Jamaica Plain, Boston, MA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
29,654
-2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$131,551/yr
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,155
1.7% year-over-year change

Jamaica Plain population

How many people live in Jamaica Plain

Jamaica Plain is home to 29,654 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46% of Jamaica Plain locals are male, and 54% are female.

Total population
29,654
-2.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46%
13,640
Female
54%
16,014
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,640 46% -1.0%
Female 16,014 54% -3.9%
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 Jamaica Plain is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.4% are children under 15, then 7.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 44.3% of the population, while another 20.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.4%
15 to 24
7.7%
25 to 44
44.3%
45 to 64
20.4%
Over 65
14.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,967 13.4% -7.1%
15 to 24 2,277 7.7% -13.0%
25 to 44 13,148 44.3% -1.3%
45 to 64 6,061 20.4% -2.4%
Over 65 4,201 14.2% 4.7%
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 Jamaica Plain, 76.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 16.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 63.7% of locals are Caucasian, 12% are African American and 6.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
16.1%
Non-citizens
7.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 22,654 76.4% -1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,779 16.1% -0.6%
Non-citizens 2,221 7.5% -14.9%
Racial breakdown
White
63.7%
Black or African American
12%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
6.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
11.5%
Other
5.6%
Value Percent
White 18,877 63.7%
Black or African American 3,558 12%
American Indian and Alaska Native 172 0.6%
Asian 1,948 6.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 30 0.1%
Two or more races 3,399 11.5%
Other 1,669 5.6%

Households in Jamaica Plain

A peek inside Jamaica Plain households

Jamaica Plain has 13,501 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 44.3% are families, while the remaining 55.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,501
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,523
Family households
5,978
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,523 55.7% 6.2%
Family households 5,978 44.3% -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 Jamaica Plain

The housing landscape of Jamaica Plain

Jamaica Plain's housing consists of 14,155 units, with 11.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.8% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,155
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,683 11.9%
1 unit, attached 537 3.8%
2 units 1,921 13.6%
3 or 4 units 4,747 33.5%
5 to 9 units 1,433 10.1%
10 to 19 units 811 5.7%
20 to 49 units 1,160 8.2%
50 or more units 1,776 12.6%
Mobile home 57 0.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 30 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
266
34.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Jamaica Plain

In Jamaica Plain, the median construction year is 1938. About 57.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 8,169 57.7% 4.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 704 5% -15.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 636 4.5% -4.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 686 4.8% -13.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 711 5% -18.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 730 5.2% 3.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 477 3.4% 2.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 573 4% 11.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,204 8.5% 15.9%
Built in 2020 or later 266 1.9% 34.3%
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.

Jamaica Plain occupancy rates

Out of the 13,501 occupied housing units in Jamaica Plain, 44.5% are owner-occupied, while 55.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,501
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,498
Owner occupied
6,003
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,498 55.5% 3.9%
Owner occupied 6,003 44.5% -0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
4.6%
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.

Jamaica Plain housing costs

Housing costs in Jamaica Plain come to a median of $2,464 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,426.

Median housing costs per month
$2,464/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 Jamaica Plain
$2,426/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 Jamaica Plain

Jamaica Plain education at a glance

About 13.1% of the population in Jamaica Plain went to high school, while 8.6% pursued college studies. Another 2.8% earned an associate degree and 28.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 43.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 900 3.6% -0.6%
High school diploma 3,294 13.1% -6.0%
College diploma 2,179 8.6% -6.2%
Associate degree 708 2.8% -4.7%
Bachelor's degree 7,080 28.1% -5.3%
Graduate degree 11,040 43.8% 4.0%
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 Jamaica Plain

How much people earn in Jamaica Plain

The average annual household income in Jamaica Plain was $163,338 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $131,551, reflecting a +0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Jamaica Plain
$163,338/year
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Jamaica Plain
$131,551/year
0.8% year-over-year change

Jamaica Plain income by age

In Jamaica Plain, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $150,348. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $137,386 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $113,583, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $75,639 in earnings. Overall, 89.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $113,583 3.3%
25 - 44 $150,348 0.1%
45 - 64 $137,386 4.0%
Over 65 $75,639 -1.5%
Above poverty level
25,767
Below poverty level
3,010
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 25,767 89.5% -1.8%
Below poverty level 3,010 10.5% -8.8%

Employment in Jamaica Plain

Workforce and job types in Jamaica Plain

96.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 3.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7% run their own businesses, 47% are employed by private companies, and 13.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
17,968
Blue collar
712
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 17,968 96.2% -2.4%
Blue collar 712 3.8% -3.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7%
Private companies
47%
Governmental workers
13.3%
Not for profit companies
32.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,310 7% -2.8%
Private companies 8,772 47% -3.5%
Governmental workers 2,490 13.3% -3.2%
Not for profit companies 6,107 32.7% -0.6%

Transportation in Jamaica Plain

How people get around in Jamaica Plain

In Jamaica Plain, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 62.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 16% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
23 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,171 62.1% -3.9%
Taxicab 19 0.2% -9.5%
Bus or trolleybus 1,140 11.5% 9.0%
Railroad 63 0.6% -50.8%
Ferryboat 9 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 10 0.1% N/A
Bicycle 934 9.4% -12.7%
Walk 1,587 16% 2.7%
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 Jamaica Plain by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02130 40,055 18,237 $131,551 $168,114

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FAQs about Jamaica Plain demographics 

What is the total population of Jamaica Plain?

Jamaica Plain has a total population of 29,654 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 -2.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Jamaica Plain?

The gender ratio in Jamaica Plain is as follows:
  • 46% males (13,640 residents)
  • 54% females (16,014 residents)

What is the median age in Jamaica Plain?

The median age in Jamaica Plain is 35.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Jamaica Plain?

The age distribution in Jamaica Plain is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.4% (3,967 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.7% (2,277 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 44.3% (13,148 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.4% (6,061 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.2% (4,201 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Jamaica Plain?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Jamaica Plain is as follows:
  • White: 63.7% (18,877 residents)
  • Black or African American: 12% (3,558 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (172 residents)
  • Asian: 6.6% (1,948 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (30 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.5% (3,399 residents)
  • Other: 5.6% (1,669 residents)

What percentage of the population in Jamaica Plain are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.4% of the population in Jamaica Plain.

How many housing units are there in Jamaica Plain?

There are 14,155 housing units in Jamaica Plain, reflecting a +1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Jamaica Plain and what is the average household size?

Jamaica Plain has a total of 13,501 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Jamaica Plain?

Jamaica Plain has a median household income of $131,551, representing a +0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Jamaica Plain?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 96.2% (17,968 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 3.8% (712 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7% (1,310 residents)
  • Private companies: 47% (8,772 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.3% (2,490 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 32.7% (6,107 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