Lowell, MA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
118,368
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$78,658/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
44,850
1.7% year-over-year change

Lowell population

How many people live in Lowell

Lowell is home to 118,368 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Lowell locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
118,368
3.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
58,761
Female
50.4%
59,607
Value Percent YoY change
Male 58,761 49.6% 3.4%
Female 59,607 50.4% 2.9%
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 Lowell is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.1% are children under 15, then 15.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.4% of the population, while another 23.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.1%
15 to 24
15.4%
25 to 44
30.4%
45 to 64
23.4%
Over 65
12.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 21,471 18.1% 2.5%
15 to 24 18,267 15.4% 4.4%
25 to 44 35,926 30.4% 3.1%
45 to 64 27,744 23.4% 1.6%
Over 65 14,960 12.6% 5.4%
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 Lowell, 64.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 21.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 14.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 46.7% of locals are Caucasian, 10.3% are African American and 22.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
64.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
21.4%
Non-citizens
14.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 76,019 64.2% 1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 25,276 21.4% 5.6%
Non-citizens 17,073 14.4% 8.3%
Racial breakdown
White
46.7%
Black or African American
10.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
22.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.6%
Other
9.2%
Value Percent
White 55,316 46.7%
Black or African American 12,173 10.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 46 0%
Asian 26,286 22.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 10 0%
Two or more races 13,670 11.6%
Other 10,867 9.2%

Households in Lowell

A peek inside Lowell households

Lowell has 43,183 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 60% are families, while the remaining 40% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
43,183
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
17,289
Family households
25,894
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 17,289 40% 1.8%
Family households 25,894 60% 1.9%
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 Lowell

The housing landscape of Lowell

Lowell's housing consists of 44,850 units, with 30.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.3% 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
44,850
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,524 30.2%
1 unit, attached 3,261 7.3%
2 units 7,273 16.2%
3 or 4 units 4,664 10.4%
5 to 9 units 3,791 8.4%
10 to 19 units 3,784 8.4%
20 to 49 units 3,705 8.3%
50 or more units 4,609 10.3%
Mobile home 156 0.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 83 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
210
22.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lowell

In Lowell, the median construction year is 1953. About 43.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 19,693 43.9% 4.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,523 3.4% -5.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,573 8% -7.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,992 8.9% 0.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,908 10.9% 9.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,263 9.5% -8.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,231 5% 3.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,603 5.8% 1.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,854 4.1% 3.5%
Built in 2020 or later 210 0.5% 22.1%
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.

Lowell occupancy rates

Out of the 43,183 occupied housing units in Lowell, 43.2% are owner-occupied, while 56.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
43,183
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
24,514
Owner occupied
18,669
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 24,514 56.8% 3.3%
Owner occupied 18,669 43.2% 0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
3.7%
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.

Lowell housing costs

Housing costs in Lowell come to a median of $1,708 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,625.

Median housing costs per month
$1,708/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 Lowell
$1,625/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 Lowell

Lowell education at a glance

About 39.5% of the population in Lowell went to high school, while 17.5% pursued college studies. Another 7.2% earned an associate degree and 17.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 7,546 8.1% 2.9%
High school diploma 36,629 39.5% 4.0%
College diploma 16,257 17.5% -4.2%
Associate degree 6,645 7.2% 6.7%
Bachelor's degree 16,313 17.6% 6.0%
Graduate degree 9,329 10.1% -0.1%
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 Lowell

How much people earn in Lowell

The average annual household income in Lowell was $98,552 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $78,658, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lowell
$98,552/year
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lowell
$78,658/year
3.2% year-over-year change

Lowell income by age

In Lowell, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $94,478. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,361 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,430, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,314 in earnings. Overall, 83.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,430 22.1%
25 - 44 $94,478 3.6%
45 - 64 $80,361 -1.5%
Over 65 $46,314 -3.6%
Above poverty level
93,216
Below poverty level
18,827
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 93,216 83.2% 1.9%
Below poverty level 18,827 16.8% 8.8%

Average renter income in Lowell

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Lowell, their median household income was $55,295 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$55,295
Rent-to-income ratio
35.3%
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 Lowell

Workforce and job types in Lowell

The job market in Lowell is powered by 60,811 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.6% run their own businesses, 71.2% are employed by private companies, and 11.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
60,811
3.1% year-over-year change
White collar
46,624
Blue collar
14,187
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 46,624 76.7% 4.0%
Blue collar 14,187 23.3% 0.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.6%
Private companies
71.2%
Governmental workers
11.9%
Not for profit companies
10.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,043 6.6% -11.8%
Private companies 43,284 71.2% 2.3%
Governmental workers 7,262 11.9% 13.0%
Not for profit companies 6,222 10.2% 9.4%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
9.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lowell stands at 5.7%, 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 Lowell

How people get around in Lowell

In Lowell, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 80.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.1% 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 47,890 80.9% 2.1%
Taxicab 519 0.9% 32.1%
Bus or trolleybus 511 0.9% 1.0%
Subway or elevated 68 0.1% N/A
Railroad 382 0.6% -23.8%
Motorcycle 36 0.1% 56.5%
Bicycle 141 0.2% -32.5%
Walk 2,418 4.1% 9.1%
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 Lowell by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
01850 17,740 6,089 $69,780 $78,691
01851 33,403 11,421 $92,401 $111,142
01852 37,144 15,071 $80,906 $100,167
01854 30,081 10,602 $72,709 $94,098

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FAQs about Lowell demographics 

What is the total population of Lowell?

Lowell has a total population of 118,368 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 +3.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lowell?

The gender ratio in Lowell is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (58,761 residents)
  • 50.4% females (59,607 residents)

What is the median age in Lowell?

The median age in Lowell is 35.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lowell?

The age distribution in Lowell is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.1% (21,471 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.4% (18,267 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.4% (35,926 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.4% (27,744 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.6% (14,960 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lowell?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lowell is as follows:
  • White: 46.7% (55,316 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.3% (12,173 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (46 residents)
  • Asian: 22.2% (26,286 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (10 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.6% (13,670 residents)
  • Other: 9.2% (10,867 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 64.2% of the population in Lowell.

How many housing units are there in Lowell?

There are 44,850 housing units in Lowell, 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 Lowell and what is the average household size?

Lowell has a total of 43,183 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lowell?

Lowell has a median household income of $78,658, representing a +3.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.3% in Lowell, with a workforce of 60,811 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.7% (46,624 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.3% (14,187 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.6% (4,043 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.2% (43,284 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.9% (7,262 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.2% (6,222 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