Canton, MA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
24,748
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$143,381/yr
11.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,866
-0.9% year-over-year change

Canton population

How many people live in Canton

Canton is home to 24,748 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Canton locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
24,748
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
12,503
Female
49.5%
12,245
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,503 50.5% 3.8%
Female 12,245 49.5% -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 Canton is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.7% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.5% of the population, while another 27.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.7%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
25.5%
45 to 64
27.1%
Over 65
18.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,629 18.7% 2.0%
15 to 24 2,461 9.9% 12.7%
25 to 44 6,304 25.5% -0.5%
45 to 64 6,700 27.1% 1.5%
Over 65 4,654 18.8% -3.0%
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 Canton, 84.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 12.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.4% of locals are Caucasian, 11.7% are African American and 10.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
12.4%
Non-citizens
3.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 20,805 84.1% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,057 12.4% 13.3%
Non-citizens 886 3.6% -12.1%
Racial breakdown
White
69.4%
Black or African American
11.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
10.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 17,171 69.4%
Black or African American 2,891 11.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 49 0.2%
Asian 2,693 10.9%
Two or more races 1,489 6%
Other 455 1.8%

Households in Canton

A peek inside Canton households

Canton has 9,630 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 70.5% are families, while the remaining 29.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,630
-0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,838
Family households
6,792
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,838 29.5% -4.0%
Family households 6,792 70.5% 1.1%
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 Canton

The housing landscape of Canton

Canton's housing consists of 9,866 units, with 55.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
9,866
-0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,516 55.9%
1 unit, attached 651 6.6%
2 units 401 4.1%
3 or 4 units 178 1.8%
5 to 9 units 899 9.1%
10 to 19 units 849 8.6%
20 to 49 units 572 5.8%
50 or more units 790 8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 10 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
162
18.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Canton

In Canton, the median construction year is 1980. About 11.2% 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, 12.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,106 11.2% -7.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 353 3.6% 56.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,175 11.9% -9.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,158 11.7% -9.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,168 11.8% 9.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,157 11.7% -4.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,277 12.9% -3.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,239 12.6% 6.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,071 10.9% 0.2%
Built in 2020 or later 162 1.6% 18.2%
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.

Canton occupancy rates

Out of the 9,630 occupied housing units in Canton, 73.6% are owner-occupied, while 26.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,630
-0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,539
Owner occupied
7,091
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,539 26.4% 7.2%
Owner occupied 7,091 73.6% -3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
2.4%
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.

Canton housing costs

Housing costs in Canton come to a median of $2,577 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,315.

Median housing costs per month
$2,577/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 Canton
$2,315/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 Canton

Canton education at a glance

About 17.6% of the population in Canton went to high school, while 11.9% pursued college studies. Another 5.4% earned an associate degree and 34.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 30% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 180 0.9% 15.4%
High school diploma 3,348 17.6% -2.8%
College diploma 2,267 11.9% 4.0%
Associate degree 1,026 5.4% -19.3%
Bachelor's degree 6,529 34.2% -1.8%
Graduate degree 5,724 30% 7.5%
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 Canton

How much people earn in Canton

The average annual household income in Canton was $191,098 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $143,381, reflecting a +11.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Canton
$191,098/year
7.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Canton
$143,381/year
11.7% year-over-year change

Canton income by age

In Canton, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $196,726. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $190,000 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $103,875, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $70,994 in earnings. Overall, 94.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $103,875 N/A
25 - 44 $196,726 11.2%
45 - 64 $190,000 22.0%
Over 65 $70,994 2.9%
Above poverty level
22,895
Below poverty level
1,248
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 22,895 94.8% 0.2%
Below poverty level 1,248 5.2% 19.5%

Employment in Canton

Workforce and job types in Canton

92.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 7.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.6% run their own businesses, 65.2% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
11,587
Blue collar
905
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,587 92.8% 0.1%
Blue collar 905 7.2% -16.1%
Employer type
Self employees
9.6%
Private companies
65.2%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
13.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,197 9.6% -19.2%
Private companies 8,150 65.2% 4.0%
Governmental workers 1,434 11.5% -6.5%
Not for profit companies 1,711 13.7% -5.4%

Transportation in Canton

How people get around in Canton

In Canton, the average commute time is 36 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
36 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,813 89.5% -8.2%
Taxicab 30 0.3% -46.4%
Railroad 771 8.8% -0.4%
Bicycle 21 0.2% N/A
Walk 97 1.1% 31.1%
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 Canton by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02021 24,748 9,630 $143,381 $191,098

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FAQs about Canton demographics 

What is the total population of Canton?

Canton has a total population of 24,748 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 +1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Canton?

The gender ratio in Canton is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (12,503 residents)
  • 49.5% females (12,245 residents)

What is the median age in Canton?

The median age in Canton is 42.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Canton?

The age distribution in Canton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.7% (4,629 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (2,461 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.5% (6,304 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.1% (6,700 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.8% (4,654 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Canton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Canton is as follows:
  • White: 69.4% (17,171 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11.7% (2,891 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (49 residents)
  • Asian: 10.9% (2,693 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6% (1,489 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (455 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.1% of the population in Canton.

How many housing units are there in Canton?

There are 9,866 housing units in Canton, reflecting a -0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Canton has a total of 9,630 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Canton?

Canton has a median household income of $143,381, representing a +11.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Canton?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 92.8% (11,587 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 7.2% (905 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.6% (1,197 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.2% (8,150 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (1,434 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.7% (1,711 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