New Salem, MA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
668
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$82,713/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
308
-4.0% year-over-year change

New Salem population

How many people live in New Salem

New Salem is home to 668 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.1% of New Salem locals are male, and 44.9% are female.

Total population
668
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.1%
368
Female
44.9%
300
Value Percent YoY change
Male 368 55.1% -1.1%
Female 300 44.9% 0.0%
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 New Salem is 55, with the population distributed as follows: about 9% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.2% of the population, while another 36.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21% are 65 or older.

Median age
55.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
9%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
22.2%
45 to 64
36.1%
Over 65
21%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 60 9% 7.1%
15 to 24 78 11.7% -6.0%
25 to 44 148 22.2% 18.4%
45 to 64 241 36.1% -7.3%
Over 65 140 21% -4.8%
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 New Salem, 97.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. There’s also a share of 13% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.5%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 651 97.5% -2.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 17 2.5% 112.5%
Racial breakdown
White
79%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
13%
Other
7.5%
Value Percent
White 527 79%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3 0.4%
Two or more races 87 13%
Other 50 7.5%

Households in New Salem

A peek inside New Salem households

New Salem has 267 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 74.9% are families, while the remaining 25.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
267
-4.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
67
Family households
200
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 67 25.1% -8.2%
Family households 200 74.9% -2.9%
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 New Salem

The housing landscape of New Salem

New Salem's housing consists of 308 units, with 93.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.3% 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 2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
308
-4.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 287 93.2%
1 unit, attached 4 1.3%
2 units 5 1.6%
3 or 4 units 6 2%
Mobile home 6 2%
Homes built since 2020
4
-20.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in New Salem

In New Salem, the median construction year is 1969. About 43.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 135 43.8% -0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2 0.6% -60.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 13 4.2% 0.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5 1.6% -37.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 31 10.1% -16.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 32 10.4% 6.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 47 15.3% 0.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 30 9.7% 3.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 9 2.9% -18.2%
Built in 2020 or later 4 1.3% -20.0%
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.

New Salem occupancy rates

Out of the 267 occupied housing units in New Salem, 88.8% are owner-occupied, while 11.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
267
-4.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
30
Owner occupied
237
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 30 11.2% -14.3%
Owner occupied 237 88.8% -2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
13.3%
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.

New Salem housing costs

Housing costs in New Salem come to a median of $1,528 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,202.

Median housing costs per month
$1,528/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 New Salem
$1,202/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 New Salem

New Salem education at a glance

About 25.7% of the population in New Salem went to high school, while 25.7% pursued college studies. Another 11.2% earned an associate degree and 24.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 6 1.1% 20.0%
High school diploma 144 25.7% -4.6%
College diploma 144 25.7% 0.7%
Associate degree 63 11.2% 0.0%
Bachelor's degree 136 24.2% -4.2%
Graduate degree 68 12.1% 1.5%
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 New Salem

How much people earn in New Salem

The average annual household income in New Salem was $97,755 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 $82,713, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in New Salem
$97,755/year
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in New Salem
$82,713/year
3.0% year-over-year change

New Salem income by age

In New Salem, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $46,354. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $84,340 overall. Overall, 89.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $46,354 0.9%
45 - 64 $84,340 2.3%
Over 65 $63,000 5.0%
Above poverty level
595
Below poverty level
69
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 595 89.6% -0.5%
Below poverty level 69 10.4% -2.8%

Employment in New Salem

Workforce and job types in New Salem

67.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 30.6% run their own businesses, 37.2% are employed by private companies, and 23.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
276
Blue collar
132
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 276 67.6% 0.4%
Blue collar 132 32.4% 2.3%
Employer type
Self employees
30.6%
Private companies
37.2%
Governmental workers
23.2%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 125 30.6% -8.8%
Private companies 152 37.2% 7.0%
Governmental workers 95 23.2% 6.7%
Not for profit companies 37 9% 0.0%

Transportation in New Salem

How people get around in New Salem

Commuting methods vary: 94.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 300 94.6% 1.0%
Bicycle 3 1% N/A
Walk 14 4.4% -17.6%
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 New Salem by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
01355 958 383 $82,713 $99,833

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FAQs about New Salem demographics 

What is the total population of New Salem?

New Salem has a total population of 668 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in New Salem?

The gender ratio in New Salem is as follows:
  • 55.1% males (368 residents)
  • 44.9% females (300 residents)

What is the median age in New Salem?

The median age in New Salem is 55.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in New Salem?

The age distribution in New Salem is as follows:
  • Under 15: 9% (60 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (78 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.2% (148 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 36.1% (241 residents)
  • Over 65: 21% (140 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of New Salem?

The racial and ethnic makeup of New Salem is as follows:
  • White: 79% (527 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% ( residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (3 residents)
  • Asian: 0% ( residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13% (87 residents)
  • Other: 7.5% (50 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.5% of the population in New Salem.

How many housing units are there in New Salem?

There are 308 housing units in New Salem, reflecting a -4.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

New Salem has a total of 267 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in New Salem?

New Salem has a median household income of $82,713, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for New Salem?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.6% (276 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.4% (132 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 30.6% (125 residents)
  • Private companies: 37.2% (152 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.2% (95 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (37 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