Caroline County, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
33,669
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,457/yr
3.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,531
0.1% year-over-year change

Caroline County population

How many people live in Caroline County

Caroline County is home to 33,669 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Caroline County locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
33,669
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
16,547
Female
50.8%
17,122
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,547 49.2% 0.6%
Female 17,122 50.8% 0.9%
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 Caroline County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
17.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,577 19.5% 1.4%
15 to 24 4,085 12.1% -0.0%
25 to 44 8,211 24.4% 0.7%
45 to 64 8,965 26.6% 0.0%
Over 65 5,831 17.3% 2.0%
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 Caroline County, 92.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 73.1% of locals are Caucasian, 12.9% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
4.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 31,291 92.9% 1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 861 2.6% -6.0%
Non-citizens 1,517 4.5% -8.5%
Racial breakdown
White
73.1%
Black or African American
12.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.1%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.5%
Other
3.7%
Value Percent
White 24,605 73.1%
Black or African American 4,340 12.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 358 1.1%
Asian 251 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 7 0%
Two or more races 2,863 8.5%
Other 1,245 3.7%

Households in Caroline County

A peek inside Caroline County households

Caroline County has 12,495 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.6% are families, while the remaining 33.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,495
2.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,176
Family households
8,319
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,176 33.4% 6.8%
Family households 8,319 66.6% 0.6%
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 Caroline County

The housing landscape of Caroline County

Caroline County's housing consists of 13,531 units, with 77.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.6% 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 7.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,531
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,481 77.5%
1 unit, attached 482 3.6%
2 units 410 3%
3 or 4 units 458 3.4%
5 to 9 units 534 4%
10 to 19 units 98 0.7%
20 to 49 units 55 0.4%
50 or more units 13 0.1%
Mobile home 1,000 7.4%
Homes built since 2020
148
-9.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Caroline County

In Caroline County, the median construction year is 1981. About 16.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,276 16.8% 7.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 561 4.2% 8.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,134 8.4% 13.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 909 6.7% -4.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,589 11.7% -20.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,006 14.8% -3.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,388 17.6% 6.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,654 12.2% 2.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 866 6.4% 3.2%
Built in 2020 or later 148 1.1% -9.8%
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.

Caroline County occupancy rates

Out of the 12,495 occupied housing units in Caroline County, 71.8% are owner-occupied, while 28.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,495
2.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,517
Owner occupied
8,978
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,517 28.2% 2.6%
Owner occupied 8,978 71.8% 2.6%
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.

Caroline County housing costs

Housing costs in Caroline County come to a median of $1,248 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,105.

Median housing costs per month
$1,248/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 Caroline County
$1,105/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 Caroline County

Caroline County education at a glance

About 51.9% of the population in Caroline County went to high school, while 21% pursued college studies. Another 6.6% earned an associate degree and 9.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,401 5.5% 4.5%
High school diploma 13,293 51.9% 3.8%
College diploma 5,371 21% -0.7%
Associate degree 1,677 6.6% -2.8%
Bachelor's degree 2,320 9.1% -6.3%
Graduate degree 1,551 6.1% -9.6%
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 Caroline County

How much people earn in Caroline County

The average annual household income in Caroline County was $87,383 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. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,457, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Caroline County
$87,383/year
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Caroline County
$68,457/year
3.1% year-over-year change

Caroline County income by age

In Caroline County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,946. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,083 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $55,172, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,906 in earnings. Overall, 87.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $55,172 3.5%
25 - 44 $68,946 5.0%
45 - 64 $87,083 4.6%
Over 65 $47,906 -0.8%
Above poverty level
28,827
Below poverty level
3,971
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 28,827 87.9% 1.0%
Below poverty level 3,971 12.1% 0.3%

Employment in Caroline County

Workforce and job types in Caroline County

The job market in Caroline County is powered by 15,959 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.7% run their own businesses, 64.6% are employed by private companies, and 17.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,959
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
11,095
Blue collar
4,864
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,095 69.5% -0.7%
Blue collar 4,864 30.5% 5.4%
Employer type
Self employees
9.7%
Private companies
64.6%
Governmental workers
17.2%
Not for profit companies
8.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,543 9.7% -11.4%
Private companies 10,318 64.6% 6.8%
Governmental workers 2,749 17.2% -2.7%
Not for profit companies 1,349 8.4% -13.9%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
7.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Caroline County stands at 5.7%, 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 Caroline County

How people get around in Caroline County

In Caroline County, the average commute time is 33 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
33 min
7.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 14,001 89.2% 2.4%
Taxicab 12 0.1% -25.0%
Bus or trolleybus 42 0.3% -43.2%
Motorcycle 12 0.1% 71.4%
Walk 177 1.1% -56.2%
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 Caroline County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
21629 10,252 3,688 $73,956 $96,041
21632 6,436 2,656 $61,316 $71,685
21636 1,097 422 $73,426 $79,143
21639 4,682 1,743 $62,772 $83,944
21640 1,163 511 $53,558 $69,291
21641 127 56 $66,875 $68,939
21649 1,890 546 $68,542 $84,495
21655 5,053 1,862 $90,385 $111,443
21660 4,132 1,457 $80,469 $91,867

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FAQs about Caroline County demographics 

What is the total population of Caroline County?

Caroline County has a total population of 33,669 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Caroline County?

The gender ratio in Caroline County is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (16,547 residents)
  • 50.8% females (17,122 residents)

What is the median age in Caroline County?

The median age in Caroline County is 39.9.

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

The age distribution in Caroline County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (6,577 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (4,085 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (8,211 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (8,965 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.3% (5,831 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Caroline County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Caroline County is as follows:
  • White: 73.1% (24,605 residents)
  • Black or African American: 12.9% (4,340 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.1% (358 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (251 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (7 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.5% (2,863 residents)
  • Other: 3.7% (1,245 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.9% of the population in Caroline County.

How many housing units are there in Caroline County?

There are 13,531 housing units in Caroline County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Caroline County has a total of 12,495 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Caroline County?

Caroline County has a median household income of $68,457, representing a +3.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.3% in Caroline County, with a workforce of 15,959 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.5% (11,095 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.5% (4,864 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.7% (1,543 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.6% (10,318 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.2% (2,749 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.4% (1,349 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