Northborough, MA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,392
-4.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$133,839/yr
-13.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,579
-0.7% year-over-year change

Northborough population

How many people live in Northborough

Northborough is home to 6,392 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47% of Northborough locals are male, and 53% are female.

Total population
6,392
-4.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47%
3,003
Female
53%
3,389
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,003 47% -4.0%
Female 3,389 53% -5.6%
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 Northborough is 49, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.5% are children under 15, then 9.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 16.4% of the population, while another 35.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
48.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.5%
15 to 24
9.5%
25 to 44
16.4%
45 to 64
35.7%
Over 65
21.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,054 16.5% -5.7%
15 to 24 609 9.5% -14.2%
25 to 44 1,048 16.4% -7.6%
45 to 64 2,282 35.7% -6.4%
Over 65 1,399 21.9% 6.1%
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 Northborough, 86.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 78.8% of locals are Caucasian, 2.2% are African American and 6.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
86.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.3%
Non-citizens
2.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,553 86.9% -5.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 659 10.3% -0.6%
Non-citizens 180 2.8% -10.4%
Racial breakdown
White
78.8%
Black or African American
2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
6.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7%
Other
5.8%
Value Percent
White 5,037 78.8%
Black or African American 140 2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5 0.1%
Asian 395 6.2%
Two or more races 447 7%
Other 368 5.8%

Households in Northborough

A peek inside Northborough households

Northborough has 2,548 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.4% are families, while the remaining 32.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,548
-0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
832
Family households
1,716
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 832 32.6% 5.5%
Family households 1,716 67.4% -3.1%
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 Northborough

The housing landscape of Northborough

Northborough's housing consists of 2,579 units, with 75.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.3% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
2,579
-0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,957 75.9%
1 unit, attached 163 6.3%
2 units 147 5.7%
3 or 4 units 178 6.9%
5 to 9 units 43 1.7%
10 to 19 units 31 1.2%
20 to 49 units 39 1.5%
50 or more units 21 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
9
-35.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Northborough

In Northborough, the median construction year is 1968. About 19.2% 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, 2.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 495 19.2% 5.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 113 4.4% 71.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 473 18.3% -8.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 271 10.5% 32.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 417 16.2% -20.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 408 15.8% 0.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 226 8.8% 4.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 67 2.6% 1.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 100 3.9% -19.4%
Built in 2020 or later 9 0.4% -35.7%
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.

Northborough occupancy rates

Out of the 2,548 occupied housing units in Northborough, 83.1% are owner-occupied, while 16.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 1.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,548
-0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
430
Owner occupied
2,118
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 430 16.9% 5.9%
Owner occupied 2,118 83.1% -1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
1.2%
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.

Northborough housing costs

Housing costs in Northborough come to a median of $2,310 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,135.

Median housing costs per month
$2,310/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 Northborough
$1,135/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 Northborough

Northborough education at a glance

About 17.3% of the population in Northborough went to high school, while 14.2% pursued college studies. Another 5.8% earned an associate degree and 31.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 29.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 66 1.3% 6.5%
High school diploma 871 17.3% 7.4%
College diploma 717 14.2% -4.7%
Associate degree 291 5.8% 10.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,602 31.8% -6.3%
Graduate degree 1,496 29.7% -9.9%
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 Northborough

How much people earn in Northborough

The average annual household income in Northborough was $190,351 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -5.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $133,839, reflecting a -13.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Northborough
$190,351/year
-5.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Northborough
$133,839/year
-13.6% year-over-year change

Northborough income by age

In Northborough, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $164,539. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $191,154 overall. Overall, 97.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $164,539 -18.8%
45 - 64 $191,154 -6.5%
Over 65 $83,875 -0.7%
Above poverty level
6,119
Below poverty level
130
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,119 97.9% -4.9%
Below poverty level 130 2.1% -2.3%

Average renter income in Northborough

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Northborough, their median household income was $36,071 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$36,071
Rent-to-income ratio
37.8%
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 Northborough

Workforce and job types in Northborough

The job market in Northborough is powered by 3,338 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 96.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 3.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.6% run their own businesses, 56.5% are employed by private companies, and 17.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,338
-6.0% year-over-year change
White collar
3,225
Blue collar
113
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,225 96.6% -5.4%
Blue collar 113 3.4% -20.4%
Employer type
Self employees
15.6%
Private companies
56.5%
Governmental workers
17.8%
Not for profit companies
10.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 520 15.6% 14.0%
Private companies 1,885 56.5% -10.0%
Governmental workers 595 17.8% -5.7%
Not for profit companies 338 10.1% -8.7%
Unemployment rate
2.8%
-38.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Northborough stands at 2.8%, 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 Northborough

How people get around in Northborough

Commuting methods vary: 71.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% 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 2,384 71.6% -7.3%
Railroad 38 1.1% -7.3%
Walk 39 1.2% -7.1%
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.

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FAQs about Northborough demographics 

What is the total population of Northborough?

Northborough has a total population of 6,392 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 -4.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Northborough?

The gender ratio in Northborough is as follows:
  • 47% males (3,003 residents)
  • 53% females (3,389 residents)

What is the median age in Northborough?

The median age in Northborough is 48.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Northborough?

The age distribution in Northborough is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.5% (1,054 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.5% (609 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 16.4% (1,048 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 35.7% (2,282 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.9% (1,399 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Northborough?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Northborough is as follows:
  • White: 78.8% (5,037 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.2% (140 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (5 residents)
  • Asian: 6.2% (395 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7% (447 residents)
  • Other: 5.8% (368 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 86.9% of the population in Northborough.

How many housing units are there in Northborough?

There are 2,579 housing units in Northborough, 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 Northborough and what is the average household size?

Northborough has a total of 2,548 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Northborough?

Northborough has a median household income of $133,839, representing a -13.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.2% in Northborough, with a workforce of 3,338 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 96.6% (3,225 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 3.4% (113 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.6% (520 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.5% (1,885 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.8% (595 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.1% (338 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