Middle River, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
31,712
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$78,398/yr
5.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,410
1.6% year-over-year change

Middle River population

How many people live in Middle River

Middle River is home to 31,712 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.8% of Middle River locals are male, and 54.2% are female.

Total population
31,712
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.8%
14,524
Female
54.2%
17,188
Value Percent YoY change
Male 14,524 45.8% 0.2%
Female 17,188 54.2% 0.4%
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 Middle River is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.4% are children under 15, then 12.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29% of the population, while another 25.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.4%
15 to 24
12.7%
25 to 44
29%
45 to 64
25.3%
Over 65
13.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,154 19.4% -3.3%
15 to 24 4,016 12.7% -4.5%
25 to 44 9,206 29% 5.6%
45 to 64 8,032 25.3% -3.3%
Over 65 4,304 13.6% 6.9%
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 Middle River, 83.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 49.1% of locals are Caucasian, 34% are African American and 7.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
83.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.7%
Non-citizens
7.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 26,600 83.9% -1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,771 8.7% 21.1%
Non-citizens 2,341 7.4% 3.7%
Racial breakdown
White
49.1%
Black or African American
34%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
7.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.2%
Other
2.1%
Value Percent
White 15,563 49.1%
Black or African American 10,767 34%
American Indian and Alaska Native 101 0.3%
Asian 2,345 7.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6 0%
Two or more races 2,266 7.2%
Other 664 2.1%

Households in Middle River

A peek inside Middle River households

Middle River has 12,531 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 59.7% are families, while the remaining 40.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,531
4.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
5,045
Family households
7,486
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,045 40.3% 5.9%
Family households 7,486 59.7% 2.7%
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 Middle River

The housing landscape of Middle River

Middle River's housing consists of 13,410 units, with 40.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 30.9% 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 9.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,410
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,467 40.8%
1 unit, attached 4,145 30.9%
2 units 113 0.8%
3 or 4 units 292 2.2%
5 to 9 units 370 2.8%
10 to 19 units 710 5.3%
20 to 49 units 47 0.4%
50 or more units 979 7.3%
Mobile home 1,287 9.6%
Homes built since 2020
290
14.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Middle River

In Middle River, the median construction year is 1982. About 2.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 14.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 324 2.4% 16.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,933 14.4% -2.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,757 13.1% -3.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,173 8.8% 29.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,287 9.6% -0.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,535 11.4% -19.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,385 10.3% -0.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,119 15.8% 9.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,607 12% 12.4%
Built in 2020 or later 290 2.2% 14.2%
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.

Middle River occupancy rates

Out of the 12,531 occupied housing units in Middle River, 66.4% are owner-occupied, while 33.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,531
4.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,207
Owner occupied
8,324
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,207 33.6% 0.3%
Owner occupied 8,324 66.4% 5.9%
Unoccupied housing units
6.6%
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.

Middle River housing costs

Housing costs in Middle River come to a median of $1,512 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,636.

Median housing costs per month
$1,512/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 Middle River
$1,636/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 Middle River

Middle River education at a glance

About 38.1% of the population in Middle River went to high school, while 18.7% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 19.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,149 4.7% -11.3%
High school diploma 9,345 38.1% -6.4%
College diploma 4,575 18.7% -0.8%
Associate degree 1,860 7.6% 2.3%
Bachelor's degree 4,700 19.2% 16.4%
Graduate degree 2,876 11.7% 13.6%
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 Middle River

How much people earn in Middle River

The average annual household income in Middle River was $101,678 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $78,398, reflecting a +5.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Middle River
$101,678/year
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Middle River
$78,398/year
5.7% year-over-year change

Middle River income by age

In Middle River, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,880. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $102,516 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,317, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,278 in earnings. Overall, 85.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,317 -2.2%
25 - 44 $80,880 1.3%
45 - 64 $102,516 10.2%
Over 65 $48,278 0.0%
Above poverty level
26,594
Below poverty level
4,541
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 26,594 85.4% 3.2%
Below poverty level 4,541 14.6% -9.2%

Average renter income in Middle River

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Middle River, their median household income was $50,577 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 38.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$50,577
Rent-to-income ratio
38.8%
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 Middle River

Workforce and job types in Middle River

The job market in Middle River is powered by 16,010 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.6% run their own businesses, 62.8% are employed by private companies, and 17.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,010
2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
12,714
Blue collar
3,296
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,714 79.4% 5.0%
Blue collar 3,296 20.6% -6.5%
Employer type
Self employees
6.6%
Private companies
62.8%
Governmental workers
17.3%
Not for profit companies
13.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,049 6.6% -10.6%
Private companies 10,059 62.8% 1.9%
Governmental workers 2,772 17.3% 7.3%
Not for profit companies 2,130 13.3% 6.1%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
-2.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Middle River 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 Middle River

How people get around in Middle River

Commuting methods vary: 80.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 12,676 80.9% -1.0%
Taxicab 58 0.4% -44.8%
Bus or trolleybus 248 1.6% -38.6%
Railroad 12 0.1% -73.9%
Bicycle 15 0.1% -31.8%
Walk 249 1.6% 24.5%
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.

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FAQs about Middle River demographics 

What is the total population of Middle River?

Middle River has a total population of 31,712 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 Middle River?

The gender ratio in Middle River is as follows:
  • 45.8% males (14,524 residents)
  • 54.2% females (17,188 residents)

What is the median age in Middle River?

The median age in Middle River is 37.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Middle River?

The age distribution in Middle River is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.4% (6,154 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.7% (4,016 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29% (9,206 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.3% (8,032 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.6% (4,304 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Middle River?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Middle River is as follows:
  • White: 49.1% (15,563 residents)
  • Black or African American: 34% (10,767 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (101 residents)
  • Asian: 7.4% (2,345 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (6 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.2% (2,266 residents)
  • Other: 2.1% (664 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 83.9% of the population in Middle River.

How many housing units are there in Middle River?

There are 13,410 housing units in Middle River, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Middle River has a total of 12,531 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Middle River?

Middle River has a median household income of $78,398, representing a +5.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Middle River?

The employment rate is 95.6% in Middle River, with a workforce of 16,010 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.4% (12,714 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.6% (3,296 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.6% (1,049 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.8% (10,059 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.3% (2,772 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.3% (2,130 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