Penobscot County, ME demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
154,710
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,356/yr
4.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
75,683
0.4% year-over-year change

Penobscot County population

How many people live in Penobscot County

Penobscot County is home to 154,710 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Penobscot County locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
154,710
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
76,849
Female
50.3%
77,861
Value Percent YoY change
Male 76,849 49.7% 0.7%
Female 77,861 50.3% 0.8%
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 Penobscot County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.2% are children under 15, then 13.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.9% of the population, while another 27.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.2%
15 to 24
13.7%
25 to 44
24.9%
45 to 64
27.1%
Over 65
20.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 21,970 14.2% -1.2%
15 to 24 21,208 13.7% 3.6%
25 to 44 38,574 24.9% 0.9%
45 to 64 41,870 27.1% -1.0%
Over 65 31,088 20.1% 2.5%
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 Penobscot County, 95.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.8% of locals are Caucasian, 1.2% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.7%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 147,906 95.6% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,232 2.7% 0.8%
Non-citizens 2,572 1.7% 8.9%
Racial breakdown
White
91.8%
Black or African American
1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.2%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 141,988 91.8%
Black or African American 1,803 1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,330 0.9%
Asian 1,696 1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 82 0%
Two or more races 6,483 4.2%
Other 1,328 0.9%

Households in Penobscot County

A peek inside Penobscot County households

Penobscot County has 65,221 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
65,221
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
26,477
Family households
38,744
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 26,477 40.6% -1.2%
Family households 38,744 59.4% 2.1%
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 Penobscot County

The housing landscape of Penobscot County

Penobscot County's housing consists of 75,683 units, with 64.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 11.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
75,683
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 48,606 64.2%
1 unit, attached 1,663 2.2%
2 units 3,546 4.7%
3 or 4 units 6,360 8.4%
5 to 9 units 3,325 4.4%
10 to 19 units 1,476 2%
20 to 49 units 1,410 1.9%
50 or more units 885 1.2%
Mobile home 8,371 11.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 41 0%
Homes built since 2020
758
80.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Penobscot County

In Penobscot County, the median construction year is 1977. About 21.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.1% 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 16,582 21.9% -0.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,781 3.7% 0.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,777 7.6% -3.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,597 7.4% -2.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 10,002 13.2% 0.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,393 13.7% 0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 8,255 10.9% -6.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 9,390 12.4% -1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,148 8.1% 16.5%
Built in 2020 or later 758 1% 80.9%
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.

Penobscot County occupancy rates

Out of the 65,221 occupied housing units in Penobscot County, 70.5% are owner-occupied, while 29.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
65,221
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
19,211
Owner occupied
46,010
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 19,211 29.5% -0.2%
Owner occupied 46,010 70.5% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
13.8%
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.

Penobscot County housing costs

Housing costs in Penobscot County come to a median of $1,016 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,041.

Median housing costs per month
$1,016/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 Penobscot County
$1,041/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 Penobscot County

Penobscot County education at a glance

About 36.4% of the population in Penobscot County went to high school, while 23.9% pursued college studies. Another 10.8% earned an associate degree and 17% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,771 1.4% -8.8%
High school diploma 46,403 36.4% 1.6%
College diploma 30,446 23.9% 0.8%
Associate degree 13,728 10.8% 4.2%
Bachelor's degree 21,637 17% -2.6%
Graduate degree 13,476 10.6% 3.7%
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 Penobscot County

How much people earn in Penobscot County

The average annual household income in Penobscot County was $88,290 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,356, reflecting a +4.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Penobscot County
$88,290/year
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Penobscot County
$66,356/year
4.9% year-over-year change

Penobscot County income by age

In Penobscot County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,946. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,308 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,354, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,478 in earnings. Overall, 85.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,354 9.4%
25 - 44 $75,946 3.7%
45 - 64 $78,308 10.2%
Over 65 $50,478 5.3%
Above poverty level
125,504
Below poverty level
20,632
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 125,504 85.9% 0.0%
Below poverty level 20,632 14.1% 5.0%

Employment in Penobscot County

Workforce and job types in Penobscot County

The job market in Penobscot County is powered by 75,342 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.8% run their own businesses, 57.7% are employed by private companies, and 15.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
75,342
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
59,690
Blue collar
15,652
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 59,690 79.2% 1.2%
Blue collar 15,652 20.8% 0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.8%
Private companies
57.7%
Governmental workers
15.8%
Not for profit companies
16.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 7,353 9.8% -4.2%
Private companies 43,445 57.7% 1.1%
Governmental workers 11,877 15.8% 3.4%
Not for profit companies 12,667 16.8% 1.8%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
-11.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Penobscot County 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 Penobscot County

How people get around in Penobscot County

Commuting methods vary: 82.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.7% 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 61,030 82.9% 0.2%
Taxicab 59 0.1% -15.7%
Bus or trolleybus 272 0.4% -9.6%
Railroad 48 0.1% 92.0%
Motorcycle 68 0.1% 17.2%
Bicycle 329 0.4% 15.0%
Walk 2,743 3.7% 5.1%
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 Penobscot County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
04427 2,990 1,211 $64,229 $80,604
04428 3,334 1,438 $72,857 $91,753
04401 44,854 19,843 $66,932 $89,307
04410 1,254 476 $82,955 $87,949
04411 1,645 644 $76,667 $90,810
04412 9,652 4,250 $66,613 $90,480
04417 355 181 $46,094 $50,534
04418 1,649 642 $60,500 $70,760
04419 2,941 1,276 $82,188 $94,834
04422 1,117 443 $75,250 $83,275

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FAQs about Penobscot County demographics 

What is the total population of Penobscot County?

Penobscot County has a total population of 154,710 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 Penobscot County?

The gender ratio in Penobscot County is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (76,849 residents)
  • 50.3% females (77,861 residents)

What is the median age in Penobscot County?

The median age in Penobscot County is 42.5.

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

The age distribution in Penobscot County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.2% (21,970 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.7% (21,208 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.9% (38,574 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.1% (41,870 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.1% (31,088 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Penobscot County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Penobscot County is as follows:
  • White: 91.8% (141,988 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.2% (1,803 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (1,330 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (1,696 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (82 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.2% (6,483 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (1,328 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.6% of the population in Penobscot County.

How many housing units are there in Penobscot County?

There are 75,683 housing units in Penobscot County, 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 Penobscot County and what is the average household size?

Penobscot County has a total of 65,221 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Penobscot County?

Penobscot County has a median household income of $66,356, representing a +4.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in Penobscot County, with a workforce of 75,342 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.2% (59,690 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.8% (15,652 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.8% (7,353 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.7% (43,445 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.8% (11,877 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 16.8% (12,667 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