Portland, ME demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
68,854
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$79,540/yr
4.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
36,559
1.7% year-over-year change

Portland population

How many people live in Portland

Portland is home to 68,854 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Portland locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
68,854
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
33,330
Female
51.6%
35,524
Value Percent YoY change
Male 33,330 48.4% 1.2%
Female 35,524 51.6% -0.1%
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 Portland is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.9% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 35.6% of the population, while another 23.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.9%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
35.6%
45 to 64
23.5%
Over 65
16.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,888 12.9% 2.0%
15 to 24 7,675 11.2% -5.5%
25 to 44 24,488 35.6% 2.0%
45 to 64 16,187 23.5% 0.9%
Over 65 11,616 16.9% -0.0%
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 Portland, 86.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 78% of locals are Caucasian, 9.3% are African American and 3.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
86.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.4%
Non-citizens
6.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 59,859 86.9% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,385 6.4% 5.6%
Non-citizens 4,610 6.7% 7.7%
Racial breakdown
White
78%
Black or African American
9.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
3.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.4%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 53,725 78%
Black or African American 6,385 9.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 78 0.1%
Asian 2,689 3.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 12 0%
Two or more races 5,099 7.4%
Other 866 1.3%

Households in Portland

A peek inside Portland households

Portland has 32,965 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 42.9% are families, while the remaining 57.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
32,965
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
18,815
Family households
14,150
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 18,815 57.1% 2.0%
Family households 14,150 42.9% 1.4%
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 Portland

The housing landscape of Portland

Portland's housing consists of 36,559 units, with 36% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.6% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
36,559
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,155 36%
1 unit, attached 1,680 4.6%
2 units 3,507 9.6%
3 or 4 units 6,190 16.9%
5 to 9 units 4,039 11%
10 to 19 units 2,183 6%
20 to 49 units 2,104 5.8%
50 or more units 3,614 9.9%
Mobile home 87 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
334
112.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Portland

In Portland, the median construction year is 1946. About 45.8% 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. Then, 5.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 16,740 45.8% 1.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,440 6.7% 2.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,948 8.1% 4.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,849 7.8% 0.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,969 8.1% -6.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,215 8.8% -0.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,375 3.8% 4.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,950 5.3% 4.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,739 4.8% 7.1%
Built in 2020 or later 334 0.9% 112.7%
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.

Portland occupancy rates

Out of the 32,965 occupied housing units in Portland, 46.8% are owner-occupied, while 53.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
32,965
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
17,520
Owner occupied
15,445
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 17,520 53.2% 1.4%
Owner occupied 15,445 46.8% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
9.8%
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.

Portland housing costs

Housing costs in Portland come to a median of $1,629 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,577.

Median housing costs per month
$1,629/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 Portland
$1,577/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 Portland

Portland education at a glance

About 17.7% of the population in Portland went to high school, while 16% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 35.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 21.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,092 1.9% -12.2%
High school diploma 10,295 17.7% -2.2%
College diploma 9,306 16% -2.1%
Associate degree 4,345 7.5% 10.5%
Bachelor's degree 20,681 35.5% 1.5%
Graduate degree 12,559 21.6% 1.5%
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 Portland

How much people earn in Portland

The average annual household income in Portland was $108,014 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 $79,540, reflecting a +4.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Portland
$108,014/year
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Portland
$79,540/year
4.4% year-over-year change

Portland income by age

In Portland, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $92,971. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $83,019 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $60,475, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $58,471 in earnings. Overall, 88.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $60,475 -5.0%
25 - 44 $92,971 2.9%
45 - 64 $83,019 5.6%
Over 65 $58,471 0.4%
Above poverty level
59,017
Below poverty level
7,516
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 59,017 88.7% 0.6%
Below poverty level 7,516 11.3% 0.2%

Average renter income in Portland

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Portland, their median household income was $48,582 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$48,582
Rent-to-income ratio
39%
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 Portland

Workforce and job types in Portland

The job market in Portland is powered by 40,324 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 86.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12% run their own businesses, 60.2% are employed by private companies, and 9.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
40,324
1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
34,954
Blue collar
5,370
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 34,954 86.7% 0.7%
Blue collar 5,370 13.3% 9.8%
Employer type
Self employees
12%
Private companies
60.2%
Governmental workers
9.5%
Not for profit companies
18.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,836 12% 9.1%
Private companies 24,278 60.2% 1.2%
Governmental workers 3,828 9.5% 0.0%
Not for profit companies 7,382 18.3% 0.6%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
-1.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Portland stands at 4.2%, 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 Portland

How people get around in Portland

In Portland, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 59.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 11% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
-2.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 23,616 59.3% -2.8%
Taxicab 134 0.3% 127.1%
Bus or trolleybus 809 2% -4.6%
Subway or elevated 67 0.2% N/A
Railroad 8 0% -11.1%
Ferryboat 160 0.4% 20.3%
Motorcycle 27 0.1% -22.9%
Bicycle 524 1.3% 11.0%
Walk 4,374 11% -2.7%
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 Portland by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
04101 18,431 10,608 $63,880 $90,547
04102 17,267 8,120 $82,751 $109,524
04103 32,024 13,657 $89,796 $120,238
04108 826 406 $94,318 $125,276
04109 213 119 $0 $96,876

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FAQs about Portland demographics 

What is the total population of Portland?

Portland has a total population of 68,854 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Portland?

The gender ratio in Portland is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (33,330 residents)
  • 51.6% females (35,524 residents)

What is the median age in Portland?

The median age in Portland is 37.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Portland?

The age distribution in Portland is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.9% (8,888 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (7,675 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 35.6% (24,488 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.5% (16,187 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.9% (11,616 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Portland?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Portland is as follows:
  • White: 78% (53,725 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.3% (6,385 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (78 residents)
  • Asian: 3.9% (2,689 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (12 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.4% (5,099 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (866 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 86.9% of the population in Portland.

How many housing units are there in Portland?

There are 36,559 housing units in Portland, 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 Portland and what is the average household size?

Portland has a total of 32,965 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Portland?

Portland has a median household income of $79,540, representing a +4.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.8% in Portland, with a workforce of 40,324 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.7% (34,954 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.3% (5,370 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12% (4,836 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.2% (24,278 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.5% (3,828 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 18.3% (7,382 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