Chestertown, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,594
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,346/yr
15.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,465
3.4% year-over-year change

Chestertown population

How many people live in Chestertown

Chestertown is home to 5,594 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 43.8% of Chestertown locals are male, and 56.2% are female.

Total population
5,594
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
43.8%
2,451
Female
56.2%
3,143
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,451 43.8% 2.9%
Female 3,143 56.2% -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 Chestertown is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.1% are children under 15, then 31.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 16.9% of the population, while another 14% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 26.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.1%
15 to 24
31.8%
25 to 44
16.9%
45 to 64
14%
Over 65
26.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 622 11.1% -2.5%
15 to 24 1,780 31.8% 0.7%
25 to 44 944 16.9% 12.9%
45 to 64 786 14% -17.5%
Over 65 1,462 26.1% 8.0%
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 Chestertown, 94.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 71% of locals are Caucasian, 22.2% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,301 94.8% 2.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 226 4% 0.0%
Non-citizens 67 1.2% -45.5%
Racial breakdown
White
71%
Black or African American
22.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.1%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 3,973 71%
Black or African American 1,239 22.2%
Asian 148 2.6%
Two or more races 175 3.1%
Other 59 1%

Households in Chestertown

A peek inside Chestertown households

Chestertown has 2,195 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 48.8% are families, while the remaining 51.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,195
-2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,124
Family households
1,071
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,124 51.2% -4.1%
Family households 1,071 48.8% 0.2%
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 Chestertown

The housing landscape of Chestertown

Chestertown's housing consists of 2,465 units, with 55.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.5% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
2,465
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,377 55.9%
1 unit, attached 184 7.5%
3 or 4 units 298 12.1%
5 to 9 units 247 10%
10 to 19 units 128 5.2%
20 to 49 units 44 1.8%
50 or more units 187 7.6%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Chestertown

In Chestertown, the median construction year is 1982. About 21.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 539 21.9% 26.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 55 2.2% 1.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 31 1.3% -52.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 346 14% 57.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 177 7.2% -23.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 491 19.9% 7.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 301 12.2% -9.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 338 13.7% -14.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 187 7.6% -7.4%
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.

Chestertown occupancy rates

Out of the 2,195 occupied housing units in Chestertown, 51.8% are owner-occupied, while 48.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,195
-2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,059
Owner occupied
1,136
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,059 48.2% -8.9%
Owner occupied 1,136 51.8% 5.4%
Unoccupied housing units
11.0%
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.

Chestertown housing costs

Housing costs in Chestertown come to a median of $1,319 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,206.

Median housing costs per month
$1,319/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 Chestertown
$1,206/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 Chestertown

Chestertown education at a glance

About 24.3% of the population in Chestertown went to high school, while 31% pursued college studies. Another 4.2% earned an associate degree and 21.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 116 2.5% 3.6%
High school diploma 1,145 24.3% -12.0%
College diploma 1,460 31% -5.8%
Associate degree 200 4.2% 9.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,004 21.3% 31.4%
Graduate degree 783 16.6% 4.5%
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 Chestertown

How much people earn in Chestertown

The average annual household income in Chestertown was $82,201 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,346, reflecting a +15.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Chestertown
$82,201/year
7.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Chestertown
$54,346/year
15.5% year-over-year change

Chestertown income by age

In Chestertown, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,157. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $53,875 overall. Overall, 87.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $81,157 4.7%
45 - 64 $53,875 14.1%
Over 65 $56,250 8.5%
Above poverty level
3,567
Below poverty level
489
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,567 87.9% 4.4%
Below poverty level 489 12.1% -24.5%

Average renter income in Chestertown

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Chestertown, their median household income was $32,103 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 45.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$32,103
Rent-to-income ratio
45.1%
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 Chestertown

Workforce and job types in Chestertown

The job market in Chestertown is powered by 2,465 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 88.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 53% are employed by private companies, and 15.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,465
7.4% year-over-year change
White collar
2,178
Blue collar
287
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,178 88.4% 11.4%
Blue collar 287 11.6% -15.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
53%
Governmental workers
15.5%
Not for profit companies
22.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 219 8.9% 11.2%
Private companies 1,306 53% 6.9%
Governmental workers 381 15.5% -13.2%
Not for profit companies 559 22.7% 27.9%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
2.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Chestertown stands at 3.8%, 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 Chestertown

How people get around in Chestertown

In Chestertown, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 58.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 24.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,396 58.8% -2.0%
Walk 590 24.8% 17.8%
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 Chestertown by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
21620 13,810 5,700 $80,530 $107,106

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FAQs about Chestertown demographics 

What is the total population of Chestertown?

Chestertown has a total population of 5,594 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 Chestertown?

The gender ratio in Chestertown is as follows:
  • 43.8% males (2,451 residents)
  • 56.2% females (3,143 residents)

What is the median age in Chestertown?

The median age in Chestertown is 32.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Chestertown?

The age distribution in Chestertown is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.1% (622 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 31.8% (1,780 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 16.9% (944 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 14% (786 residents)
  • Over 65: 26.1% (1,462 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Chestertown?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Chestertown is as follows:
  • White: 71% (3,973 residents)
  • Black or African American: 22.2% (1,239 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (148 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.1% (175 residents)
  • Other: 1% (59 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.8% of the population in Chestertown.

How many housing units are there in Chestertown?

There are 2,465 housing units in Chestertown, reflecting a +3.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Chestertown has a total of 2,195 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Chestertown?

Chestertown has a median household income of $54,346, representing a +15.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Chestertown, with a workforce of 2,465 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88.4% (2,178 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11.6% (287 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (219 residents)
  • Private companies: 53% (1,306 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.5% (381 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 22.7% (559 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