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

Total population
19,346
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$80,147/yr
7.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,363
0.4% year-over-year change

Kent County population

How many people live in Kent County

Kent County is home to 19,346 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.3% of Kent County locals are male, and 52.7% are female.

Total population
19,346
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.3%
9,147
Female
52.7%
10,199
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,147 47.3% -1.7%
Female 10,199 52.7% 2.4%
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 Kent County is 49, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.2% are children under 15, then 15.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.1% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 27.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
48.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.2%
15 to 24
15.5%
25 to 44
19.1%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
27.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,358 12.2% 0.1%
15 to 24 3,004 15.5% 0.9%
25 to 44 3,700 19.1% -0.3%
45 to 64 4,979 25.7% -1.3%
Over 65 5,305 27.4% 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 Kent County, 95.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77% of locals are Caucasian, 14% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.3%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,470 95.5% 1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 637 3.3% -15.3%
Non-citizens 239 1.2% -24.4%
Racial breakdown
White
77%
Black or African American
14%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.3%
Other
3.4%
Value Percent
White 14,903 77%
Black or African American 2,707 14%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2 0%
Asian 242 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 829 4.3%
Other 662 3.4%

Households in Kent County

A peek inside Kent County households

Kent County has 8,493 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.3% are families, while the remaining 40.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,493
-0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,453
Family households
5,040
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,453 40.7% -0.9%
Family households 5,040 59.3% -0.1%
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 Kent County

The housing landscape of Kent County

Kent County's housing consists of 10,363 units, with 81% 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 2.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,363
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,395 81%
1 unit, attached 369 3.6%
2 units 97 0.9%
3 or 4 units 329 3.2%
5 to 9 units 381 3.7%
10 to 19 units 193 1.9%
20 to 49 units 133 1.3%
50 or more units 191 1.8%
Mobile home 267 2.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
66
247.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kent County

In Kent County, the median construction year is 1978. About 19.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,032 19.6% -0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 468 4.5% -8.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 833 8% -6.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,019 9.8% 1.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,048 10.1% 3.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,474 14.2% 2.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,283 12.4% 1.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,592 15.4% 3.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 548 5.3% -7.3%
Built in 2020 or later 66 0.6% 247.4%
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.

Kent County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,493 occupied housing units in Kent County, 72.5% are owner-occupied, while 27.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,493
-0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,332
Owner occupied
6,161
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,332 27.5% -2.1%
Owner occupied 6,161 72.5% 0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
18.0%
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.

Kent County housing costs

Housing costs in Kent County come to a median of $1,291 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,209.

Median housing costs per month
$1,291/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 Kent County
$1,209/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 Kent County

Kent County education at a glance

About 36.7% of the population in Kent County went to high school, while 21.1% pursued college studies. Another 6.1% earned an associate degree and 19% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 260 1.6% -21.0%
High school diploma 6,003 36.7% -3.8%
College diploma 3,445 21.1% 3.3%
Associate degree 996 6.1% 10.1%
Bachelor's degree 3,116 19% 6.4%
Graduate degree 2,537 15.5% 0.9%
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 Kent County

How much people earn in Kent County

The average annual household income in Kent County was $106,060 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $80,147, reflecting a +7.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kent County
$106,060/year
5.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kent County
$80,147/year
7.7% year-over-year change

Kent County income by age

In Kent County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $82,140. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $93,936 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,736, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $71,541 in earnings. Overall, 90.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,736 1.6%
25 - 44 $82,140 4.3%
45 - 64 $93,936 14.3%
Over 65 $71,541 7.7%
Above poverty level
15,988
Below poverty level
1,709
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,988 90.3% 0.3%
Below poverty level 1,709 9.7% 0.7%

Employment in Kent County

Workforce and job types in Kent County

The job market in Kent County is powered by 9,735 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.9% run their own businesses, 59.6% are employed by private companies, and 14.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,735
1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
7,555
Blue collar
2,180
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,555 77.6% 3.3%
Blue collar 2,180 22.4% -3.6%
Employer type
Self employees
13.9%
Private companies
59.6%
Governmental workers
14.5%
Not for profit companies
12%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,353 13.9% -6.3%
Private companies 5,803 59.6% 4.7%
Governmental workers 1,411 14.5% -11.9%
Not for profit companies 1,168 12% 18.6%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
8.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kent County stands at 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 Kent County

How people get around in Kent County

Commuting methods vary: 76.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 10.2% 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 7,227 76.5% -1.0%
Bus or trolleybus 34 0.4% -40.4%
Railroad 7 0.1% 16.7%
Motorcycle 2 0% -33.3%
Bicycle 6 0.1% -14.3%
Walk 969 10.2% 17.7%
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 Kent County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
21610 391 132 $86,250 $96,727
21620 13,810 5,700 $80,530 $107,106
21635 2,085 940 $101,618 $112,802
21645 959 479 $86,118 $141,751
21650 265 75 $0 $103,207
21651 2,290 884 $74,063 $84,544
21661 2,613 1,311 $90,492 $105,929
21667 291 160 $64,122 $87,564
21678 1,658 789 $71,023 $99,586

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FAQs about Kent County demographics 

What is the total population of Kent County?

Kent County has a total population of 19,346 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kent County?

The gender ratio in Kent County is as follows:
  • 47.3% males (9,147 residents)
  • 52.7% females (10,199 residents)

What is the median age in Kent County?

The median age in Kent County is 48.6.

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

The age distribution in Kent County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.2% (2,358 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.5% (3,004 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.1% (3,700 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (4,979 residents)
  • Over 65: 27.4% (5,305 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kent County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kent County is as follows:
  • White: 77% (14,903 residents)
  • Black or African American: 14% (2,707 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (2 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (242 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.3% (829 residents)
  • Other: 3.4% (662 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.5% of the population in Kent County.

How many housing units are there in Kent County?

There are 10,363 housing units in Kent 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 Kent County and what is the average household size?

Kent County has a total of 8,493 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kent County?

Kent County has a median household income of $80,147, representing a +7.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97% in Kent County, with a workforce of 9,735 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.6% (7,555 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.4% (2,180 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.9% (1,353 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.6% (5,803 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.5% (1,411 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12% (1,168 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