Ocean City, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,903
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$77,750/yr
11.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
29,811
-0.1% year-over-year change

Ocean City population

How many people live in Ocean City

Ocean City is home to 6,903 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.7% of Ocean City locals are male, and 51.3% are female.

Total population
6,903
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.7%
3,362
Female
51.3%
3,541
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,362 48.7% 5.6%
Female 3,541 51.3% -4.3%
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 Ocean City is 56, with the population distributed as follows: about 7.7% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18.2% of the population, while another 31.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 31.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
55.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
7.7%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
18.2%
45 to 64
31.5%
Over 65
31.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 530 7.7% -10.2%
15 to 24 783 11.3% 5.4%
25 to 44 1,260 18.2% 1.1%
45 to 64 2,176 31.5% 6.9%
Over 65 2,154 31.2% -5.2%
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 Ocean City, 89.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 6.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.1%
Non-citizens
6.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,161 89.2% 1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 285 4.1% -9.5%
Non-citizens 457 6.6% -9.0%
Racial breakdown
White
85.6%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
4.4%
Other
6.1%
Value Percent
White 5,908 85.6%
Black or African American 107 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 17 0.2%
Asian 120 1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 29 0.4%
Two or more races 304 4.4%
Other 418 6.1%

Households in Ocean City

A peek inside Ocean City households

Ocean City has 3,828 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50% are families, while the remaining 50% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,828
-1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,912
Family households
1,916
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,912 50% -2.9%
Family households 1,916 50% 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 Ocean City

The housing landscape of Ocean City

Ocean City's housing consists of 29,811 units, with 11.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.2% 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 2.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
29,811
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,306 11.1%
1 unit, attached 3,351 11.2%
2 units 375 1.3%
3 or 4 units 1,346 4.5%
5 to 9 units 2,701 9.1%
10 to 19 units 4,093 13.7%
20 to 49 units 6,486 21.8%
50 or more units 7,289 24.4%
Mobile home 864 2.9%
Homes built since 2020
54
575.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ocean City

In Ocean City, the median construction year is 1982. About 1.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 425 1.4% 9.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 394 1.3% 2.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 314 1% 4.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,913 6.4% -4.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 9,554 32% 0.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 11,478 38.5% -0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,911 6.4% 9.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,219 10.8% -4.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 549 1.8% -2.5%
Built in 2020 or later 54 0.2% 575.0%
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.

Ocean City occupancy rates

Out of the 3,828 occupied housing units in Ocean City, 74.2% are owner-occupied, while 25.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 87.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,828
-1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
986
Owner occupied
2,842
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 986 25.8% -4.3%
Owner occupied 2,842 74.2% 0.0%
Unoccupied housing units
87.2%
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.

Ocean City housing costs

Housing costs in Ocean City come to a median of $1,415 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,353.

Median housing costs per month
$1,415/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 Ocean City
$1,353/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 Ocean City

Ocean City education at a glance

About 29.4% of the population in Ocean City went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 8.8% earned an associate degree and 23.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 84 1.3% 21.7%
High school diploma 1,838 29.4% -3.3%
College diploma 1,416 22.6% 1.2%
Associate degree 547 8.8% -2.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,449 23.2% 1.5%
Graduate degree 919 14.7% 5.8%
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 Ocean City

How much people earn in Ocean City

The average annual household income in Ocean City was $127,891 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $77,750, reflecting a +11.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ocean City
$127,891/year
8.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ocean City
$77,750/year
11.6% year-over-year change

Ocean City income by age

In Ocean City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,375. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $91,964 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,986, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $75,714 in earnings. Overall, 90.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,986 42.8%
25 - 44 $72,375 10.5%
45 - 64 $91,964 12.3%
Over 65 $75,714 9.2%
Above poverty level
6,025
Below poverty level
662
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,025 90.1% -1.9%
Below poverty level 662 9.9% 17.4%

Employment in Ocean City

Workforce and job types in Ocean City

The job market in Ocean City is powered by 3,601 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 89.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 10.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 20.2% run their own businesses, 60.3% are employed by private companies, and 15.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,601
-2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
3,216
Blue collar
385
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,216 89.3% -1.6%
Blue collar 385 10.7% -10.7%
Employer type
Self employees
20.2%
Private companies
60.3%
Governmental workers
15.1%
Not for profit companies
4.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 726 20.2% -10.8%
Private companies 2,171 60.3% -1.4%
Governmental workers 543 15.1% -6.9%
Not for profit companies 161 4.5% 62.6%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
-6.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ocean City stands at 5.7%, 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 Ocean City

How people get around in Ocean City

Commuting methods vary: 70.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.9% 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 2,540 70.4% -0.7%
Bus or trolleybus 38 1% -30.9%
Motorcycle 55 1.5% -1.8%
Bicycle 173 4.8% 0.0%
Walk 140 3.9% -10.8%
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 Ocean City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
21842 11,226 5,751 $79,876 $145,998

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FAQs about Ocean City demographics 

What is the total population of Ocean City?

Ocean City has a total population of 6,903 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Ocean City?

The gender ratio in Ocean City is as follows:
  • 48.7% males (3,362 residents)
  • 51.3% females (3,541 residents)

What is the median age in Ocean City?

The median age in Ocean City is 55.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Ocean City?

The age distribution in Ocean City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 7.7% (530 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (783 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18.2% (1,260 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 31.5% (2,176 residents)
  • Over 65: 31.2% (2,154 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ocean City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ocean City is as follows:
  • White: 85.6% (5,908 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (107 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (17 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (120 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (29 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.4% (304 residents)
  • Other: 6.1% (418 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.2% of the population in Ocean City.

How many housing units are there in Ocean City?

There are 29,811 housing units in Ocean City, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ocean City has a total of 3,828 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ocean City?

Ocean City has a median household income of $77,750, representing a +11.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Ocean City?

The employment rate is 94.3% in Ocean City, with a workforce of 3,601 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89.3% (3,216 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 10.7% (385 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 20.2% (726 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.3% (2,171 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.1% (543 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.5% (161 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