Cumberland, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,804
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$48,162/yr
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,610
2.5% year-over-year change

Cumberland population

How many people live in Cumberland

Cumberland is home to 18,804 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.5% of Cumberland locals are male, and 52.5% are female.

Total population
18,804
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.5%
8,932
Female
52.5%
9,872
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,932 47.5% -2.3%
Female 9,872 52.5% 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 Cumberland is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.5% are children under 15, then 14.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.2% of the population, while another 23.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.5%
15 to 24
14.8%
25 to 44
23.2%
45 to 64
23.3%
Over 65
23.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,913 15.5% -0.9%
15 to 24 2,793 14.8% -3.8%
25 to 44 4,353 23.2% 0.0%
45 to 64 4,375 23.3% 2.7%
Over 65 4,370 23.2% -2.5%
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 Cumberland, 97.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.2% of locals are Caucasian, 4.1% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,275 97.2% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 457 2.4% 11.5%
Non-citizens 72 0.4% -26.5%
Racial breakdown
White
86.2%
Black or African American
4.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7.8%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 16,210 86.2%
Black or African American 770 4.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 31 0.2%
Asian 128 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 26 0.1%
Two or more races 1,468 7.8%
Other 171 0.9%

Households in Cumberland

A peek inside Cumberland households

Cumberland has 8,405 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.4% are families, while the remaining 48.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,405
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,086
Family households
4,319
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,086 48.6% 1.4%
Family households 4,319 51.4% -0.7%
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 Cumberland

The housing landscape of Cumberland

Cumberland's housing consists of 10,610 units, with 58.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
10,610
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,248 58.9%
1 unit, attached 935 8.8%
2 units 994 9.4%
3 or 4 units 640 6%
5 to 9 units 662 6.2%
10 to 19 units 180 1.7%
20 to 49 units 133 1.2%
50 or more units 814 7.7%
Mobile home 4 0%
Homes built since 2020
35
0.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cumberland

In Cumberland, the median construction year is 1943. About 48.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,111 48.2% 3.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 610 5.8% -18.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,419 13.4% -3.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,228 11.6% 10.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 856 8.1% -7.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 633 6% 30.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 295 2.8% 0.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 265 2.5% 21.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 158 1.5% 21.5%
Built in 2020 or later 35 0.3% 0.0%
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.

Cumberland occupancy rates

Out of the 8,405 occupied housing units in Cumberland, 60% are owner-occupied, while 40% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 20.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,405
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,363
Owner occupied
5,042
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,363 40% -3.9%
Owner occupied 5,042 60% 3.3%
Unoccupied housing units
20.8%
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.

Cumberland housing costs

Housing costs in Cumberland come to a median of $799 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $741.

Median housing costs per month
$799/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 Cumberland
$741/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 Cumberland

Cumberland education at a glance

About 45.1% of the population in Cumberland went to high school, while 23.4% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 11.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 365 2.4% -14.1%
High school diploma 6,800 45.1% -1.9%
College diploma 3,526 23.4% 2.0%
Associate degree 1,365 9% -5.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,695 11.2% 1.5%
Graduate degree 1,340 8.9% 2.7%
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 Cumberland

How much people earn in Cumberland

The average annual household income in Cumberland was $68,164 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $48,162, reflecting a +0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cumberland
$68,164/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cumberland
$48,162/year
0.7% year-over-year change

Cumberland income by age

In Cumberland, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $48,773. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $62,846 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,167, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,553 in earnings. Overall, 75.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,167 -15.9%
25 - 44 $48,773 -7.4%
45 - 64 $62,846 4.3%
Over 65 $38,553 2.6%
Above poverty level
13,447
Below poverty level
4,432
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,447 75.2% -2.0%
Below poverty level 4,432 24.8% 5.0%

Average renter income in Cumberland

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Cumberland, their median household income was $23,507 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$23,507
Rent-to-income ratio
37.8%
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 Cumberland

Workforce and job types in Cumberland

The job market in Cumberland is powered by 7,235 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.7% run their own businesses, 58.3% are employed by private companies, and 18.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,235
0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
5,920
Blue collar
1,315
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,920 81.8% 0.2%
Blue collar 1,315 18.2% 0.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9.7%
Private companies
58.3%
Governmental workers
18.8%
Not for profit companies
13.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 703 9.7% 18.8%
Private companies 4,215 58.3% -3.7%
Governmental workers 1,364 18.8% 1.9%
Not for profit companies 953 13.2% 4.3%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
-18.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cumberland stands at 6.3%, 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 Cumberland

How people get around in Cumberland

In Cumberland, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
-3.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,001 84.7% -0.2%
Taxicab 7 0.1% -69.6%
Bus or trolleybus 40 0.6% -14.9%
Motorcycle 23 0.3% 53.3%
Walk 243 3.4% -2.8%
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 Cumberland by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
21502 41,015 16,268 $60,725 $76,213

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FAQs about Cumberland demographics 

What is the total population of Cumberland?

Cumberland has a total population of 18,804 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cumberland?

The gender ratio in Cumberland is as follows:
  • 47.5% males (8,932 residents)
  • 52.5% females (9,872 residents)

What is the median age in Cumberland?

The median age in Cumberland is 41.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Cumberland?

The age distribution in Cumberland is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.5% (2,913 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.8% (2,793 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.2% (4,353 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.3% (4,375 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.2% (4,370 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cumberland?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cumberland is as follows:
  • White: 86.2% (16,210 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.1% (770 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (31 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (128 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (26 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.8% (1,468 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (171 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.2% of the population in Cumberland.

How many housing units are there in Cumberland?

There are 10,610 housing units in Cumberland, reflecting a +2.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cumberland has a total of 8,405 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cumberland?

Cumberland has a median household income of $48,162, representing a +0.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.7% in Cumberland, with a workforce of 7,235 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.8% (5,920 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.2% (1,315 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.7% (703 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.3% (4,215 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.8% (1,364 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.2% (953 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