Salisbury, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
33,285
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,576/yr
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,658
0.4% year-over-year change

Salisbury population

How many people live in Salisbury

Salisbury is home to 33,285 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48% of Salisbury locals are male, and 52% are female.

Total population
33,285
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48%
15,980
Female
52%
17,305
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,980 48% 2.3%
Female 17,305 52% -0.9%
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 Salisbury is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.2% are children under 15, then 20% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.2% of the population, while another 18.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
30.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.2%
15 to 24
20%
25 to 44
27.2%
45 to 64
18.3%
Over 65
13.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,045 21.2% -0.2%
15 to 24 6,663 20% -2.5%
25 to 44 9,045 27.2% 2.1%
45 to 64 6,089 18.3% -0.5%
Over 65 4,443 13.4% 5.6%
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 Salisbury, 81.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 42.9% of locals are Caucasian, 41.2% are African American and 2.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.7%
Non-citizens
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 27,196 81.7% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,563 7.7% 16.5%
Non-citizens 3,526 10.6% -1.6%
Racial breakdown
White
42.9%
Black or African American
41.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
2.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.2%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 14,272 42.9%
Black or African American 13,712 41.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 74 0.2%
Asian 719 2.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0%
Two or more races 3,745 11.2%
Other 759 2.3%

Households in Salisbury

A peek inside Salisbury households

Salisbury has 13,168 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 52.3% are families, while the remaining 47.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,168
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,278
Family households
6,890
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,278 47.7% 1.3%
Family households 6,890 52.3% 0.5%
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 Salisbury

The housing landscape of Salisbury

Salisbury's housing consists of 14,658 units, with 37.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 12.8% 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 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,658
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,555 37.9%
1 unit, attached 1,871 12.8%
2 units 615 4.2%
3 or 4 units 1,315 9%
5 to 9 units 1,392 9.5%
10 to 19 units 2,231 15.2%
20 to 49 units 997 6.8%
50 or more units 571 3.9%
Mobile home 111 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
280
154.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Salisbury

In Salisbury, the median construction year is 1983. About 11.8% 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, 19.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,732 11.8% -11.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 656 4.5% 6.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,218 8.3% 1.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,260 8.6% 24.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,868 12.7% -16.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,822 12.4% -0.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,310 8.9% 4.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,803 19.1% -5.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,709 11.7% 19.8%
Built in 2020 or later 280 1.9% 154.6%
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.

Salisbury occupancy rates

Out of the 13,168 occupied housing units in Salisbury, 27.1% are owner-occupied, while 72.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,168
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
9,601
Owner occupied
3,567
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 9,601 72.9% -1.0%
Owner occupied 3,567 27.1% 6.6%
Unoccupied housing units
10.2%
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.

Salisbury housing costs

Housing costs in Salisbury come to a median of $1,316 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,318.

Median housing costs per month
$1,316/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 Salisbury
$1,318/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 Salisbury

Salisbury education at a glance

About 41.6% of the population in Salisbury went to high school, while 23.1% pursued college studies. Another 8.7% earned an associate degree and 16.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 647 2.6% -14.1%
High school diploma 10,513 41.6% 7.1%
College diploma 5,837 23.1% -4.5%
Associate degree 2,189 8.7% 3.2%
Bachelor's degree 4,127 16.4% 1.2%
Graduate degree 1,931 7.6% -11.8%
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 Salisbury

How much people earn in Salisbury

The average annual household income in Salisbury was $78,650 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,576, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Salisbury
$78,650/year
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Salisbury
$58,576/year
3.9% year-over-year change

Salisbury income by age

In Salisbury, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,696. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,548 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,417, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $41,781 in earnings. Overall, 75.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,417 1.9%
25 - 44 $61,696 0.9%
45 - 64 $80,548 29.5%
Over 65 $41,781 -23.0%
Above poverty level
24,154
Below poverty level
7,774
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 24,154 75.6% 1.1%
Below poverty level 7,774 24.4% -0.8%

Average renter income in Salisbury

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Salisbury, their median household income was $43,537 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$43,537
Rent-to-income ratio
36.3%
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 Salisbury

Workforce and job types in Salisbury

The job market in Salisbury is powered by 15,725 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.7% run their own businesses, 66.2% are employed by private companies, and 20.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,725
3.5% year-over-year change
White collar
11,909
Blue collar
3,816
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,909 75.7% 2.7%
Blue collar 3,816 24.3% 6.0%
Employer type
Self employees
5.7%
Private companies
66.2%
Governmental workers
20.2%
Not for profit companies
7.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 899 5.7% -1.3%
Private companies 10,414 66.2% 2.3%
Governmental workers 3,168 20.2% 5.0%
Not for profit companies 1,244 7.9% 14.9%
Unemployment rate
8.8%
-14.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Salisbury stands at 8.8%, 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 Salisbury

How people get around in Salisbury

Commuting methods vary: 88.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.1% 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 13,504 88.2% 1.9%
Taxicab 238 1.6% 4.4%
Bus or trolleybus 72 0.5% -52.6%
Bicycle 12 0.1% -42.9%
Walk 632 4.1% 10.5%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Salisbury by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
21801 30,088 11,348 $71,313 $104,941
21804 40,430 15,707 $73,156 $92,849

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FAQs about Salisbury demographics 

What is the total population of Salisbury?

Salisbury has a total population of 33,285 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Salisbury?

The gender ratio in Salisbury is as follows:
  • 48% males (15,980 residents)
  • 52% females (17,305 residents)

What is the median age in Salisbury?

The median age in Salisbury is 30.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Salisbury?

The age distribution in Salisbury is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.2% (7,045 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 20% (6,663 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.2% (9,045 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.3% (6,089 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.4% (4,443 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Salisbury?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Salisbury is as follows:
  • White: 42.9% (14,272 residents)
  • Black or African American: 41.2% (13,712 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (74 residents)
  • Asian: 2.2% (719 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.2% (3,745 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (759 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.7% of the population in Salisbury.

How many housing units are there in Salisbury?

There are 14,658 housing units in Salisbury, 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 Salisbury and what is the average household size?

Salisbury has a total of 13,168 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Salisbury?

Salisbury has a median household income of $58,576, representing a +3.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.2% in Salisbury, with a workforce of 15,725 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.7% (11,909 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.3% (3,816 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.7% (899 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.2% (10,414 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.2% (3,168 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.9% (1,244 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