists of 70,004 units, with 65.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.8% 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 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
70,004
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 45,930 65.6%
1 unit, attached 1,942 2.8%
2 units 6,130 8.8%
3 or 4 units 5,885 8.4%
5 to 9 units 3,716 5.3%
10 to 19 units 2,178 3.1%
20 to 49 units 1,578 2.2%
50 or more units 1,617 2.3%
Mobile home 1,008 1.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 20 0%
Homes built since 2020
388
158.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Berkshire County

In Berkshire County, the median construction year is 1956. About 35.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.6% 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 24,845 35.5% -2.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,995 7.1% -2.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,219 13.2% -0.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,088 8.7% 3.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 7,994 11.4% 4.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7,004 10% -2.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,887 5.6% 0.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,752 5.4% 3.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,832 2.6% 5.2%
Built in 2020 or later 388 0.6% 158.7%
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.

Berkshire County occupancy rates

Out of the 57,585 occupied housing units in Berkshire County, 69.9% are owner-occupied, while 30.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
57,585
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
17,322
Owner occupied
40,263
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 17,322 30.1% 2.0%
Owner occupied 40,263 69.9% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
17.7%
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.

Berkshire County housing costs

Housing costs in Berkshire County come to a median of $1,283 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,097.

Median housing costs per month
$1,283/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 Berkshire County
$1,097/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 Berkshire County

Berkshire County education at a glance

About 33.8% of the population in Berkshire County went to high school, while 20.6% pursued college studies. Another 7.4% earned an associate degree and 20.2% 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 1,562 1.4% -12.2%
High school diploma 36,707 33.8% 0.7%
College diploma 22,408 20.6% -1.2%
Associate degree 8,021 7.4% -2.2%
Bachelor's degree 22,009 20.2% 6.2%
Graduate degree 18,061 16.6% 5.2%
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 Berkshire County

How much people earn in Berkshire County

The average annual household income in Berkshire County was $108,456 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,013, reflecting a +4.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Berkshire County
$108,456/year
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Berkshire County
$76,013/year
4.8% year-over-year change

Berkshire County income by age

In Berkshire County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $88,928. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $94,306 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,528, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $59,265 in earnings. Overall, 88.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,528 7.0%
25 - 44 $88,928 9.3%
45 - 64 $94,306 4.9%
Over 65 $59,265 3.0%
Above poverty level
109,349
Below poverty level
14,105
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 109,349 88.6% 0.7%
Below poverty level 14,105 11.4% 5.8%

Employment in Berkshire County

Workforce and job types in Berkshire County

The job market in Berkshire County is powered by 63,877 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.3% run their own businesses, 53.7% are employed by private companies, and 13.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
63,877
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
52,736
Blue collar
11,141
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 52,736 82.6% 2.2%
Blue collar 11,141 17.4% -3.5%
Employer type
Self employees
13.3%
Private companies
53.7%
Governmental workers
13.6%
Not for profit companies
19.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 8,493 13.3% 3.8%
Private companies 34,311 53.7% 1.1%
Governmental workers 8,670 13.6% 4.0%
Not for profit companies 12,403 19.4% -2.4%
Unemployment rate
5.4%
-4.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Berkshire County stands at 5.4%, 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 Berkshire County

How people get around in Berkshire County

In Berkshire County, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 78.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
2.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 48,724 78.3% -0.2%
Taxicab 108 0.2% 36.7%
Bus or trolleybus 627 1% 0.2%
Subway or elevated 214 0.3% N/A
Railroad 53 0.1% 26.2%
Ferryboat 4 0% N/A
Motorcycle 8 0% 0.0%
Bicycle 157 0.2% 38.9%
Walk 3,014 4.8% -5.6%
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 Berkshire County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
01029 539 247 $107,679 $173,467
01201 44,848 20,143 $71,093 $98,600
01220 8,074 4,046 $58,929 $73,048
01222 664 285 $71,042 $87,327
01223 2,495 1,132 $86,818 $121,660
01224 228 89 $76,222 $107,035
01225 3,216 1,515 $69,803 $92,932
01226 6,256 2,907 $79,438 $104,612
01229 263 106 $0 $195,028
01230 8,826 3,690 $86,694 $136,459

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Berkshire County demographics 

What is the total population of Berkshire County?

Berkshire County has a total population of 129,430 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 +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Berkshire County?

The gender ratio in Berkshire County is as follows:
  • 49% males (63,381 residents)
  • 51% females (66,049 residents)

What is the median age in Berkshire County?

The median age in Berkshire County is 47.3.

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

The age distribution in Berkshire County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.7% (16,424 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.1% (16,919 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22% (28,424 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.2% (35,246 residents)
  • Over 65: 25% (32,417 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Berkshire County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Berkshire County is as follows:
  • White: 85.9% (111,145 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.6% (3,426 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (565 residents)
  • Asian: 1.9% (2,461 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (43 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.9% (8,980 residents)
  • Other: 2.2% (2,810 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.4% of the population in Berkshire County.

How many housing units are there in Berkshire County?

There are 70,004 housing units in Berkshire County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Berkshire County has a total of 57,585 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Berkshire County?

Berkshire County has a median household income of $76,013, representing a +4.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.6% in Berkshire County, with a workforce of 63,877 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.6% (52,736 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.4% (11,141 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.3% (8,493 residents)
  • Private companies: 53.7% (34,311 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.6% (8,670 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 19.4% (12,403 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