Wellesley, MA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
30,347
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$250,001/yr
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,400
-0.3% year-over-year change

Wellesley population

How many people live in Wellesley

Wellesley is home to 30,347 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 43.5% of Wellesley locals are male, and 56.5% are female.

Total population
30,347
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
43.5%
13,208
Female
56.5%
17,139
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,208 43.5% 0.4%
Female 17,139 56.5% 2.3%
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 Wellesley is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.6% are children under 15, then 25.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 14.5% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.6%
15 to 24
25.5%
25 to 44
14.5%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
15.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,640 18.6% 2.5%
15 to 24 7,743 25.5% 3.1%
25 to 44 4,396 14.5% 8.0%
45 to 64 7,877 26% -1.9%
Over 65 4,691 15.5% -2.2%
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 Wellesley, 79.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.7% of locals are Caucasian, 2.2% are African American and 15.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
79.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.2%
Non-citizens
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 24,249 79.9% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,398 11.2% -8.1%
Non-citizens 2,700 8.9% 25.7%
Racial breakdown
White
69.7%
Black or African American
2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
15.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
10.2%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 21,160 69.7%
Black or African American 674 2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 42 0.1%
Asian 4,835 15.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 44 0.1%
Two or more races 3,094 10.2%
Other 498 1.6%

Households in Wellesley

A peek inside Wellesley households

Wellesley has 9,174 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 76.4% are families, while the remaining 23.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,174
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,161
Family households
7,013
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,161 23.6% 3.7%
Family households 7,013 76.4% -0.1%
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 Wellesley

The housing landscape of Wellesley

Wellesley's housing consists of 9,400 units, with 82.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
9,400
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,750 82.4%
1 unit, attached 236 2.5%
2 units 210 2.2%
3 or 4 units 199 2.1%
5 to 9 units 134 1.4%
10 to 19 units 146 1.6%
20 to 49 units 336 3.6%
50 or more units 389 4.1%
Homes built since 2020
314
88.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wellesley

In Wellesley, the median construction year is 1955. About 33.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,170 33.7% -5.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 925 9.8% 7.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,265 13.5% -4.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 685 7.3% -3.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 684 7.3% 0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 392 4.2% 11.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 468 5% -9.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 587 6.2% 2.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 910 9.7% -0.4%
Built in 2020 or later 314 3.3% 88.0%
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.

Wellesley occupancy rates

Out of the 9,174 occupied housing units in Wellesley, 84.4% are owner-occupied, while 15.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,174
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,432
Owner occupied
7,742
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,432 15.6% -1.9%
Owner occupied 7,742 84.4% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
2.4%
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.

Wellesley housing costs

Housing costs in Wellesley come to a median of $3,705 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,886.

Median housing costs per month
$3,705/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 Wellesley
$2,886/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 Wellesley

Wellesley education at a glance

About 14.2% of the population in Wellesley went to high school, while 15.3% pursued college studies. Another 2% earned an associate degree and 26.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 41.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 131 0.6% -19.1%
High school diploma 3,260 14.2% 2.7%
College diploma 3,530 15.3% -1.8%
Associate degree 459 2% -3.2%
Bachelor's degree 6,019 26.1% -0.7%
Graduate degree 9,641 41.8% 3.2%
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 Wellesley

How much people earn in Wellesley

The average annual household income in Wellesley was $367,512 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.2% change from the previous year.

Average household income in Wellesley
$367,512/year
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wellesley
$250,001/year
0.0% year-over-year change

Wellesley income by age

In Wellesley, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $250,001. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $250,001 overall. Overall, 96% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $250,001 0.0%
45 - 64 $250,001 0.0%
Over 65 $138,482 0.8%
Above poverty level
24,127
Below poverty level
1,006
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 24,127 96% -0.2%
Below poverty level 1,006 4% 24.0%

Average renter income in Wellesley

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Wellesley, their median household income was $106,193 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$106,193
Rent-to-income ratio
32.6%
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 Wellesley

Workforce and job types in Wellesley

The job market in Wellesley is powered by 13,512 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 96.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 3.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 66.1% are employed by private companies, and 6.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,512
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
13,010
Blue collar
502
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,010 96.3% 0.7%
Blue collar 502 3.7% 2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
66.1%
Governmental workers
6.4%
Not for profit companies
18.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,247 9.2% -14.4%
Private companies 8,936 66.1% 5.9%
Governmental workers 859 6.4% -9.7%
Not for profit companies 2,470 18.3% -3.5%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
32.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wellesley stands at 4.4%, 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 Wellesley

How people get around in Wellesley

Commuting methods vary: 51.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 10.1% 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 6,847 51.6% -1.9%
Bus or trolleybus 24 0.2% 300.0%
Subway or elevated 141 1.1% N/A
Railroad 507 3.8% 0.6%
Bicycle 27 0.2% 28.6%
Walk 1,335 10.1% -4.2%
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 Wellesley by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02481 17,415 5,111 $250,001 $411,739
02482 11,051 4,063 $226,250 $311,876
02457 1,881 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about Wellesley demographics 

What is the total population of Wellesley?

Wellesley has a total population of 30,347 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wellesley?

The gender ratio in Wellesley is as follows:
  • 43.5% males (13,208 residents)
  • 56.5% females (17,139 residents)

What is the median age in Wellesley?

The median age in Wellesley is 37.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Wellesley?

The age distribution in Wellesley is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.6% (5,640 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 25.5% (7,743 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 14.5% (4,396 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (7,877 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.5% (4,691 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wellesley?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wellesley is as follows:
  • White: 69.7% (21,160 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.2% (674 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (42 residents)
  • Asian: 15.9% (4,835 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (44 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.2% (3,094 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (498 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 79.9% of the population in Wellesley.

How many housing units are there in Wellesley?

There are 9,400 housing units in Wellesley, reflecting a -0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wellesley has a total of 9,174 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wellesley?

Wellesley has a median household income of $250,001, representing a 0.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Wellesley, with a workforce of 13,512 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 96.3% (13,010 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 3.7% (502 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (1,247 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.1% (8,936 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 6.4% (859 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 18.3% (2,470 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