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

Total population
26,584
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$173,136/yr
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,039
3.2% year-over-year change

Downtown Brooklyn population

How many people live in Downtown Brooklyn

Downtown Brooklyn is home to 26,584 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.9% of Downtown Brooklyn locals are male, and 54.1% are female.

Total population
26,584
2.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.9%
12,191
Female
54.1%
14,393
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,191 45.9% 0.5%
Female 14,393 54.1% 3.5%
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 Downtown Brooklyn is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.2% are children under 15, then 10.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 43.2% of the population, while another 19.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.2%
15 to 24
10.3%
25 to 44
43.2%
45 to 64
19.5%
Over 65
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,762 14.2% -1.8%
15 to 24 2,750 10.3% 8.8%
25 to 44 11,471 43.2% 1.5%
45 to 64 5,187 19.5% 1.2%
Over 65 3,414 12.8% 4.7%
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 Downtown Brooklyn, 75.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 13.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 59.8% of locals are Caucasian, 11% are African American and 13.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
75.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
13.2%
Non-citizens
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 20,007 75.3% 1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,497 13.2% 5.2%
Non-citizens 3,081 11.6% 1.6%
Racial breakdown
White
59.8%
Black or African American
11%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
13.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.7%
Other
4.5%
Value Percent
White 15,886 59.8%
Black or African American 2,926 11%
American Indian and Alaska Native 91 0.3%
Asian 3,638 13.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 12 0%
Two or more races 2,844 10.7%
Other 1,186 4.5%

Households in Downtown Brooklyn

A peek inside Downtown Brooklyn households

Downtown Brooklyn has 12,797 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 42.5% are families, while the remaining 57.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,797
2.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,364
Family households
5,434
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,364 57.5% 4.7%
Family households 5,434 42.5% 0.1%
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 Downtown Brooklyn

The housing landscape of Downtown Brooklyn

Downtown Brooklyn's housing consists of 14,039 units, with 1.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
14,039
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 182 1.3%
1 unit, attached 425 3%
2 units 448 3.2%
3 or 4 units 830 5.9%
5 to 9 units 1,131 8.1%
10 to 19 units 1,052 7.5%
20 to 49 units 1,893 13.5%
50 or more units 8,077 57.5%
Homes built since 2020
328
39.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Downtown Brooklyn

In Downtown Brooklyn, the median construction year is 1956. About 40.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 20.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,642 40.2% 1.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 494 3.5% 1.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,492 10.6% 7.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 619 4.4% -11.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 366 2.6% 36.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 207 1.5% -11.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 289 2.1% 18.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,682 12% 9.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,921 20.8% -0.7%
Built in 2020 or later 328 2.3% 39.0%
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.

Downtown Brooklyn occupancy rates

Out of the 12,797 occupied housing units in Downtown Brooklyn, 35.9% are owner-occupied, while 64.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,797
2.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,204
Owner occupied
4,594
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,204 64.1% 2.1%
Owner occupied 4,594 35.9% 3.7%
Unoccupied housing units
8.8%
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.

Downtown Brooklyn housing costs

Housing costs in Downtown Brooklyn come to a median of $3,275 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $3,358.

Median housing costs per month
$3,275/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 Downtown Brooklyn
$3,358/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 Downtown Brooklyn

Downtown Brooklyn education at a glance

About 10% of the population in Downtown Brooklyn went to high school, while 9.6% pursued college studies. Another 2.4% earned an associate degree and 37.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 38.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 482 2.2% -4.0%
High school diploma 2,222 10% -4.9%
College diploma 2,146 9.6% 16.2%
Associate degree 539 2.4% -13.6%
Bachelor's degree 8,384 37.6% 1.2%
Graduate degree 8,513 38.2% 3.9%
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 Downtown Brooklyn

How much people earn in Downtown Brooklyn

The average annual household income in Downtown Brooklyn was $240,324 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $173,136, reflecting a +2.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Downtown Brooklyn
$240,324/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Downtown Brooklyn
$173,136/year
2.3% year-over-year change

Downtown Brooklyn income by age

In Downtown Brooklyn, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $205,278. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $177,618 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $59,402, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $90,957 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 $59,402 119.2%
25 - 44 $205,278 -0.5%
45 - 64 $177,618 8.9%
Over 65 $90,957 -6.6%
Above poverty level
22,260
Below poverty level
2,539
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 22,260 89.8% 2.3%
Below poverty level 2,539 10.2% -0.7%

Employment in Downtown Brooklyn

Workforce and job types in Downtown Brooklyn

96.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 3.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.5% run their own businesses, 67.4% are employed by private companies, and 9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
15,544
Blue collar
568
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 15,544 96.5% 3.2%
Blue collar 568 3.5% 34.9%
Employer type
Self employees
11.5%
Private companies
67.4%
Governmental workers
9%
Not for profit companies
12.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,848 11.5% 2.5%
Private companies 10,865 67.4% 3.6%
Governmental workers 1,449 9% 6.6%
Not for profit companies 1,950 12.1% 6.7%

Transportation in Downtown Brooklyn

How people get around in Downtown Brooklyn

In Downtown Brooklyn, the average commute time is 12 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 29.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 39.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
12 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,037 29.6% 20.6%
Taxicab 207 5.9% -19.5%
Bus or trolleybus 201 5.7% 24.8%
Railroad 43 1.2% 19.4%
Ferryboat 53 1.5% -29.3%
Motorcycle 10 0.3% -33.3%
Bicycle 555 15.8% 24.4%
Walk 1,400 39.9% 0.9%
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 Downtown Brooklyn by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
11201 70,674 34,022 $173,136 $249,394

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FAQs about Downtown Brooklyn demographics 

What is the total population of Downtown Brooklyn?

Downtown Brooklyn has a total population of 26,584 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 +2.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Downtown Brooklyn?

The gender ratio in Downtown Brooklyn is as follows:
  • 45.9% males (12,191 residents)
  • 54.1% females (14,393 residents)

What is the median age in Downtown Brooklyn?

The median age in Downtown Brooklyn is 35.2.

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

The age distribution in Downtown Brooklyn is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.2% (3,762 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.3% (2,750 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 43.2% (11,471 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.5% (5,187 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.8% (3,414 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Downtown Brooklyn?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Downtown Brooklyn is as follows:
  • White: 59.8% (15,886 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11% (2,926 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (91 residents)
  • Asian: 13.7% (3,638 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (12 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.7% (2,844 residents)
  • Other: 4.5% (1,186 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 75.3% of the population in Downtown Brooklyn.

How many housing units are there in Downtown Brooklyn?

There are 14,039 housing units in Downtown Brooklyn, reflecting a +3.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Downtown Brooklyn has a total of 12,797 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Downtown Brooklyn?

Downtown Brooklyn has a median household income of $173,136, representing a +2.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Downtown Brooklyn?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 96.5% (15,544 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 3.5% (568 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.5% (1,848 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.4% (10,865 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9% (1,449 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.1% (1,950 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