North Adams, MA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
12,606
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$47,500/yr
-2.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,024
2.8% year-over-year change

North Adams population

How many people live in North Adams

North Adams is home to 12,606 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.7% of North Adams locals are male, and 47.3% are female.

Total population
12,606
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.7%
6,645
Female
47.3%
5,961
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,645 52.7% -0.2%
Female 5,961 47.3% -0.6%
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 North Adams is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.7% are children under 15, then 15.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.7%
15 to 24
15.8%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
21.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,606 12.7% -6.2%
15 to 24 1,985 15.8% 4.1%
25 to 44 3,054 24.2% 4.4%
45 to 64 3,234 25.6% -0.4%
Over 65 2,727 21.6% -4.9%
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 North Adams, 93.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.9% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,743 93.2% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 381 3% -26.3%
Non-citizens 482 3.8% 24.9%
Racial breakdown
White
86.9%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.9%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 10,951 86.9%
Black or African American 195 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 75 0.6%
Asian 500 4%
Two or more races 744 5.9%
Other 141 1.1%

Households in North Adams

A peek inside North Adams households

North Adams has 5,948 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46% are families, while the remaining 54% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,948
3.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,213
Family households
2,735
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,213 54% 11.5%
Family households 2,735 46% -5.1%
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 North Adams

The housing landscape of North Adams

North Adams's housing consists of 7,024 units, with 42.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.6% 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 2.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,024
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,009 42.8%
1 unit, attached 114 1.6%
2 units 1,005 14.3%
3 or 4 units 1,115 15.9%
5 to 9 units 957 13.6%
10 to 19 units 52 0.7%
20 to 49 units 271 3.9%
50 or more units 325 4.6%
Mobile home 176 2.5%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in North Adams

In North Adams, the median construction year is 1938. About 58.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,119 58.6% 7.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 401 5.7% -13.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 578 8.2% -22.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 484 6.9% -7.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 757 10.8% 19.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 446 6.4% -1.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 95 1.4% 10.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 69 1% -17.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 75 1.1% N/A
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.

North Adams occupancy rates

Out of the 5,948 occupied housing units in North Adams, 51% are owner-occupied, while 49% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,948
3.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,913
Owner occupied
3,035
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,913 49% 8.0%
Owner occupied 3,035 51% -1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
15.3%
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.

North Adams housing costs

Housing costs in North Adams come to a median of $955 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $793.

Median housing costs per month
$955/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 North Adams
$793/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 North Adams

North Adams education at a glance

About 45% of the population in North Adams went to high school, while 23.5% pursued college studies. Another 5.2% earned an associate degree and 14.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 196 1.8% -44.2%
High school diploma 4,781 45% 4.0%
College diploma 2,499 23.5% -3.4%
Associate degree 550 5.2% -3.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,555 14.6% 11.9%
Graduate degree 1,046 9.8% -3.0%
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 North Adams

How much people earn in North Adams

The average annual household income in North Adams was $75,879 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $47,500, reflecting a -2.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in North Adams
$75,879/year
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in North Adams
$47,500/year
-2.1% year-over-year change

North Adams income by age

In North Adams, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $42,301. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $60,637 overall. Overall, 81.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $42,301 -0.5%
45 - 64 $60,637 3.5%
Over 65 $42,606 -8.3%
Above poverty level
9,576
Below poverty level
2,167
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,576 81.6% -0.5%
Below poverty level 2,167 18.4% 3.5%

Average renter income in North Adams

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in North Adams, their median household income was $29,740 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$29,740
Rent-to-income ratio
32%
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 North Adams

Workforce and job types in North Adams

The job market in North Adams is powered by 5,630 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10% run their own businesses, 54% are employed by private companies, and 15.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,630
2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
4,164
Blue collar
1,466
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,164 74% 2.2%
Blue collar 1,466 26% 2.7%
Employer type
Self employees
10%
Private companies
54%
Governmental workers
15.3%
Not for profit companies
20.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 563 10% 11.3%
Private companies 3,039 54% 7.0%
Governmental workers 861 15.3% -6.7%
Not for profit companies 1,167 20.7% -5.3%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
-16.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in North Adams stands at 5%, 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 North Adams

How people get around in North Adams

Commuting methods vary: 82.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.3% 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 4,475 82.2% 5.1%
Taxicab 12 0.2% -25.0%
Bus or trolleybus 24 0.4% N/A
Bicycle 29 0.5% 141.7%
Walk 398 7.3% -19.8%
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 North Adams by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
01247 14,794 6,893 $52,330 $78,740

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FAQs about North Adams demographics 

What is the total population of North Adams?

North Adams has a total population of 12,606 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 -0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in North Adams?

The gender ratio in North Adams is as follows:
  • 52.7% males (6,645 residents)
  • 47.3% females (5,961 residents)

What is the median age in North Adams?

The median age in North Adams is 44.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in North Adams?

The age distribution in North Adams is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.7% (1,606 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.8% (1,985 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (3,054 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (3,234 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.6% (2,727 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of North Adams?

The racial and ethnic makeup of North Adams is as follows:
  • White: 86.9% (10,951 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (195 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (75 residents)
  • Asian: 4% (500 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.9% (744 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (141 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.2% of the population in North Adams.

How many housing units are there in North Adams?

There are 7,024 housing units in North Adams, reflecting a +2.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

North Adams has a total of 5,948 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in North Adams?

North Adams has a median household income of $47,500, representing a -2.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for North Adams?

The employment rate is 95% in North Adams, with a workforce of 5,630 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74% (4,164 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26% (1,466 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10% (563 residents)
  • Private companies: 54% (3,039 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.3% (861 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 20.7% (1,167 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