Caribou, ME demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
7,382
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,709/yr
-1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,931
-1.7% year-over-year change

Caribou population

How many people live in Caribou

Caribou is home to 7,382 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.5% of Caribou locals are male, and 47.5% are female.

Total population
7,382
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.5%
3,878
Female
47.5%
3,504
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,878 52.5% -1.8%
Female 3,504 47.5% 0.7%
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 Caribou is 51, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.1% are children under 15, then 10% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.8% of the population, while another 29.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 27.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
51.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.1%
15 to 24
10%
25 to 44
19.8%
45 to 64
29.7%
Over 65
27.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 968 13.1% 14.8%
15 to 24 739 10% -11.5%
25 to 44 1,464 19.8% 0.6%
45 to 64 2,195 29.7% -6.8%
Over 65 2,016 27.3% 4.0%
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 Caribou, 95.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.8% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.5%
Non-citizens
1.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,028 95.2% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 257 3.5% -10.4%
Non-citizens 97 1.3% 27.6%
Racial breakdown
White
91.8%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.5%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 6,779 91.8%
Black or African American 11 0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 109 1.5%
Asian 30 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 25 0.3%
Two or more races 426 5.8%
Other 2 0%

Households in Caribou

A peek inside Caribou households

Caribou has 3,542 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.5% are families, while the remaining 46.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,542
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,648
Family households
1,894
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,648 46.5% 0.7%
Family households 1,894 53.5% -0.9%
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 Caribou

The housing landscape of Caribou

Caribou's housing consists of 3,931 units, with 66.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.3% 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
3,931
-1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,612 66.4%
1 unit, attached 11 0.3%
2 units 256 6.5%
3 or 4 units 395 10%
5 to 9 units 85 2.2%
10 to 19 units 139 3.5%
20 to 49 units 61 1.6%
Mobile home 362 9.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 10 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Caribou

In Caribou, the median construction year is 1960. About 19.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.7% 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 765 19.5% -4.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 264 6.7% -19.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 948 24.1% 2.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 346 8.8% 17.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 592 15.1% -10.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 338 8.6% 24.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 461 11.7% -9.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 172 4.4% -1.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 45 1.1% 4.7%
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.

Caribou occupancy rates

Out of the 3,542 occupied housing units in Caribou, 72.3% are owner-occupied, while 27.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,542
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
982
Owner occupied
2,560
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 982 27.7% 7.0%
Owner occupied 2,560 72.3% -2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
9.9%
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.

Caribou housing costs

Housing costs in Caribou come to a median of $712 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $757.

Median housing costs per month
$712/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 Caribou
$757/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 Caribou

Caribou education at a glance

About 37.8% of the population in Caribou went to high school, while 21% pursued college studies. Another 10.9% earned an associate degree and 16.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 230 3.7% 60.8%
High school diploma 2,342 37.8% -5.6%
College diploma 1,302 21% -3.9%
Associate degree 675 10.9% 5.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,041 16.8% -8.3%
Graduate degree 597 9.6% 15.2%
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 Caribou

How much people earn in Caribou

The average annual household income in Caribou was $73,655 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $53,709, reflecting a -1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Caribou
$73,655/year
-1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Caribou
$53,709/year
-1.0% year-over-year change

Caribou income by age

In Caribou, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,000. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,952 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $57,679, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $34,917 in earnings. Overall, 84.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,679 26.7%
25 - 44 $77,000 -12.4%
45 - 64 $74,952 1.3%
Over 65 $34,917 2.5%
Above poverty level
6,047
Below poverty level
1,111
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,047 84.5% -5.2%
Below poverty level 1,111 15.5% 30.4%

Average renter income in Caribou

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Caribou, their median household income was $25,250 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$25,250
Rent-to-income ratio
36%
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 Caribou

Workforce and job types in Caribou

The job market in Caribou is powered by 3,194 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.2% run their own businesses, 45.7% are employed by private companies, and 25.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,194
-6.7% year-over-year change
White collar
2,675
Blue collar
519
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,675 83.8% -3.6%
Blue collar 519 16.2% -20.3%
Employer type
Self employees
13.2%
Private companies
45.7%
Governmental workers
25.6%
Not for profit companies
15.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 420 13.2% 5.5%
Private companies 1,460 45.7% -10.8%
Governmental workers 819 25.6% 1.4%
Not for profit companies 495 15.5% -14.9%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
3.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Caribou stands at 3.4%, 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 Caribou

How people get around in Caribou

In Caribou, the average commute time is 15 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 82% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
15 min
-7.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,607 82% -11.2%
Taxicab 15 0.5% -21.1%
Walk 141 4.4% 17.5%
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 Caribou by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
04736 9,025 4,194 $54,368 $72,338

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FAQs about Caribou demographics 

What is the total population of Caribou?

Caribou has a total population of 7,382 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 Caribou?

The gender ratio in Caribou is as follows:
  • 52.5% males (3,878 residents)
  • 47.5% females (3,504 residents)

What is the median age in Caribou?

The median age in Caribou is 51.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Caribou?

The age distribution in Caribou is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.1% (968 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10% (739 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.8% (1,464 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.7% (2,195 residents)
  • Over 65: 27.3% (2,016 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Caribou?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Caribou is as follows:
  • White: 91.8% (6,779 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (11 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.5% (109 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (30 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (25 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (426 residents)
  • Other: 0% (2 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.2% of the population in Caribou.

How many housing units are there in Caribou?

There are 3,931 housing units in Caribou, reflecting a -1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Caribou has a total of 3,542 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Caribou?

Caribou has a median household income of $53,709, representing a -1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.6% in Caribou, with a workforce of 3,194 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.8% (2,675 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.2% (519 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.2% (420 residents)
  • Private companies: 45.7% (1,460 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 25.6% (819 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 15.5% (495 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