Bethel, ME demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
537
-1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$/yr
% year-over-year change
Housing units
510
-1.5% year-over-year change

Bethel population

How many people live in Bethel

Bethel is home to 537 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.6% of Bethel locals are male, and 48.4% are female.

Total population
537
-1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.6%
277
Female
48.4%
260
Value Percent YoY change
Male 277 51.6% 4.5%
Female 260 48.4% -7.5%
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 Bethel is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.1% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.6% of the population, while another 20.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.1%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
29.6%
45 to 64
20.9%
Over 65
19.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 92 17.1% 12.2%
15 to 24 70 13% 2.9%
25 to 44 159 29.6% -3.0%
45 to 64 112 20.9% -22.2%
Over 65 104 19.4% 18.2%
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

There’s also a share of 1.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
100%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 537 100% -1.6%
Racial breakdown
White
98.3%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
1.7%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 528 98.3%
Two or more races 9 1.7%

Households in Bethel

A peek inside Bethel households

Bethel has 263 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 38.8% are families, while the remaining 61.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
263
-3.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
161
Family households
102
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 161 61.2% -4.2%
Family households 102 38.8% -1.0%
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 Bethel

The housing landscape of Bethel

Bethel's housing consists of 510 units, with 36.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.5% 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 9.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
510
-1.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 184 36.1%
1 unit, attached 18 3.5%
2 units 79 15.5%
3 or 4 units 22 4.3%
5 to 9 units 33 6.5%
10 to 19 units 110 21.6%
20 to 49 units 17 3.3%
Mobile home 47 9.2%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Bethel

In Bethel, the median construction year is 1972. About 22% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 112 22% -31.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 13 2.6% -7.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 22 4.3% -33.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 85 16.7% 10.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 133 26.1% 46.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 41 8% -16.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3 0.6% -25.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 101 19.8% 17.4%
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.

Bethel occupancy rates

Out of the 263 occupied housing units in Bethel, 47.9% are owner-occupied, while 52.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 48.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
263
-3.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
137
Owner occupied
126
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 137 52.1% 4.6%
Owner occupied 126 47.9% -10.0%
Unoccupied housing units
48.4%
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.

Bethel housing costs

Housing costs in Bethel come to a median of $886 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $860.

Median housing costs per month
$886/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 Bethel
$860/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 Bethel

Bethel education at a glance

About 39.8% of the population in Bethel went to high school, while 16.5% pursued college studies. Another 3.9% earned an associate degree and 16% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 23.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
High school diploma 164 39.8% 5.1%
College diploma 68 16.5% -13.9%
Associate degree 16 3.9% 77.8%
Bachelor's degree 66 16% 40.4%
Graduate degree 98 23.8% -29.0%
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 Bethel

How much people earn in Bethel

The average annual household income in Bethel was $89,357 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.9% change from the previous year.

Average household income in Bethel
$89,357/year
-0.9% year-over-year change

Bethel income by age

In Bethel, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $39,549. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $205,142 overall. Overall, 77.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $39,549 4.0%
45 - 64 $205,142 47.9%
Over 65 $26,641 -5.7%
Above poverty level
417
Below poverty level
120
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 417 77.6% -7.7%
Below poverty level 120 22.4% 27.7%

Employment in Bethel

Workforce and job types in Bethel

The job market in Bethel is powered by 267 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 85% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 18.4% run their own businesses, 68.5% are employed by private companies, and 3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
267
-6.3% year-over-year change
White collar
227
Blue collar
40
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 227 85% -4.6%
Blue collar 40 15% -14.9%
Employer type
Self employees
18.4%
Private companies
68.5%
Governmental workers
3%
Not for profit companies
10.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 49 18.4% 13.9%
Private companies 183 68.5% 1.7%
Governmental workers 8 3% -42.9%
Not for profit companies 27 10.1% -43.8%
Unemployment rate
7.6%
-18.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Bethel stands at 7.6%, 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 Bethel

How people get around in Bethel

In Bethel, the average commute time is 10 minutes.

Commute time
10 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 151 59.7% -4.4%
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 Bethel by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
04217 3,387 1,588 $61,125 $103,480

Explore more communities

FAQs about Bethel demographics 

What is the total population of Bethel?

Bethel has a total population of 537 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 -1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Bethel?

The gender ratio in Bethel is as follows:
  • 51.6% males (277 residents)
  • 48.4% females (260 residents)

What is the median age in Bethel?

The median age in Bethel is 38.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Bethel?

The age distribution in Bethel is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.1% (92 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (70 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.6% (159 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.9% (112 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.4% (104 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Bethel?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Bethel is as follows:
  • White: 98.3% (528 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 1.7% (9 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 100% of the population in Bethel.

How many housing units are there in Bethel?

There are 510 housing units in Bethel, reflecting a -1.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Bethel has a total of 263 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

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

The employment rate is 92.4% in Bethel, with a workforce of 267 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85% (227 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15% (40 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 18.4% (49 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.5% (183 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 3% (8 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.1% (27 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