Maryland demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,206,011
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$103,678/yr
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,560,784
0.6% year-over-year change

Maryland population

How many people live in Maryland

Maryland is home to 6,206,011 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.7% of Maryland locals are male, and 51.3% are female.

Total population
6,206,011
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.7%
3,019,876
Female
51.3%
3,186,135
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,019,876 48.7% 0.6%
Female 3,186,135 51.3% 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 Maryland is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.8% of the population, while another 25.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
26.8%
45 to 64
25.9%
Over 65
16.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,133,154 18.3% -0.2%
15 to 24 771,522 12.4% 1.2%
25 to 44 1,660,212 26.8% 0.7%
45 to 64 1,607,382 25.9% -0.9%
Over 65 1,033,741 16.7% 3.0%
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 Maryland, 81.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 48.2% of locals are Caucasian, 29.4% are African American and 6.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.8%
Non-citizens
7.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,066,653 81.6% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 671,352 10.8% 3.2%
Non-citizens 468,006 7.5% 1.8%
Racial breakdown
White
48.2%
Black or African American
29.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
6.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.5%
Other
6.9%
Value Percent
White 2,988,904 48.2%
Black or African American 1,822,132 29.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 25,736 0.4%
Asian 408,580 6.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2,708 0%
Two or more races 528,261 8.5%
Other 429,690 6.9%

Households in Maryland

A peek inside Maryland households

Maryland has 2,362,928 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65% are families, while the remaining 35% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,362,928
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
827,222
Family households
1,535,706
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 827,222 35% 2.1%
Family households 1,535,706 65% 0.4%
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 Maryland

The housing landscape of Maryland

Maryland's housing consists of 2,560,784 units, with 51.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 21.3% 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 1.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,560,784
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,310,576 51.2%
1 unit, attached 545,305 21.3%
2 units 37,364 1.5%
3 or 4 units 54,736 2.1%
5 to 9 units 132,707 5.2%
10 to 19 units 185,956 7.3%
20 to 49 units 62,508 2.4%
50 or more units 198,039 7.7%
Mobile home 32,621 1.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 972 0%
Homes built since 2020
34,933
70.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Maryland

In Maryland, the median construction year is 1979. About 10.7% 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, 11.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 273,682 10.7% -0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 127,483 5% -1.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 269,501 10.5% -1.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 294,340 11.5% 0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 345,996 13.5% 0.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 379,025 14.8% -0.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 334,733 13.1% -2.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 294,265 11.5% 2.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 206,826 8.1% 4.3%
Built in 2020 or later 34,933 1.4% 70.5%
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.

Maryland occupancy rates

Out of the 2,362,928 occupied housing units in Maryland, 67.6% are owner-occupied, while 32.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,362,928
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
765,363
Owner occupied
1,597,565
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 765,363 32.4% 0.6%
Owner occupied 1,597,565 67.6% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
7.7%
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.

Maryland housing costs

Housing costs in Maryland come to a median of $1,798 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,705.

Median housing costs per month
$1,798/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 Maryland
$1,705/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 Maryland

Maryland education at a glance

About 30% of the population in Maryland went to high school, while 19.1% pursued college studies. Another 6.7% earned an associate degree and 21.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 181,016 3.8% 1.2%
High school diploma 1,450,539 30% -0.2%
College diploma 922,634 19.1% -0.9%
Associate degree 323,028 6.7% 0.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,051,878 21.8% 1.4%
Graduate degree 900,416 18.6% 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 Maryland

How much people earn in Maryland

The average annual household income in Maryland was $136,642 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $103,678, reflecting a +2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Maryland
$136,642/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Maryland
$103,678/year
2.0% year-over-year change

Maryland income by age

In Maryland, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $108,656. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $126,705 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,106, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $74,992 in earnings. Overall, 90.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,106 -2.3%
25 - 44 $108,656 2.5%
45 - 64 $126,705 2.9%
Over 65 $74,992 1.7%
Above poverty level
5,444,918
Below poverty level
565,925
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,444,918 90.6% 0.5%
Below poverty level 565,925 9.4% 1.5%

Employment in Maryland

Workforce and job types in Maryland

The job market in Maryland is powered by 3,151,451 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 58.1% are employed by private companies, and 22.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,151,451
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
2,628,898
Blue collar
522,553
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,628,898 83.4% 0.7%
Blue collar 522,553 16.6% -0.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
58.1%
Governmental workers
22.5%
Not for profit companies
10.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 279,871 8.9% 0.4%
Private companies 1,832,127 58.1% 0.2%
Governmental workers 710,253 22.5% 0.8%
Not for profit companies 329,200 10.4% 2.5%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
-0.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Maryland stands at 4.9%, 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 Maryland

How people get around in Maryland

In Maryland, the average commute time is 31 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 72.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% 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
-1.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,265,958 72.4% -1.5%
Taxicab 14,954 0.5% 9.6%
Bus or trolleybus 68,918 2.2% -11.1%
Subway or elevated 49,814 1.6% N/A
Railroad 10,207 0.3% -17.1%
Ferryboat 311 0% -19.4%
Motorcycle 2,149 0.1% 4.8%
Bicycle 8,406 0.3% 3.5%
Walk 63,417 2% 4.1%
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.

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Maryland demographics 

What is the total population of Maryland?

Maryland has a total population of 6,206,011 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Maryland?

The gender ratio in Maryland is as follows:
  • 48.7% males (3,019,876 residents)
  • 51.3% females (3,186,135 residents)

What is the median age in Maryland?

The median age in Maryland is 39.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Maryland?

The age distribution in Maryland is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (1,133,154 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (771,522 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.8% (1,660,212 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.9% (1,607,382 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.7% (1,033,741 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Maryland?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Maryland is as follows:
  • White: 48.2% (2,988,904 residents)
  • Black or African American: 29.4% (1,822,132 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (25,736 residents)
  • Asian: 6.6% (408,580 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (2,708 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.5% (528,261 residents)
  • Other: 6.9% (429,690 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.6% of the population in Maryland.

How many housing units are there in Maryland?

There are 2,560,784 housing units in Maryland, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Maryland has a total of 2,362,928 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Maryland?

Maryland has a median household income of $103,678, representing a +2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.1% in Maryland, with a workforce of 3,151,451 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.4% (2,628,898 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.6% (522,553 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (279,871 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.1% (1,832,127 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.5% (710,253 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.4% (329,200 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