National Harbor, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,454
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$109,707/yr
-17.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,596
0.5% year-over-year change

National Harbor population

How many people live in National Harbor

National Harbor is home to 4,454 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.7% of National Harbor locals are male, and 54.3% are female.

Total population
4,454
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.7%
2,037
Female
54.3%
2,417
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,037 45.7% -3.7%
Female 2,417 54.3% 5.0%
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 National Harbor is 49, with the population distributed as follows: about 6.1% are children under 15, then 9.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.7% of the population, while another 37.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
48.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
6.1%
15 to 24
9.8%
25 to 44
27.7%
45 to 64
37.5%
Over 65
18.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 272 6.1% 46.2%
15 to 24 438 9.8% 70.4%
25 to 44 1,234 27.7% -16.4%
45 to 64 1,669 37.5% 7.4%
Over 65 841 18.9% -10.9%
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 National Harbor, 71.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 17% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 17% of locals are Caucasian, 46.9% are African American and 13.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 22.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
71.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
17%
Non-citizens
11.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,189 71.6% 2.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 757 17% -3.0%
Non-citizens 508 11.4% -3.6%
Racial breakdown
White
17%
Black or African American
46.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
13.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
22.1%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 756 17%
Black or African American 2,087 46.9%
Asian 598 13.4%
Two or more races 984 22.1%
Other 29 0.6%

Households in National Harbor

A peek inside National Harbor households

National Harbor has 2,343 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 39.7% are families, while the remaining 60.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,343
-3.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,413
Family households
930
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,413 60.3% 0.4%
Family households 930 39.7% -8.5%
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 National Harbor

The housing landscape of National Harbor

National Harbor's housing consists of 2,596 units, with 18.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 18.1% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
2,596
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 487 18.8%
1 unit, attached 470 18.1%
5 to 9 units 365 14.1%
10 to 19 units 92 3.5%
20 to 49 units 34 1.3%
50 or more units 1,148 44.2%
Homes built since 2020
135
542.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in National Harbor

In National Harbor, the median construction year is 2005. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 33.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 27.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 5.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 21 0.8% 31.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 241 9.3% -30.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 266 10.2% -45.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 247 9.5% 26.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 104 4% 48.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 859 33.1% 14.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 723 27.8% 3.4%
Built in 2020 or later 135 5.2% 542.9%
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.

National Harbor occupancy rates

Out of the 2,343 occupied housing units in National Harbor, 57.5% are owner-occupied, while 42.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,343
-3.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
995
Owner occupied
1,348
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 995 42.5% -9.9%
Owner occupied 1,348 57.5% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
9.7%
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.

National Harbor housing costs

Housing costs in National Harbor come to a median of $2,289 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,271.

Median housing costs per month
$2,289/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 National Harbor
$2,271/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 National Harbor

National Harbor education at a glance

About 18.3% of the population in National Harbor went to high school, while 16.2% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 32.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 22.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 62 1.5% 0.0%
High school diploma 760 18.3% -14.1%
College diploma 672 16.2% -11.7%
Associate degree 348 8.4% -0.6%
Bachelor's degree 1,359 32.8% 9.4%
Graduate degree 949 22.9% 3.0%
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 National Harbor

How much people earn in National Harbor

The average annual household income in National Harbor was $131,564 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -9.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $109,707, reflecting a -17.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in National Harbor
$131,564/year
-9.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in National Harbor
$109,707/year
-17.9% year-over-year change

National Harbor income by age

In National Harbor, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $137,738. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $124,922 overall. Overall, 86.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $137,738 -10.4%
45 - 64 $124,922 -6.7%
Over 65 $81,552 -3.7%
Above poverty level
3,818
Below poverty level
596
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,818 86.5% -7.0%
Below poverty level 596 13.5% 109.1%

Average renter income in National Harbor

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in National Harbor, their median household income was $100,803 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$100,803
Rent-to-income ratio
27%
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 National Harbor

Workforce and job types in National Harbor

The job market in National Harbor is powered by 2,722 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 18.3% run their own businesses, 47.3% are employed by private companies, and 24.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,722
-12.7% year-over-year change
White collar
2,309
Blue collar
413
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,309 84.8% -17.9%
Blue collar 413 15.2% 35.0%
Employer type
Self employees
18.3%
Private companies
47.3%
Governmental workers
24.1%
Not for profit companies
10.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 499 18.3% 2.9%
Private companies 1,288 47.3% -2.9%
Governmental workers 656 24.1% -31.2%
Not for profit companies 279 10.2% -21.2%
Unemployment rate
8.9%
98.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in National Harbor stands at 8.9%, 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 National Harbor

How people get around in National Harbor

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,738 63.4% -17.8%
Bus or trolleybus 46 1.7% 0.0%
Subway or elevated 147 5.4% N/A
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 National Harbor demographics 

What is the total population of National Harbor?

National Harbor has a total population of 4,454 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 National Harbor?

The gender ratio in National Harbor is as follows:
  • 45.7% males (2,037 residents)
  • 54.3% females (2,417 residents)

What is the median age in National Harbor?

The median age in National Harbor is 48.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in National Harbor?

The age distribution in National Harbor is as follows:
  • Under 15: 6.1% (272 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.8% (438 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.7% (1,234 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 37.5% (1,669 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.9% (841 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of National Harbor?

The racial and ethnic makeup of National Harbor is as follows:
  • White: 17% (756 residents)
  • Black or African American: 46.9% (2,087 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 13.4% (598 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 22.1% (984 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (29 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 71.6% of the population in National Harbor.

How many housing units are there in National Harbor?

There are 2,596 housing units in National Harbor, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

National Harbor has a total of 2,343 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in National Harbor?

National Harbor has a median household income of $109,707, representing a -17.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for National Harbor?

The employment rate is 91.1% in National Harbor, with a workforce of 2,722 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.8% (2,309 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.2% (413 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 18.3% (499 residents)
  • Private companies: 47.3% (1,288 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 24.1% (656 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.2% (279 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