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

Total population
813,054
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$101,883/yr
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
329,776
0.4% year-over-year change

Essex County population

How many people live in Essex County

Essex County is home to 813,054 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Essex County locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
813,054
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
395,030
Female
51.4%
418,024
Value Percent YoY change
Male 395,030 48.6% 0.7%
Female 418,024 51.4% 0.7%
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 Essex County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 17% are children under 15, then 12.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
17%
15 to 24
12.6%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
18.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 138,512 17% 0.1%
15 to 24 102,505 12.6% 0.5%
25 to 44 205,506 25.3% 1.5%
45 to 64 216,425 26.6% -1.2%
Over 65 150,106 18.5% 3.3%
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 Essex County, 78% of the population are US-born citizens, while 13.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 67.8% of locals are Caucasian, 4% are African American and 3.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
13.5%
Non-citizens
8.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 634,404 78% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 109,835 13.5% 0.7%
Non-citizens 68,815 8.5% 4.1%
Racial breakdown
White
67.8%
Black or African American
4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
3.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.1%
Other
12.1%
Value Percent
White 551,107 67.8%
Black or African American 32,753 4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,429 0.3%
Asian 29,493 3.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 182 0%
Two or more races 98,713 12.1%
Other 98,377 12.1%

Households in Essex County

A peek inside Essex County households

Essex County has 313,147 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66% are families, while the remaining 34% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
313,147
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
106,335
Family households
206,812
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 106,335 34% 1.3%
Family households 206,812 66% 0.1%
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 Essex County

The housing landscape of Essex County

Essex County's housing consists of 329,776 units, with 49.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.9% 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
329,776
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 163,582 49.6%
1 unit, attached 22,620 6.9%
2 units 33,695 10.2%
3 or 4 units 38,272 11.6%
5 to 9 units 17,817 5.4%
10 to 19 units 13,626 4.1%
20 to 49 units 15,854 4.8%
50 or more units 22,765 6.9%
Mobile home 1,464 0.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 81 0%
Homes built since 2020
2,252
60.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Essex County

In Essex County, the median construction year is 1960. About 34.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 114,098 34.6% 0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 15,149 4.6% -0.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 34,095 10.3% -1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 34,000 10.3% 2.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 30,756 9.3% -1.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 37,180 11.3% -1.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 22,121 6.7% -4.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 22,982 7% 1.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 17,143 5.2% 11.9%
Built in 2020 or later 2,252 0.7% 60.2%
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.

Essex County occupancy rates

Out of the 313,147 occupied housing units in Essex County, 63.5% are owner-occupied, while 36.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
313,147
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
114,309
Owner occupied
198,838
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 114,309 36.5% 1.8%
Owner occupied 198,838 63.5% -0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
5.0%
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.

Essex County housing costs

Housing costs in Essex County come to a median of $2,055 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,756.

Median housing costs per month
$2,055/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 Essex County
$1,756/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 Essex County

Essex County education at a glance

About 30.7% of the population in Essex County went to high school, while 16.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 24% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 31,176 4.8% 2.3%
High school diploma 197,326 30.7% 0.1%
College diploma 108,136 16.8% -1.2%
Associate degree 48,660 7.6% -0.0%
Bachelor's degree 154,723 24% 1.9%
Graduate degree 103,548 16.1% 3.4%
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 Essex County

How much people earn in Essex County

The average annual household income in Essex County was $140,098 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $101,883, reflecting a +2.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Essex County
$140,098/year
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Essex County
$101,883/year
2.5% year-over-year change

Essex County income by age

In Essex County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $110,658. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $128,671 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $62,406, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,414 in earnings. Overall, 90.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $62,406 0.5%
25 - 44 $110,658 3.5%
45 - 64 $128,671 2.3%
Over 65 $66,414 3.2%
Above poverty level
715,699
Below poverty level
73,692
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 715,699 90.7% 0.7%
Below poverty level 73,692 9.3% 0.8%

Employment in Essex County

Workforce and job types in Essex County

The job market in Essex County is powered by 425,405 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 12.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
425,405
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
347,394
Blue collar
78,011
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 347,394 81.7% 0.3%
Blue collar 78,011 18.3% 0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
12.1%
Not for profit companies
11.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 39,564 9.3% -1.4%
Private companies 285,653 67.2% 0.2%
Governmental workers 51,464 12.1% 1.1%
Not for profit companies 48,724 11.4% 2.5%
Unemployment rate
5.1%
1.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Essex County stands at 5.1%, 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 Essex County

How people get around in Essex County

In Essex County, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 74.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
28 min
-1.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 311,003 74.9% -1.6%
Taxicab 3,121 0.8% 7.2%
Bus or trolleybus 6,040 1.4% 13.2%
Subway or elevated 3,400 0.8% N/A
Railroad 5,227 1.3% -14.9%
Ferryboat 22 0% 69.2%
Motorcycle 120 0% -12.4%
Bicycle 743 0.2% 0.8%
Walk 11,123 2.7% -4.0%
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 Essex County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
01830 26,530 10,650 $78,571 $105,975
01832 26,386 10,327 $83,041 $102,091
01833 8,432 3,206 $153,750 $182,012
01834 6,777 2,639 $141,487 $158,991
01835 14,782 5,568 $113,578 $138,097
01840 8,522 3,608 $42,211 $55,171
01810 35,648 13,298 $172,606 $236,640
01841 52,769 17,027 $56,971 $78,344
01843 27,445 10,507 $67,585 $89,190
01844 53,420 18,673 $113,212 $128,146

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FAQs about Essex County demographics 

What is the total population of Essex County?

Essex County has a total population of 813,054 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 Essex County?

The gender ratio in Essex County is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (395,030 residents)
  • 51.4% females (418,024 residents)

What is the median age in Essex County?

The median age in Essex County is 41.2.

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

The age distribution in Essex County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17% (138,512 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.6% (102,505 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (205,506 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (216,425 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.5% (150,106 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Essex County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Essex County is as follows:
  • White: 67.8% (551,107 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4% (32,753 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (2,429 residents)
  • Asian: 3.6% (29,493 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (182 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.1% (98,713 residents)
  • Other: 12.1% (98,377 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 78% of the population in Essex County.

How many housing units are there in Essex County?

There are 329,776 housing units in Essex County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Essex County has a total of 313,147 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Essex County?

Essex County has a median household income of $101,883, representing a +2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.9% in Essex County, with a workforce of 425,405 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.7% (347,394 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.3% (78,011 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (39,564 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (285,653 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.1% (51,464 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.4% (48,724 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