Somerset County, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
24,822
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$64,943/yr
23.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,928
0.1% year-over-year change

Somerset County population

How many people live in Somerset County

Somerset County is home to 24,822 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.6% of Somerset County locals are male, and 44.4% are female.

Total population
24,822
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.6%
13,791
Female
44.4%
11,031
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,791 55.6% 2.2%
Female 11,031 44.4% -1.4%
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 Somerset County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.8% are children under 15, then 15% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.4% of the population, while another 23% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.8%
15 to 24
15%
25 to 44
29.4%
45 to 64
23%
Over 65
17.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,668 14.8% 2.5%
15 to 24 3,731 15% -9.0%
25 to 44 7,302 29.4% 6.7%
45 to 64 5,702 23% -3.1%
Over 65 4,419 17.8% 3.3%
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 Somerset County, 94.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 52% of locals are Caucasian, 38.8% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.3%
Non-citizens
3.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 23,460 94.5% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 561 2.3% 24.4%
Non-citizens 801 3.2% 41.3%
Racial breakdown
White
52%
Black or African American
38.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.4%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 12,896 52%
Black or African American 9,623 38.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 60 0.2%
Asian 185 0.8%
Two or more races 1,601 6.4%
Other 457 1.8%

Households in Somerset County

A peek inside Somerset County households

Somerset County has 8,348 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.4% are families, while the remaining 40.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,348
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,390
Family households
4,958
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,390 40.6% 6.2%
Family households 4,958 59.4% -2.9%
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 Somerset County

The housing landscape of Somerset County

Somerset County's housing consists of 10,928 units, with 72.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.1% 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 8.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,928
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,967 72.9%
1 unit, attached 229 2.1%
2 units 81 0.7%
3 or 4 units 429 3.9%
5 to 9 units 412 3.8%
10 to 19 units 508 4.6%
20 to 49 units 265 2.4%
50 or more units 116 1.1%
Mobile home 909 8.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 12 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
110
103.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Somerset County

In Somerset County, the median construction year is 1986. About 15.3% 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, 19.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,669 15.3% 2.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 492 4.5% -25.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 514 4.7% 6.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 657 6% -19.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,260 11.5% -6.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,558 14.3% 6.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,630 14.9% -5.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,124 19.4% 19.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 914 8.4% -4.6%
Built in 2020 or later 110 1% 103.7%
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.

Somerset County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,348 occupied housing units in Somerset County, 73.1% are owner-occupied, while 26.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 23.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,348
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,244
Owner occupied
6,104
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,244 26.9% -13.2%
Owner occupied 6,104 73.1% 6.9%
Unoccupied housing units
23.6%
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.

Somerset County housing costs

Housing costs in Somerset County come to a median of $987 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,013.

Median housing costs per month
$987/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 Somerset County
$1,013/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 Somerset County

Somerset County education at a glance

About 49.9% of the population in Somerset County went to high school, while 23.3% pursued college studies. Another 6.5% earned an associate degree and 11.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 558 2.7% -7.2%
High school diploma 10,225 49.9% 2.6%
College diploma 4,769 23.3% -6.1%
Associate degree 1,332 6.5% -13.1%
Bachelor's degree 2,285 11.2% 4.0%
Graduate degree 1,317 6.4% 32.1%
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 Somerset County

How much people earn in Somerset County

The average annual household income in Somerset County was $74,802 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $64,943, reflecting a +23.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Somerset County
$74,802/year
9.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Somerset County
$64,943/year
23.8% year-over-year change

Somerset County income by age

In Somerset County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $74,002. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,848 overall. Overall, 83.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $74,002 43.7%
45 - 64 $71,848 11.6%
Over 65 $51,836 0.5%
Above poverty level
16,438
Below poverty level
3,250
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,438 83.5% 5.7%
Below poverty level 3,250 16.5% -15.6%

Employment in Somerset County

Workforce and job types in Somerset County

The job market in Somerset County is powered by 8,981 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.3% run their own businesses, 51.8% are employed by private companies, and 30.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,981
-2.7% year-over-year change
White collar
6,473
Blue collar
2,508
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,473 72.1% -3.4%
Blue collar 2,508 27.9% -0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
12.3%
Private companies
51.8%
Governmental workers
30.6%
Not for profit companies
5.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,105 12.3% -1.9%
Private companies 4,655 51.8% -6.6%
Governmental workers 2,751 30.6% 10.5%
Not for profit companies 470 5.2% -25.2%
Unemployment rate
7.5%
29.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Somerset County stands at 7.5%, 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 Somerset County

How people get around in Somerset County

Commuting methods vary: 86% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.5% 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 7,554 86% 0.5%
Bus or trolleybus 9 0.1% N/A
Ferryboat 15 0.2% 50.0%
Motorcycle 37 0.4% 825.0%
Bicycle 38 0.4% -7.3%
Walk 306 3.5% -13.8%
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 Somerset County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
21817 4,417 1,925 $55,720 $70,300
21821 797 375 $60,341 $61,242
21822 2,926 1,108 $84,479 $106,921
21824 264 123 $90,288 $92,466
21838 1,873 715 $88,438 $106,100
21851 7,297 3,252 $53,162 $82,487
21853 10,537 3,599 $69,697 $77,002
21866 81 53 $95,250 $89,370
21867 60 24 $0 $0
21871 1,764 814 $50,524 $64,274

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FAQs about Somerset County demographics 

What is the total population of Somerset County?

Somerset County has a total population of 24,822 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 Somerset County?

The gender ratio in Somerset County is as follows:
  • 55.6% males (13,791 residents)
  • 44.4% females (11,031 residents)

What is the median age in Somerset County?

The median age in Somerset County is 38.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Somerset County?

The age distribution in Somerset County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.8% (3,668 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15% (3,731 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.4% (7,302 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23% (5,702 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.8% (4,419 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Somerset County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Somerset County is as follows:
  • White: 52% (12,896 residents)
  • Black or African American: 38.8% (9,623 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (60 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (185 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.4% (1,601 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (457 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.5% of the population in Somerset County.

How many housing units are there in Somerset County?

There are 10,928 housing units in Somerset County, 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 Somerset County and what is the average household size?

Somerset County has a total of 8,348 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Somerset County?

Somerset County has a median household income of $64,943, representing a +23.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Somerset County?

The employment rate is 92.5% in Somerset County, with a workforce of 8,981 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.1% (6,473 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.9% (2,508 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.3% (1,105 residents)
  • Private companies: 51.8% (4,655 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 30.6% (2,751 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.2% (470 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