West Baltimore, Central Maryland, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
325,586
-1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$91,437/yr
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
133,807
-0.4% year-over-year change

West Baltimore population

How many people live in West Baltimore

West Baltimore is home to 325,586 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.8% of West Baltimore locals are male, and 53.2% are female.

Total population
325,586
-1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.8%
152,545
Female
53.2%
173,041
Value Percent YoY change
Male 152,545 46.8% -1.9%
Female 173,041 53.2% -0.8%
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 West Baltimore is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.7% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
37
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
25.7%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
18.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 59,078 18.2% -2.4%
15 to 24 40,170 12.3% -2.6%
25 to 44 83,760 25.7% -1.4%
45 to 64 83,207 25.6% -1.7%
Over 65 59,371 18.2% 1.6%
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 West Baltimore, 83.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 36.2% of locals are Caucasian, 47% are African American and 5.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
83.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.6%
Non-citizens
6.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 270,588 83.1% -1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 34,602 10.6% 3.1%
Non-citizens 20,396 6.3% -4.7%
Racial breakdown
White
36.2%
Black or African American
47%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
5.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6%
Other
4.7%
Value Percent
White 117,970 36.2%
Black or African American 152,877 47%
American Indian and Alaska Native 504 0.2%
Asian 18,974 5.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 192 0.1%
Two or more races 19,643 6%
Other 15,426 4.7%

Households in West Baltimore

A peek inside West Baltimore households

West Baltimore has 127,583 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.5% are families, while the remaining 38.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
127,583
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
49,154
Family households
78,429
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 49,154 38.5% 0.3%
Family households 78,429 61.5% -0.5%
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 West Baltimore

The housing landscape of West Baltimore

West Baltimore's housing consists of 133,807 units, with 44.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 23.3% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
133,807
-0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 59,872 44.8%
1 unit, attached 31,185 23.3%
2 units 2,253 1.7%
3 or 4 units 2,090 1.6%
5 to 9 units 11,539 8.6%
10 to 19 units 14,860 11.1%
20 to 49 units 3,953 3%
50 or more units 7,758 5.8%
Mobile home 243 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 53 0%
Homes built since 2020
507
49.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Baltimore

In West Baltimore, the median construction year is 1971. About 9% 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, 8.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 11,970 9% -2.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,691 4.2% -7.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 21,646 16.2% -4.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 19,592 14.6% 2.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 18,337 13.7% 5.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 17,657 13.2% -2.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 20,112 15% -1.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 11,617 8.7% 4.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,678 5% 3.4%
Built in 2020 or later 507 0.4% 49.1%
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.

West Baltimore occupancy rates

Out of the 127,583 occupied housing units in West Baltimore, 63.3% are owner-occupied, while 36.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
127,583
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
46,783
Owner occupied
80,800
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 46,783 36.7% -0.5%
Owner occupied 80,800 63.3% 0.0%
Unoccupied housing units
4.7%
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.

West Baltimore housing costs

Housing costs in West Baltimore come to a median of $1,662 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,556.

Median housing costs per month
$1,662/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 West Baltimore
$1,556/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 West Baltimore

West Baltimore education at a glance

About 28.8% of the population in West Baltimore went to high school, while 20.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.3% earned an associate degree and 21.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 8,355 3.3% -1.1%
High school diploma 73,128 28.8% -2.3%
College diploma 52,922 20.8% -4.7%
Associate degree 18,626 7.3% 0.2%
Bachelor's degree 55,247 21.7% 0.9%
Graduate degree 45,931 18.1% 3.3%
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 West Baltimore

How much people earn in West Baltimore

The average annual household income in West Baltimore was $127,654 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $91,437, reflecting a +0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Baltimore
$127,654/year
2.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Baltimore
$91,437/year
0.7% year-over-year change

West Baltimore income by age

In West Baltimore, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $99,208. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $118,394 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,820, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,894 in earnings. Overall, 90.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,820 -16.9%
25 - 44 $99,208 2.8%
45 - 64 $118,394 2.6%
Over 65 $66,894 0.1%
Above poverty level
283,977
Below poverty level
30,143
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 283,977 90.4% -1.0%
Below poverty level 30,143 9.6% -3.4%

Employment in West Baltimore

Workforce and job types in West Baltimore

84% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8% run their own businesses, 58.7% are employed by private companies, and 21.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
137,642
Blue collar
26,272
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 137,642 84% -0.4%
Blue collar 26,272 16% -4.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8%
Private companies
58.7%
Governmental workers
21.6%
Not for profit companies
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 13,172 8% -1.3%
Private companies 96,209 58.7% -1.0%
Governmental workers 35,402 21.6% -2.4%
Not for profit companies 19,131 11.7% 1.3%

Transportation in West Baltimore

How people get around in West Baltimore

In West Baltimore, the average commute time is 139 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 93.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
139 min
-26.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 119,863 93.7% -4.4%
Taxicab 844 0.7% 10.3%
Bus or trolleybus 3,348 2.6% -13.3%
Railroad 876 0.7% 5.8%
Motorcycle 21 0% -53.3%
Bicycle 106 0.1% -10.2%
Walk 2,815 2.2% 3.6%
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 West Baltimore by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
21071 404 130 $213,500 $193,352
21117 62,816 25,193 $101,831 $128,454
21133 31,398 12,204 $80,480 $106,521
21136 32,088 13,048 $118,500 $145,110
21153 456 223 $220,179 $307,735
21155 3,313 1,032 $123,158 $153,652
21207 47,099 18,976 $67,060 $85,107
21208 37,276 15,735 $90,131 $132,720
21209 30,126 11,621 $91,437 $136,546
21227 34,907 13,396 $85,986 $99,830

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FAQs about West Baltimore demographics 

What is the total population of West Baltimore?

West Baltimore has a total population of 325,586 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 -1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Baltimore?

The gender ratio in West Baltimore is as follows:
  • 46.8% males (152,545 residents)
  • 53.2% females (173,041 residents)

What is the median age in West Baltimore?

The median age in West Baltimore is 37.

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

The age distribution in West Baltimore is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (59,078 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (40,170 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.7% (83,760 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (83,207 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.2% (59,371 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of West Baltimore?

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Baltimore is as follows:
  • White: 36.2% (117,970 residents)
  • Black or African American: 47% (152,877 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (504 residents)
  • Asian: 5.8% (18,974 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (192 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6% (19,643 residents)
  • Other: 4.7% (15,426 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 83.1% of the population in West Baltimore.

How many housing units are there in West Baltimore?

There are 133,807 housing units in West Baltimore, 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 West Baltimore and what is the average household size?

West Baltimore has a total of 127,583 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Baltimore?

West Baltimore has a median household income of $91,437, representing a +0.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for West Baltimore?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84% (137,642 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16% (26,272 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8% (13,172 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.7% (96,209 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.6% (35,402 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.7% (19,131 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