Potomac, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
45,902
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$236,675/yr
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,796
-0.3% year-over-year change

Potomac population

How many people live in Potomac

Potomac is home to 45,902 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Potomac locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
45,902
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
22,201
Female
51.6%
23,701
Value Percent YoY change
Male 22,201 48.4% -1.5%
Female 23,701 51.6% 0.0%
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 Potomac is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.4% are children under 15, then 12.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 16.5% of the population, while another 29.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.4%
15 to 24
12.8%
25 to 44
16.5%
45 to 64
29.2%
Over 65
24.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,991 17.4% -4.1%
15 to 24 5,853 12.8% -0.3%
25 to 44 7,589 16.5% -0.1%
45 to 64 13,381 29.2% -3.0%
Over 65 11,088 24.2% 4.2%
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 Potomac, 69% of the population are US-born citizens, while 23.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 60.8% of locals are Caucasian, 4.6% are African American and 20.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
69%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
23.7%
Non-citizens
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 31,688 69% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 10,890 23.7% 1.2%
Non-citizens 3,324 7.2% -14.2%
Racial breakdown
White
60.8%
Black or African American
4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
20.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.3%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 27,914 60.8%
Black or African American 2,128 4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 16 0%
Asian 9,365 20.4%
Two or more races 5,195 11.3%
Other 1,284 2.8%

Households in Potomac

A peek inside Potomac households

Potomac has 16,316 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 78.8% are families, while the remaining 21.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
16,316
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,457
Family households
12,859
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,457 21.2% 0.5%
Family households 12,859 78.8% 0.2%
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 Potomac

The housing landscape of Potomac

Potomac's housing consists of 16,796 units, with 71.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 13.9% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,796
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,994 71.4%
1 unit, attached 2,339 13.9%
2 units 32 0.2%
3 or 4 units 74 0.4%
5 to 9 units 208 1.2%
10 to 19 units 89 0.5%
20 to 49 units 450 2.7%
50 or more units 1,593 9.5%
Mobile home 17 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
123
38.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Potomac

In Potomac, the median construction year is 1977. About 0.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 79 0.5% 46.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 196 1.2% -27.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 798 4.8% 10.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,515 26.9% 0.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,261 25.4% 5.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,660 21.8% -3.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,522 9.1% -3.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 892 5.3% -9.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 750 4.5% -12.4%
Built in 2020 or later 123 0.7% 38.2%
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.

Potomac occupancy rates

Out of the 16,316 occupied housing units in Potomac, 84.8% are owner-occupied, while 15.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
16,316
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,481
Owner occupied
13,835
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,481 15.2% 2.1%
Owner occupied 13,835 84.8% -0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
2.9%
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.

Potomac housing costs

Housing costs in Potomac come to a median of $3,150 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,887.

Median housing costs per month
$3,150/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 Potomac
$2,887/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 Potomac

Potomac education at a glance

About 8.5% of the population in Potomac went to high school, while 8.3% pursued college studies. Another 2.4% earned an associate degree and 28.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 50.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 520 1.5% -0.4%
High school diploma 3,002 8.5% 4.9%
College diploma 2,932 8.3% -2.9%
Associate degree 842 2.4% -4.6%
Bachelor's degree 10,015 28.4% -0.4%
Graduate degree 17,908 50.8% 0.8%
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 Potomac

How much people earn in Potomac

The average annual household income in Potomac was $321,477 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $236,675, reflecting a -1.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Potomac
$321,477/year
5.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Potomac
$236,675/year
-1.1% year-over-year change

Potomac income by age

In Potomac, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $250,001. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $250,001 overall. Overall, 96.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $250,001 0.4%
45 - 64 $250,001 0.0%
Over 65 $173,053 3.6%
Above poverty level
43,504
Below poverty level
1,763
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 43,504 96.1% -0.9%
Below poverty level 1,763 3.9% 5.2%

Average renter income in Potomac

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Potomac, their median household income was $89,215 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
$89,215
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 Potomac

Workforce and job types in Potomac

The job market in Potomac is powered by 21,906 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 97.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 2.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.8% run their own businesses, 46.4% are employed by private companies, and 22.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
21,906
-0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
21,397
Blue collar
509
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,397 97.7% -0.4%
Blue collar 509 2.3% -1.0%
Employer type
Self employees
15.8%
Private companies
46.4%
Governmental workers
22.8%
Not for profit companies
14.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,455 15.8% -2.9%
Private companies 10,175 46.4% -0.8%
Governmental workers 5,006 22.8% -1.4%
Not for profit companies 3,270 14.9% 5.6%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
-1.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Potomac stands at 3.6%, 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 Potomac

How people get around in Potomac

Commuting methods vary: 55.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.3% 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 12,112 55.8% -6.4%
Taxicab 2 0% -33.3%
Bus or trolleybus 49 0.2% -67.1%
Subway or elevated 402 1.8% N/A
Railroad 58 0.3% -27.5%
Ferryboat 5 0% 0.0%
Bicycle 33 0.2% -8.3%
Walk 285 1.3% 26.1%
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 Potomac by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
20854 50,498 16,751 $250,001 $341,063

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FAQs about Potomac demographics 

What is the total population of Potomac?

Potomac has a total population of 45,902 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Potomac?

The gender ratio in Potomac is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (22,201 residents)
  • 51.6% females (23,701 residents)

What is the median age in Potomac?

The median age in Potomac is 47.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Potomac?

The age distribution in Potomac is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.4% (7,991 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.8% (5,853 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 16.5% (7,589 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.2% (13,381 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.2% (11,088 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Potomac?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Potomac is as follows:
  • White: 60.8% (27,914 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.6% (2,128 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (16 residents)
  • Asian: 20.4% (9,365 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.3% (5,195 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (1,284 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 69% of the population in Potomac.

How many housing units are there in Potomac?

There are 16,796 housing units in Potomac, reflecting a -0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Potomac has a total of 16,316 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Potomac?

Potomac has a median household income of $236,675, representing a -1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Potomac?

The employment rate is 96.4% in Potomac, with a workforce of 21,906 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 97.7% (21,397 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 2.3% (509 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.8% (3,455 residents)
  • Private companies: 46.4% (10,175 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.8% (5,006 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 14.9% (3,270 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