Baltimore City, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
539,799
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,650/yr
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
273,689
0.4% year-over-year change

Baltimore City population

How many people live in Baltimore City

Baltimore City is home to 539,799 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.4% of Baltimore City locals are male, and 53.6% are female.

Total population
539,799
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.4%
250,364
Female
53.6%
289,435
Value Percent YoY change
Male 250,364 46.4% -0.9%
Female 289,435 53.6% 0.2%
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 Baltimore City is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.7% are children under 15, then 12.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.4% of the population, while another 22.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
36
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.7%
15 to 24
12.8%
25 to 44
31.4%
45 to 64
22.8%
Over 65
15.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 95,618 17.7% -1.1%
15 to 24 69,155 12.8% 1.1%
25 to 44 169,398 31.4% 0.1%
45 to 64 123,235 22.8% -2.0%
Over 65 82,393 15.3% 1.2%
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 Baltimore City, 89.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 28.2% of locals are Caucasian, 57.6% are African American and 3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6%
Non-citizens
4.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 481,617 89.2% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 32,222 6% 4.3%
Non-citizens 25,961 4.8% 4.8%
Racial breakdown
White
28.2%
Black or African American
57.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.3%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 152,274 28.2%
Black or African American 310,682 57.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,719 0.5%
Asian 16,457 3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 258 0%
Two or more races 33,921 6.3%
Other 23,488 4.4%

Households in Baltimore City

A peek inside Baltimore City households

Baltimore City has 237,351 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 48% are families, while the remaining 52% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
237,351
2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
123,344
Family households
114,007
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 123,344 52% 2.6%
Family households 114,007 48% 1.7%
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 Baltimore City

The housing landscape of Baltimore City

Baltimore City's housing consists of 273,689 units, with 16.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 49.7% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
273,689
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 44,450 16.2%
1 unit, attached 136,034 49.7%
2 units 11,884 4.3%
3 or 4 units 14,191 5.2%
5 to 9 units 16,275 6%
10 to 19 units 10,682 3.9%
20 to 49 units 7,480 2.7%
50 or more units 31,815 11.6%
Mobile home 741 0.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 137 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,475
109.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Baltimore City

In Baltimore City, the median construction year is 1949. About 40.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 110,013 40.2% 0.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 32,242 11.8% 1.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 40,425 14.8% -5.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 23,900 8.7% -1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 16,035 5.9% -1.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 13,953 5.1% 9.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11,876 4.3% 4.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 11,874 4.3% 1.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 11,897 4.4% 0.7%
Built in 2020 or later 1,475 0.5% 109.8%
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.

Baltimore City occupancy rates

Out of the 237,351 occupied housing units in Baltimore City, 48.5% are owner-occupied, while 51.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
237,351
2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
122,241
Owner occupied
115,110
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 122,241 51.5% 2.6%
Owner occupied 115,110 48.5% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
13.3%
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.

Baltimore City housing costs

Housing costs in Baltimore City come to a median of $1,397 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,335.

Median housing costs per month
$1,397/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 Baltimore City
$1,335/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 Baltimore City

Baltimore City education at a glance

About 37.6% of the population in Baltimore City went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 5.1% earned an associate degree and 17.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 15,733 3.7% -3.9%
High school diploma 160,024 37.6% -1.4%
College diploma 86,018 20.2% -0.5%
Associate degree 21,606 5.1% -0.5%
Bachelor's degree 74,673 17.6% 0.1%
Graduate degree 67,475 15.9% 3.7%
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 Baltimore City

How much people earn in Baltimore City

The average annual household income in Baltimore City was $92,617 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,650, reflecting a -0.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Baltimore City
$92,617/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Baltimore City
$62,650/year
-0.5% year-over-year change

Baltimore City income by age

In Baltimore City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $73,586. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,278 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,897, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,863 in earnings. Overall, 80.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,897 6.5%
25 - 44 $73,586 -1.1%
45 - 64 $71,278 7.2%
Over 65 $44,863 -3.5%
Above poverty level
414,751
Below poverty level
100,559
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 414,751 80.5% 0.2%
Below poverty level 100,559 19.5% -2.5%

Average renter income in Baltimore City

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Baltimore City, their median household income was $40,893 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$40,893
Rent-to-income ratio
39.2%
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 Baltimore City

Workforce and job types in Baltimore City

83.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.5% run their own businesses, 59% are employed by private companies, and 20.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
213,273
Blue collar
43,345
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 213,273 83.1% 1.4%
Blue collar 43,345 16.9% 0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
6.5%
Private companies
59%
Governmental workers
20.6%
Not for profit companies
13.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 16,753 6.5% 5.3%
Private companies 151,303 59% 1.2%
Governmental workers 52,871 20.6% 3.2%
Not for profit companies 35,690 13.9% -2.3%

Transportation in Baltimore City

How people get around in Baltimore City

In Baltimore City, the average commute time is 284 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 79.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
284 min
-12.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 161,130 79.5% 0.0%
Taxicab 2,960 1.5% 51.6%
Bus or trolleybus 20,692 10.2% -6.9%
Railroad 1,781 0.9% -12.9%
Ferryboat 100 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 281 0.1% -2.8%
Bicycle 1,511 0.8% 1.1%
Walk 14,184 7% 1.0%
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 Baltimore City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
21201 18,307 11,345 $45,640 $67,895
21202 20,683 10,861 $59,377 $78,206
21205 13,013 5,111 $43,176 $59,407
21206 48,902 20,480 $64,531 $80,804
21207 47,099 18,976 $67,060 $85,107
21209 30,126 11,621 $91,437 $136,546
21210 14,134 5,202 $112,428 $189,852
21211 14,969 8,192 $82,828 $106,838
21212 33,974 12,971 $96,685 $153,801
21213 28,058 12,009 $51,344 $67,096

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FAQs about Baltimore City demographics 

What is the total population of Baltimore City?

Baltimore City has a total population of 539,799 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Baltimore City?

The gender ratio in Baltimore City is as follows:
  • 46.4% males (250,364 residents)
  • 53.6% females (289,435 residents)

What is the median age in Baltimore City?

The median age in Baltimore City is 36.

What is the age distribution of the population in Baltimore City?

The age distribution in Baltimore City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.7% (95,618 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.8% (69,155 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.4% (169,398 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.8% (123,235 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.3% (82,393 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Baltimore City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Baltimore City is as follows:
  • White: 28.2% (152,274 residents)
  • Black or African American: 57.6% (310,682 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (2,719 residents)
  • Asian: 3% (16,457 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (258 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.3% (33,921 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (23,488 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.2% of the population in Baltimore City.

How many housing units are there in Baltimore City?

There are 273,689 housing units in Baltimore City, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Baltimore City has a total of 237,351 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Baltimore City?

Baltimore City has a median household income of $62,650, representing a -0.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Baltimore City?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.1% (213,273 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.9% (43,345 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.5% (16,753 residents)
  • Private companies: 59% (151,303 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.6% (52,871 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.9% (35,690 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