Suffolk County, MA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
785,121
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$95,631/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
357,290
0.9% year-over-year change

Suffolk County population

How many people live in Suffolk County

Suffolk County is home to 785,121 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of Suffolk County locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
785,121
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
378,760
Female
51.8%
406,361
Value Percent YoY change
Male 378,760 48.2% 0.3%
Female 406,361 51.8% 0.5%
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 Suffolk County is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.3% are children under 15, then 16.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 36% of the population, while another 21% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.3%
15 to 24
16.3%
25 to 44
36%
45 to 64
21%
Over 65
13.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 104,710 13.3% -0.8%
15 to 24 128,310 16.3% 2.1%
25 to 44 282,693 36% 0.2%
45 to 64 165,249 21% -1.2%
Over 65 104,159 13.3% 2.7%
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 Suffolk County, 66.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 18.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 14.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 46.2% of locals are Caucasian, 18.2% are African American and 9.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 8.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 17.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
66.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
18.4%
Non-citizens
14.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 524,679 66.8% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 144,662 18.4% 1.6%
Non-citizens 115,780 14.8% 1.2%
Racial breakdown
White
46.2%
Black or African American
18.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
9.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
17.6%
Other
8.3%
Value Percent
White 362,430 46.2%
Black or African American 143,125 18.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,825 0.4%
Asian 72,712 9.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 455 0.1%
Two or more races 138,244 17.6%
Other 65,330 8.3%

Households in Suffolk County

A peek inside Suffolk County households

Suffolk County has 327,167 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 47.4% are families, while the remaining 52.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
327,167
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
172,023
Family households
155,144
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 172,023 52.6% 2.0%
Family households 155,144 47.4% 1.1%
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 Suffolk County

The housing landscape of Suffolk County

Suffolk County's housing consists of 357,290 units, with 13.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.4% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
357,290
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 46,887 13.1%
1 unit, attached 22,692 6.4%
2 units 46,248 12.9%
3 or 4 units 80,720 22.6%
5 to 9 units 36,774 10.3%
10 to 19 units 25,720 7.2%
20 to 49 units 29,818 8.4%
50 or more units 67,639 18.9%
Mobile home 684 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 108 0%
Homes built since 2020
5,261
64.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Suffolk County

In Suffolk County, the median construction year is 1949. About 45.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 162,961 45.6% 0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 17,676 5% -0.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 25,525 7.1% -2.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 25,062 7% -3.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 26,271 7.4% -2.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 22,259 6.2% 3.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 13,996 3.9% -6.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 23,561 6.6% 1.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 34,718 9.7% 10.0%
Built in 2020 or later 5,261 1.5% 64.8%
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.

Suffolk County occupancy rates

Out of the 327,167 occupied housing units in Suffolk County, 36.5% are owner-occupied, while 63.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
327,167
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
207,832
Owner occupied
119,335
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 207,832 63.5% 1.8%
Owner occupied 119,335 36.5% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
8.4%
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.

Suffolk County housing costs

Housing costs in Suffolk County come to a median of $2,210 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,129.

Median housing costs per month
$2,210/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 Suffolk County
$2,129/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 Suffolk County

Suffolk County education at a glance

About 26.1% of the population in Suffolk County went to high school, while 16.7% pursued college studies. Another 4.4% earned an associate degree and 26.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 20% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 42,631 6.5% 2.7%
High school diploma 171,920 26.1% 0.5%
College diploma 110,319 16.7% -2.6%
Associate degree 29,244 4.4% -1.7%
Bachelor's degree 173,012 26.2% 1.3%
Graduate degree 132,183 20% 2.2%
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 Suffolk County

How much people earn in Suffolk County

The average annual household income in Suffolk County was $139,201 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $95,631, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Suffolk County
$139,201/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Suffolk County
$95,631/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Suffolk County income by age

In Suffolk County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $121,129. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $97,620 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,313, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,460 in earnings. Overall, 83.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,313 8.1%
25 - 44 $121,129 2.5%
45 - 64 $97,620 1.8%
Over 65 $49,460 2.4%
Above poverty level
614,011
Below poverty level
118,602
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 614,011 83.8% 0.3%
Below poverty level 118,602 16.2% -1.9%

Employment in Suffolk County

Workforce and job types in Suffolk County

The job market in Suffolk County is powered by 439,114 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 88.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.7% run their own businesses, 63.1% are employed by private companies, and 11.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
439,114
-0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
388,018
Blue collar
51,096
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 388,018 88.4% -0.3%
Blue collar 51,096 11.6% 0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
6.7%
Private companies
63.1%
Governmental workers
11.2%
Not for profit companies
19%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 29,367 6.7% -0.2%
Private companies 277,268 63.1% -0.6%
Governmental workers 49,162 11.2% -0.9%
Not for profit companies 83,317 19% 1.6%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
1.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Suffolk County stands at 6.3%, 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 Suffolk County

How people get around in Suffolk County

In Suffolk County, the average commute time is 31 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 41.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 12% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
31 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 178,037 41.6% -3.1%
Taxicab 3,457 0.8% 52.0%
Bus or trolleybus 35,764 8.4% -1.2%
Subway or elevated 52,934 12.4% N/A
Railroad 4,545 1.1% -10.5%
Ferryboat 774 0.2% 20.6%
Motorcycle 215 0% 7.0%
Bicycle 8,245 1.9% 0.8%
Walk 51,219 12% -3.0%
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 Suffolk County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02108 3,794 1,973 $212,928 $280,583
02109 3,612 2,085 $158,843 $203,099
02110 2,342 1,322 $138,438 $295,416
02111 8,407 3,711 $87,404 $178,687
02113 6,385 4,112 $113,314 $132,599
02114 14,418 8,396 $132,210 $197,092
02115 29,705 9,873 $54,991 $107,105
02116 21,978 11,513 $126,496 $245,220
02118 28,946 14,497 $98,224 $178,495
02119 27,377 11,920 $48,488 $80,323

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FAQs about Suffolk County demographics 

What is the total population of Suffolk County?

Suffolk County has a total population of 785,121 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 Suffolk County?

The gender ratio in Suffolk County is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (378,760 residents)
  • 51.8% females (406,361 residents)

What is the median age in Suffolk County?

The median age in Suffolk County is 33.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Suffolk County?

The age distribution in Suffolk County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.3% (104,710 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.3% (128,310 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 36% (282,693 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21% (165,249 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.3% (104,159 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Suffolk County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Suffolk County is as follows:
  • White: 46.2% (362,430 residents)
  • Black or African American: 18.2% (143,125 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (2,825 residents)
  • Asian: 9.3% (72,712 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (455 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 17.6% (138,244 residents)
  • Other: 8.3% (65,330 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 66.8% of the population in Suffolk County.

How many housing units are there in Suffolk County?

There are 357,290 housing units in Suffolk County, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Suffolk County has a total of 327,167 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Suffolk County?

Suffolk County has a median household income of $95,631, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Suffolk County?

The employment rate is 93.7% in Suffolk County, with a workforce of 439,114 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88.4% (388,018 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11.6% (51,096 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.7% (29,367 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.1% (277,268 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.2% (49,162 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 19% (83,317 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