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

Total population
54,695
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$96,657/yr
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
23,081
-0.7% year-over-year change

Peabody population

How many people live in Peabody

Peabody is home to 54,695 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48% of Peabody locals are male, and 52% are female.

Total population
54,695
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48%
26,235
Female
52%
28,460
Value Percent YoY change
Male 26,235 48% 1.8%
Female 28,460 52% 0.2%
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 Peabody is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 16% are children under 15, then 9.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
16%
15 to 24
9.6%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
24.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,728 16% 9.4%
15 to 24 5,260 9.6% -4.9%
25 to 44 13,216 24.2% 1.5%
45 to 64 14,214 26% -1.9%
Over 65 13,277 24.3% 0.8%
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 Peabody, 80.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 12.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 75.3% of locals are Caucasian, 4.6% are African American and 2.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
80.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
12.7%
Non-citizens
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 44,271 80.9% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,928 12.7% 5.3%
Non-citizens 3,496 6.4% 3.7%
Racial breakdown
White
75.3%
Black or African American
4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
2.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.7%
Other
4.5%
Value Percent
White 41,189 75.3%
Black or African American 2,543 4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 179 0.3%
Asian 1,352 2.5%
Two or more races 6,952 12.7%
Other 2,480 4.5%

Households in Peabody

A peek inside Peabody households

Peabody has 22,390 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.7% are families, while the remaining 37.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
22,390
-0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
8,354
Family households
14,036
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,354 37.3% -2.5%
Family households 14,036 62.7% 1.0%
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 Peabody

The housing landscape of Peabody

Peabody's housing consists of 23,081 units, with 50.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.8% 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 2.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
23,081
-0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,700 50.7%
1 unit, attached 1,120 4.8%
2 units 2,055 8.9%
3 or 4 units 1,135 4.9%
5 to 9 units 984 4.3%
10 to 19 units 1,102 4.8%
20 to 49 units 1,447 6.3%
50 or more units 2,993 13%
Mobile home 545 2.4%
Homes built since 2020
23
-4.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Peabody

In Peabody, the median construction year is 1966. About 21.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,031 21.8% -0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,028 4.4% 16.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,092 13.4% 2.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,101 17.8% -4.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,613 7% 11.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,848 12.3% 1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,652 7.2% -27.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,022 13.1% 7.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 671 2.9% 0.3%
Built in 2020 or later 23 0.1% -4.2%
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.

Peabody occupancy rates

Out of the 22,390 occupied housing units in Peabody, 65.6% are owner-occupied, while 34.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
22,390
-0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,702
Owner occupied
14,688
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,702 34.4% -0.3%
Owner occupied 14,688 65.6% -0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
3.0%
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.

Peabody housing costs

Housing costs in Peabody come to a median of $2,011 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,950.

Median housing costs per month
$2,011/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 Peabody
$1,950/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 Peabody

Peabody education at a glance

About 35.6% of the population in Peabody went to high school, while 16.6% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 22.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,214 5% -6.8%
High school diploma 15,834 35.6% 1.9%
College diploma 7,376 16.6% -0.7%
Associate degree 3,967 8.9% -14.2%
Bachelor's degree 9,932 22.4% -0.3%
Graduate degree 5,123 11.5% 7.9%
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 Peabody

How much people earn in Peabody

The average annual household income in Peabody was $123,533 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $96,657, reflecting a +1.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Peabody
$123,533/year
-0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Peabody
$96,657/year
1.4% year-over-year change

Peabody income by age

In Peabody, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $124,260. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $122,358 overall. Overall, 92.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $124,260 6.0%
45 - 64 $122,358 3.3%
Over 65 $64,397 4.5%
Above poverty level
49,290
Below poverty level
4,113
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 49,290 92.3% 0.2%
Below poverty level 4,113 7.7% 18.1%

Average renter income in Peabody

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Peabody, their median household income was $59,087 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$59,087
Rent-to-income ratio
39.6%
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 Peabody

Workforce and job types in Peabody

The job market in Peabody is powered by 28,195 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.5% run their own businesses, 63% are employed by private companies, and 15.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
28,195
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
23,268
Blue collar
4,927
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 23,268 82.5% 0.0%
Blue collar 4,927 17.5% 4.8%
Employer type
Self employees
7.5%
Private companies
63%
Governmental workers
15.8%
Not for profit companies
13.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,106 7.5% 2.1%
Private companies 17,777 63% 0.4%
Governmental workers 4,465 15.8% 0.5%
Not for profit companies 3,847 13.6% 2.5%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
2.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Peabody stands at 4.9%, 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 Peabody

How people get around in Peabody

In Peabody, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
-5.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 23,056 84.4% -1.4%
Taxicab 240 0.9% 627.3%
Bus or trolleybus 225 0.8% -30.6%
Subway or elevated 220 0.8% N/A
Railroad 71 0.3% -70.8%
Bicycle 37 0.1% -2.6%
Walk 275 1% 7.0%
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 Peabody by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
01960 54,474 22,242 $96,501 $123,363

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FAQs about Peabody demographics 

What is the total population of Peabody?

Peabody has a total population of 54,695 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Peabody?

The gender ratio in Peabody is as follows:
  • 48% males (26,235 residents)
  • 52% females (28,460 residents)

What is the median age in Peabody?

The median age in Peabody is 45.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Peabody?

The age distribution in Peabody is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16% (8,728 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.6% (5,260 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (13,216 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (14,214 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.3% (13,277 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Peabody?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Peabody is as follows:
  • White: 75.3% (41,189 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.6% (2,543 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (179 residents)
  • Asian: 2.5% (1,352 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.7% (6,952 residents)
  • Other: 4.5% (2,480 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 80.9% of the population in Peabody.

How many housing units are there in Peabody?

There are 23,081 housing units in Peabody, reflecting a -0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Peabody has a total of 22,390 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Peabody?

Peabody has a median household income of $96,657, representing a +1.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Peabody?

The employment rate is 95.1% in Peabody, with a workforce of 28,195 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.5% (23,268 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.5% (4,927 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.5% (2,106 residents)
  • Private companies: 63% (17,777 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.8% (4,465 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.6% (3,847 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