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

Total population
28,615
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$67,688/yr
-1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
18,642
0.4% year-over-year change

Garrett County population

How many people live in Garrett County

Garrett County is home to 28,615 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Garrett County locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
28,615
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
14,431
Female
49.6%
14,184
Value Percent YoY change
Male 14,431 50.4% -0.4%
Female 14,184 49.6% -0.3%
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 Garrett County is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.3% are children under 15, then 10.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.2% of the population, while another 28.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
48.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.3%
15 to 24
10.6%
25 to 44
22.2%
45 to 64
28.7%
Over 65
24.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,082 14.3% -1.0%
15 to 24 3,024 10.6% -2.2%
25 to 44 6,360 22.2% 0.2%
45 to 64 8,224 28.7% -1.6%
Over 65 6,925 24.2% 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 Garrett County, 98% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 28,041 98% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 393 1.4% 4.2%
Non-citizens 181 0.6% -13.0%
Racial breakdown
White
95.1%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.8%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 27,216 95.1%
Black or African American 175 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 68 0.2%
Asian 137 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 806 2.8%
Other 212 0.7%

Households in Garrett County

A peek inside Garrett County households

Garrett County has 12,578 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.6% are families, while the remaining 34.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,578
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,331
Family households
8,247
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,331 34.4% -0.4%
Family households 8,247 65.6% 0.4%
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 Garrett County

The housing landscape of Garrett County

Garrett County's housing consists of 18,642 units, with 80% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.1% 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 8.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
18,642
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,922 80%
1 unit, attached 772 4.1%
2 units 77 0.4%
3 or 4 units 270 1.4%
5 to 9 units 237 1.3%
10 to 19 units 166 0.9%
20 to 49 units 462 2.5%
50 or more units 39 0.2%
Mobile home 1,667 8.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 30 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
143
333.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Garrett County

In Garrett County, the median construction year is 1982. About 12.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,288 12.3% -6.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 600 3.2% 4.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,123 6% -5.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,576 8.4% -0.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,264 17.5% 6.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,847 15.3% 1.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,981 16% -3.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,661 14.3% 1.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,159 6.2% -1.2%
Built in 2020 or later 143 0.8% 333.3%
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.

Garrett County occupancy rates

Out of the 12,578 occupied housing units in Garrett County, 79.7% are owner-occupied, while 20.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 32.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,578
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,551
Owner occupied
10,027
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,551 20.3% 7.0%
Owner occupied 10,027 79.7% -1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
32.5%
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.

Garrett County housing costs

Housing costs in Garrett County come to a median of $854 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $765.

Median housing costs per month
$854/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 Garrett County
$765/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 Garrett County

Garrett County education at a glance

About 45.3% of the population in Garrett County went to high school, while 17.8% pursued college studies. Another 9.4% earned an associate degree and 12.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 788 3.4% 17.8%
High school diploma 10,672 45.3% -2.6%
College diploma 4,183 17.8% -4.7%
Associate degree 2,217 9.4% 1.1%
Bachelor's degree 3,016 12.8% 2.8%
Graduate degree 2,664 11.3% 9.8%
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 Garrett County

How much people earn in Garrett County

The average annual household income in Garrett County was $97,358 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $67,688, reflecting a -2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Garrett County
$97,358/year
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Garrett County
$67,688/year
-1.9% year-over-year change

Garrett County income by age

In Garrett County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $91,552. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $72,971 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,845, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,846 in earnings. Overall, 88.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,845 -1.0%
25 - 44 $91,552 -1.8%
45 - 64 $72,971 1.4%
Over 65 $48,846 -3.9%
Above poverty level
24,609
Below poverty level
3,142
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 24,609 88.7% -0.4%
Below poverty level 3,142 11.3% 2.5%

Employment in Garrett County

Workforce and job types in Garrett County

The job market in Garrett County is powered by 13,430 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.8% run their own businesses, 59.4% are employed by private companies, and 20.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,430
-1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
9,963
Blue collar
3,467
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,963 74.2% 1.0%
Blue collar 3,467 25.8% -6.4%
Employer type
Self employees
11.8%
Private companies
59.4%
Governmental workers
20.2%
Not for profit companies
8.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,592 11.8% 5.1%
Private companies 7,974 59.4% -2.6%
Governmental workers 2,717 20.2% 1.5%
Not for profit companies 1,147 8.5% -3.8%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
-7.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Garrett County stands at 4.4%, 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 Garrett County

How people get around in Garrett County

Commuting methods vary: 83.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,959 83.4% -4.4%
Bus or trolleybus 128 1% 30.6%
Subway or elevated 11 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 25 0.2% 8.7%
Bicycle 43 0.3% 16.2%
Walk 259 2% 20.5%
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 Garrett County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
21520 1,918 787 $59,852 $111,626
21521 1,400 568 $64,194 $72,198
21523 150 60 $59,063 $58,923
21531 2,487 1,101 $63,750 $73,466
21532 13,647 5,511 $63,690 $79,084
21536 3,833 1,654 $64,205 $78,442
21538 678 343 $61,250 $85,367
21539 1,975 885 $57,708 $65,273
21541 1,335 562 $82,955 $133,709

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FAQs about Garrett County demographics 

What is the total population of Garrett County?

Garrett County has a total population of 28,615 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 Garrett County?

The gender ratio in Garrett County is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (14,431 residents)
  • 49.6% females (14,184 residents)

What is the median age in Garrett County?

The median age in Garrett County is 48.3.

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

The age distribution in Garrett County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.3% (4,082 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.6% (3,024 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.2% (6,360 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.7% (8,224 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.2% (6,925 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Garrett County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Garrett County is as follows:
  • White: 95.1% (27,216 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (175 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (68 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (137 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.8% (806 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (212 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98% of the population in Garrett County.

How many housing units are there in Garrett County?

There are 18,642 housing units in Garrett County, 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 Garrett County and what is the average household size?

Garrett County has a total of 12,578 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Garrett County?

Garrett County has a median household income of $67,688, representing a -1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Garrett County, with a workforce of 13,430 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.2% (9,963 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.8% (3,467 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.8% (1,592 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.4% (7,974 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.2% (2,717 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.5% (1,147 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