Merrimack County, NH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
155,967
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$97,004/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
66,497
0.6% year-over-year change

Merrimack County population

How many people live in Merrimack County

Merrimack County is home to 155,967 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Merrimack County locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
155,967
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
77,727
Female
50.2%
78,240
Value Percent YoY change
Male 77,727 49.8% 0.6%
Female 78,240 50.2% 0.6%
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 Merrimack County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.9% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.5% of the population, while another 27.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.9%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
25.5%
45 to 64
27.2%
Over 65
19.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 23,191 14.9% -0.6%
15 to 24 19,433 12.5% -1.0%
25 to 44 39,794 25.5% 1.8%
45 to 64 42,488 27.2% -1.2%
Over 65 31,061 19.9% 3.6%
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 Merrimack County, 94.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.8% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.7%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 148,003 94.9% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,730 3.7% -2.1%
Non-citizens 2,234 1.4% -6.9%
Racial breakdown
White
90.8%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
5%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 141,669 90.8%
Black or African American 2,533 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 259 0.2%
Asian 2,362 1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 99 0.1%
Two or more races 7,862 5%
Other 1,183 0.8%

Households in Merrimack County

A peek inside Merrimack County households

Merrimack County has 60,901 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.6% are families, while the remaining 33.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
60,901
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
20,335
Family households
40,566
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 20,335 33.4% 1.2%
Family households 40,566 66.6% 0.5%
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 Merrimack County

The housing landscape of Merrimack County

Merrimack County's housing consists of 66,497 units, with 63.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.3% 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 6.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
66,497
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 41,950 63.1%
1 unit, attached 2,835 4.3%
2 units 3,633 5.5%
3 or 4 units 3,970 6%
5 to 9 units 2,856 4.3%
10 to 19 units 1,813 2.7%
20 to 49 units 3,318 5%
50 or more units 1,514 2.3%
Mobile home 4,547 6.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 61 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
781
114.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Merrimack County

In Merrimack County, the median construction year is 1977. About 24.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 16,148 24.3% -1.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,411 3.6% -1.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,180 4.8% -1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,925 7.4% 5.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 9,146 13.8% -0.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 11,347 17.1% -0.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,188 9.3% -5.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8,073 12.1% 3.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 4,298 6.5% 6.8%
Built in 2020 or later 781 1.2% 114.6%
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.

Merrimack County occupancy rates

Out of the 60,901 occupied housing units in Merrimack County, 73.5% are owner-occupied, while 26.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
60,901
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
16,147
Owner occupied
44,754
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 16,147 26.5% 0.8%
Owner occupied 44,754 73.5% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
8.4%
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.

Merrimack County housing costs

Housing costs in Merrimack County come to a median of $1,619 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,360.

Median housing costs per month
$1,619/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 Merrimack County
$1,360/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 Merrimack County

Merrimack County education at a glance

About 33.4% of the population in Merrimack County went to high school, while 19% pursued college studies. Another 10.1% earned an associate degree and 21.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,877 1.5% -4.3%
High school diploma 42,491 33.4% -1.6%
College diploma 24,156 19% 2.4%
Associate degree 12,804 10.1% -1.9%
Bachelor's degree 27,341 21.5% 3.9%
Graduate degree 18,641 14.6% 3.0%
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 Merrimack County

How much people earn in Merrimack County

The average annual household income in Merrimack County was $123,673 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $97,004, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Merrimack County
$123,673/year
3.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Merrimack County
$97,004/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Merrimack County income by age

In Merrimack County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $109,622. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $116,682 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $67,250, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,830 in earnings. Overall, 92.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $67,250 5.2%
25 - 44 $109,622 4.9%
45 - 64 $116,682 1.0%
Over 65 $66,830 2.8%
Above poverty level
137,547
Below poverty level
11,367
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 137,547 92.4% -0.1%
Below poverty level 11,367 7.6% 7.8%

Employment in Merrimack County

Workforce and job types in Merrimack County

The job market in Merrimack County is powered by 81,673 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 60.2% are employed by private companies, and 15.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
81,673
0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
65,429
Blue collar
16,244
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 65,429 80.1% 2.1%
Blue collar 16,244 19.9% -4.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
60.2%
Governmental workers
15.5%
Not for profit companies
15%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 7,568 9.3% 5.0%
Private companies 49,187 60.2% -2.5%
Governmental workers 12,680 15.5% 5.1%
Not for profit companies 12,238 15% 7.6%
Unemployment rate
3.1%
1.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Merrimack County stands at 3.1%, 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 Merrimack County

How people get around in Merrimack County

Commuting methods vary: 81.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.8% 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 64,985 81.3% -1.2%
Taxicab 38 0% -19.1%
Bus or trolleybus 168 0.2% -17.6%
Subway or elevated 9 0% N/A
Motorcycle 188 0.2% 45.7%
Bicycle 178 0.2% -18.0%
Walk 2,268 2.8% 5.8%
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 Merrimack County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
03046 3,097 1,194 $124,348 $150,776
03224 2,392 946 $138,125 $171,932
03229 6,046 2,127 $137,386 $215,767
03230 1,451 649 $71,685 $89,297
03231 89 58 $0 $107,886
03233 156 93 $120,156 $118,216
03234 4,939 1,926 $97,941 $114,870
03106 15,032 5,475 $118,442 $141,417
03216 2,046 842 $88,311 $101,589
03221 2,200 879 $109,803 $154,502

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FAQs about Merrimack County demographics 

What is the total population of Merrimack County?

Merrimack County has a total population of 155,967 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 Merrimack County?

The gender ratio in Merrimack County is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (77,727 residents)
  • 50.2% females (78,240 residents)

What is the median age in Merrimack County?

The median age in Merrimack County is 42.9.

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

The age distribution in Merrimack County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.9% (23,191 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (19,433 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.5% (39,794 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.2% (42,488 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.9% (31,061 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Merrimack County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Merrimack County is as follows:
  • White: 90.8% (141,669 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (2,533 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (259 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (2,362 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (99 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5% (7,862 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (1,183 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.9% of the population in Merrimack County.

How many housing units are there in Merrimack County?

There are 66,497 housing units in Merrimack County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Merrimack County has a total of 60,901 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Merrimack County?

Merrimack County has a median household income of $97,004, representing a +3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.9% in Merrimack County, with a workforce of 81,673 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.1% (65,429 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.9% (16,244 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (7,568 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.2% (49,187 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.5% (12,680 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 15% (12,238 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