Central Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
546,820
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$81,464/yr
-1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
235,994
0.9% year-over-year change

Central Brooklyn population

How many people live in Central Brooklyn

Central Brooklyn is home to 546,820 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.3% of Central Brooklyn locals are male, and 53.7% are female.

Total population
546,820
-1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.3%
253,156
Female
53.7%
293,664
Value Percent YoY change
Male 253,156 46.3% -1.1%
Female 293,664 53.7% -1.1%
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 Central Brooklyn is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.3% are children under 15, then 11.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 32.1% of the population, while another 24.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.3%
15 to 24
11.1%
25 to 44
32.1%
45 to 64
24.2%
Over 65
15.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 94,409 17.3% -1.9%
15 to 24 60,882 11.1% -1.3%
25 to 44 175,322 32.1% -1.7%
45 to 64 132,306 24.2% -1.6%
Over 65 83,901 15.3% 2.1%
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 Central Brooklyn, 60.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 26.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 20.2% of locals are Caucasian, 56% are African American and 5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
60.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
26.5%
Non-citizens
12.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 333,092 60.9% -1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 144,819 26.5% -0.8%
Non-citizens 68,909 12.6% 0.5%
Racial breakdown
White
20.2%
Black or African American
56%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.5%
Other
6.8%
Value Percent
White 110,738 20.2%
Black or African American 306,282 56%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,181 0.4%
Asian 27,550 5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 141 0%
Two or more races 62,678 11.5%
Other 37,250 6.8%

Households in Central Brooklyn

A peek inside Central Brooklyn households

Central Brooklyn has 215,592 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.3% are families, while the remaining 42.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
215,592
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
92,005
Family households
123,587
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 92,005 42.7% 0.8%
Family households 123,587 57.3% -1.7%
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 Central Brooklyn

The housing landscape of Central Brooklyn

Central Brooklyn's housing consists of 235,994 units, with 4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.6% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
235,994
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,534 4%
1 unit, attached 17,970 7.6%
2 units 31,677 13.4%
3 or 4 units 32,467 13.8%
5 to 9 units 17,607 7.5%
10 to 19 units 17,931 7.6%
20 to 49 units 44,648 18.9%
50 or more units 63,685 27%
Mobile home 278 0.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 197 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
2,889
121.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Central Brooklyn

In Central Brooklyn, the median construction year is 1938. About 51.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.9% 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 121,703 51.6% -0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 22,062 9.4% -0.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 22,481 9.5% -6.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 20,192 8.6% 2.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 10,476 4.4% 4.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 8,088 3.4% -2.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,314 2.2% 1.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8,867 3.8% 6.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 13,921 5.9% 11.9%
Built in 2020 or later 2,889 1.2% 121.0%
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.

Central Brooklyn occupancy rates

Out of the 215,592 occupied housing units in Central Brooklyn, 23.7% are owner-occupied, while 76.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
215,592
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
164,452
Owner occupied
51,139
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 164,452 76.3% -1.1%
Owner occupied 51,139 23.7% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
8.6%
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.

Central Brooklyn housing costs

Housing costs in Central Brooklyn come to a median of $1,847 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,730.

Median housing costs per month
$1,847/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 Central Brooklyn
$1,730/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 Central Brooklyn

Central Brooklyn education at a glance

About 35.3% of the population in Central Brooklyn went to high school, while 17.2% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 21.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 24,697 5.7% 1.4%
High school diploma 153,178 35.3% -3.0%
College diploma 74,708 17.2% -3.2%
Associate degree 29,625 6.8% 0.2%
Bachelor's degree 94,486 21.8% 1.3%
Graduate degree 57,349 13.2% 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 Central Brooklyn

How much people earn in Central Brooklyn

The average annual household income in Central Brooklyn was $91,729 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $81,464, reflecting a -1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Central Brooklyn
$91,729/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Central Brooklyn
$81,464/year
-1.6% year-over-year change

Central Brooklyn income by age

In Central Brooklyn, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $85,333. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $90,214 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,069 in earnings. Overall, 80.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,750 -15.1%
25 - 44 $85,333 0.7%
45 - 64 $90,214 15.9%
Over 65 $49,069 0.1%
Above poverty level
429,581
Below poverty level
106,058
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 429,581 80.2% -1.8%
Below poverty level 106,058 19.8% 2.4%

Employment in Central Brooklyn

Workforce and job types in Central Brooklyn

86.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.1% run their own businesses, 59.8% are employed by private companies, and 17.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
225,754
Blue collar
35,767
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 225,754 86.3% -1.4%
Blue collar 35,767 13.7% -0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.1%
Private companies
59.8%
Governmental workers
17.9%
Not for profit companies
13.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 23,909 9.1% 7.0%
Private companies 156,438 59.8% -2.8%
Governmental workers 46,920 17.9% -2.0%
Not for profit companies 34,253 13.1% 1.6%

Transportation in Central Brooklyn

How people get around in Central Brooklyn

In Central Brooklyn, the average commute time is 276 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 49.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 14.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
276 min
-14.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 49,617 49.7% 0.8%
Taxicab 3,071 3.1% -6.6%
Bus or trolleybus 25,948 26% -4.0%
Railroad 1,421 1.4% -44.2%
Ferryboat 86 0.1% -13.1%
Motorcycle 344 0.3% -2.0%
Bicycle 4,962 5% 1.5%
Walk 14,395 14.4% 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 Central Brooklyn by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
11236 88,051 31,033 $81,464 $103,837
11216 60,685 27,134 $101,277 $136,276
11210 57,915 20,723 $83,692 $117,398
11212 89,020 33,052 $41,355 $58,982
11213 68,846 27,360 $65,127 $92,746
11218 72,042 25,661 $97,366 $155,509
11225 58,158 25,014 $88,568 $116,611
11226 95,144 38,130 $81,014 $110,684
11233 81,822 32,948 $62,411 $89,455
11203 74,817 29,238 $67,897 $90,203

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FAQs about Central Brooklyn demographics 

What is the total population of Central Brooklyn?

Central Brooklyn has a total population of 546,820 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 -1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Central Brooklyn?

The gender ratio in Central Brooklyn is as follows:
  • 46.3% males (253,156 residents)
  • 53.7% females (293,664 residents)

What is the median age in Central Brooklyn?

The median age in Central Brooklyn is 36.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Central Brooklyn?

The age distribution in Central Brooklyn is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.3% (94,409 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.1% (60,882 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 32.1% (175,322 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.2% (132,306 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.3% (83,901 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Central Brooklyn?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Central Brooklyn is as follows:
  • White: 20.2% (110,738 residents)
  • Black or African American: 56% (306,282 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (2,181 residents)
  • Asian: 5% (27,550 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (141 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.5% (62,678 residents)
  • Other: 6.8% (37,250 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 60.9% of the population in Central Brooklyn.

How many housing units are there in Central Brooklyn?

There are 235,994 housing units in Central Brooklyn, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Central Brooklyn has a total of 215,592 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Central Brooklyn?

Central Brooklyn has a median household income of $81,464, representing a -1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Central Brooklyn?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.3% (225,754 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.7% (35,767 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.1% (23,909 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.8% (156,438 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.9% (46,920 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.1% (34,253 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