Keene, NH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
22,939
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$78,445/yr
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,540
2.6% year-over-year change

Keene population

How many people live in Keene

Keene is home to 22,939 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Keene locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
22,939
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
11,330
Female
50.6%
11,609
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,330 49.4% 0.2%
Female 11,609 50.6% -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 Keene is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.4% are children under 15, then 19.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.4% of the population, while another 22.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.4%
15 to 24
19.5%
25 to 44
27.4%
45 to 64
22.2%
Over 65
19.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,613 11.4% 0.2%
15 to 24 4,467 19.5% -8.7%
25 to 44 6,281 27.4% 1.5%
45 to 64 5,099 22.2% -0.8%
Over 65 4,479 19.5% 9.5%
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 Keene, 94.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.1% of locals are Caucasian, 1.7% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.8%
Non-citizens
2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,608 94.2% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 880 3.8% 26.3%
Non-citizens 451 2% 0.2%
Racial breakdown
White
92.1%
Black or African American
1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.9%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 21,128 92.1%
Black or African American 387 1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 16 0.1%
Asian 161 0.7%
Two or more races 1,120 4.9%
Other 127 0.6%

Households in Keene

A peek inside Keene households

Keene has 9,399 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.6% are families, while the remaining 49.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,399
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,642
Family households
4,757
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,642 49.4% 2.6%
Family households 4,757 50.6% 1.1%
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 Keene

The housing landscape of Keene

Keene's housing consists of 10,540 units, with 46% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.8% 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 4.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,540
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,849 46%
1 unit, attached 404 3.8%
2 units 1,170 11.1%
3 or 4 units 972 9.2%
5 to 9 units 766 7.3%
10 to 19 units 585 5.6%
20 to 49 units 694 6.6%
50 or more units 656 6.2%
Mobile home 444 4.2%
Homes built since 2020
15
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Keene

In Keene, the median construction year is 1961. About 34.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,610 34.2% -1.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 457 4.3% 27.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,093 10.4% -5.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,187 11.3% 2.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,255 11.9% 15.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,456 13.8% -3.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 418 4% 1.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 527 5% 19.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 522 5% 9.4%
Built in 2020 or later 15 0.1% N/A
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.

Keene occupancy rates

Out of the 9,399 occupied housing units in Keene, 55.1% are owner-occupied, while 44.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,399
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,224
Owner occupied
5,175
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,224 44.9% -6.8%
Owner occupied 5,175 55.1% 10.2%
Unoccupied housing units
10.8%
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.

Keene housing costs

Housing costs in Keene come to a median of $1,446 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,342.

Median housing costs per month
$1,446/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 Keene
$1,342/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 Keene

Keene education at a glance

About 30.4% of the population in Keene went to high school, while 23.6% pursued college studies. Another 7% earned an associate degree and 24% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 333 1.7% -16.1%
High school diploma 5,991 30.4% 3.9%
College diploma 4,656 23.6% -9.2%
Associate degree 1,369 7% 17.5%
Bachelor's degree 4,739 24% 1.9%
Graduate degree 2,617 13.3% 6.6%
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 Keene

How much people earn in Keene

The average annual household income in Keene was $94,502 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 $78,445, reflecting a +0.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Keene
$94,502/year
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Keene
$78,445/year
0.3% year-over-year change

Keene income by age

In Keene, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,837. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $88,393 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $26,250, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,820 in earnings. Overall, 89.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $26,250 -34.7%
25 - 44 $86,837 3.2%
45 - 64 $88,393 -2.3%
Over 65 $60,820 9.7%
Above poverty level
18,523
Below poverty level
2,093
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,523 89.8% 1.1%
Below poverty level 2,093 10.2% 3.9%

Average renter income in Keene

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Keene, their median household income was $48,250 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$48,250
Rent-to-income ratio
33.4%
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 Keene

Workforce and job types in Keene

The job market in Keene is powered by 12,077 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.5% run their own businesses, 64.7% are employed by private companies, and 14.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,077
-1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
9,907
Blue collar
2,170
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,907 82% -2.1%
Blue collar 2,170 18% 4.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7.5%
Private companies
64.7%
Governmental workers
14.2%
Not for profit companies
13.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 902 7.5% -1.9%
Private companies 7,810 64.7% -1.1%
Governmental workers 1,714 14.2% -9.3%
Not for profit companies 1,651 13.7% 10.3%
Unemployment rate
2.0%
27.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Keene stands at 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 Keene

How people get around in Keene

Commuting methods vary: 75.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.1% 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 8,898 75.5% -7.2%
Bus or trolleybus 10 0.1% 42.9%
Motorcycle 81 0.7% -2.4%
Bicycle 68 0.6% -10.5%
Walk 834 7.1% 39.7%
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 Keene by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
03431 25,065 10,228 $79,541 $94,971

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FAQs about Keene demographics 

What is the total population of Keene?

Keene has a total population of 22,939 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Keene?

The gender ratio in Keene is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (11,330 residents)
  • 50.6% females (11,609 residents)

What is the median age in Keene?

The median age in Keene is 37.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Keene?

The age distribution in Keene is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.4% (2,613 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 19.5% (4,467 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.4% (6,281 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.2% (5,099 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.5% (4,479 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Keene?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Keene is as follows:
  • White: 92.1% (21,128 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.7% (387 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (16 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (161 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.9% (1,120 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (127 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.2% of the population in Keene.

How many housing units are there in Keene?

There are 10,540 housing units in Keene, reflecting a +2.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Keene has a total of 9,399 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Keene?

Keene has a median household income of $78,445, representing a +0.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 98% in Keene, with a workforce of 12,077 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82% (9,907 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18% (2,170 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.5% (902 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.7% (7,810 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.2% (1,714 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.7% (1,651 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