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

Total population
440,578
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$85,736/yr
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
191,145
2.1% year-over-year change

Northern Brooklyn population

How many people live in Northern Brooklyn

Northern Brooklyn is home to 440,578 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.6% of Northern Brooklyn locals are male, and 52.4% are female.

Total population
440,578
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.6%
209,712
Female
52.4%
230,866
Value Percent YoY change
Male 209,712 47.6% 1.5%
Female 230,866 52.4% 1.4%
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 Northern Brooklyn is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.4% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 41.8% of the population, while another 19.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 10.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.4%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
41.8%
45 to 64
19.1%
Over 65
10.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 72,315 16.4% 0.4%
15 to 24 52,473 11.9% -2.8%
25 to 44 183,953 41.8% 2.3%
45 to 64 84,101 19.1% 1.7%
Over 65 47,736 10.8% 4.3%
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 Northern Brooklyn, 71.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 16.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 37.9% of locals are Caucasian, 27% are African American and 5.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 14.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
71.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
16.9%
Non-citizens
11.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 316,536 71.8% 2.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 74,390 16.9% -3.2%
Non-citizens 49,651 11.3% 3.3%
Racial breakdown
White
37.9%
Black or African American
27%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
5.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
14.1%
Other
14.4%
Value Percent
White 166,997 37.9%
Black or African American 118,917 27%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,601 0.8%
Asian 25,524 5.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 182 0%
Two or more races 62,147 14.1%
Other 63,211 14.4%

Households in Northern Brooklyn

A peek inside Northern Brooklyn households

Northern Brooklyn has 180,305 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.7% are families, while the remaining 53.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
180,305
2.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
96,169
Family households
84,136
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 96,169 53.3% 5.3%
Family households 84,136 46.7% -0.6%
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 Northern Brooklyn

The housing landscape of Northern Brooklyn

Northern Brooklyn's housing consists of 191,145 units, with 1.7% 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.

Housing units
191,145
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,235 1.7%
1 unit, attached 8,144 4.3%
2 units 21,880 11.4%
3 or 4 units 37,251 19.5%
5 to 9 units 43,522 22.8%
10 to 19 units 18,260 9.6%
20 to 49 units 28,405 14.9%
50 or more units 30,343 15.9%
Mobile home 99 0%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0%
Homes built since 2020
3,102
68.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Northern Brooklyn

In Northern Brooklyn, the median construction year is 1938. About 46.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 88,117 46.1% 0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 11,362 5.9% -0.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 12,506 6.5% -2.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 12,034 6.3% 1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 9,010 4.7% -5.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,581 3.4% 3.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 7,560 4% -8.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 17,173 9% 5.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 23,700 12.4% 12.6%
Built in 2020 or later 3,102 1.6% 68.1%
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.

Northern Brooklyn occupancy rates

Out of the 180,305 occupied housing units in Northern Brooklyn, 18.1% are owner-occupied, while 81.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
180,305
2.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
147,715
Owner occupied
32,590
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 147,715 81.9% 2.6%
Owner occupied 32,590 18.1% 2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
5.7%
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.

Northern Brooklyn housing costs

Housing costs in Northern Brooklyn come to a median of $2,235 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,219.

Median housing costs per month
$2,235/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 Northern Brooklyn
$2,219/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 Northern Brooklyn

Northern Brooklyn education at a glance

About 29.4% of the population in Northern Brooklyn went to high school, while 13.6% pursued college studies. Another 4.9% earned an associate degree and 30.4% 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 25,063 7.1% 0.6%
High school diploma 104,456 29.4% -2.0%
College diploma 48,253 13.6% 0.7%
Associate degree 17,418 4.9% -7.5%
Bachelor's degree 107,738 30.4% 4.5%
Graduate degree 51,840 14.6% 8.3%
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 Northern Brooklyn

How much people earn in Northern Brooklyn

The average annual household income in Northern Brooklyn was $123,670 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $85,736, reflecting a +0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Northern Brooklyn
$123,670/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Northern Brooklyn
$85,736/year
0.7% year-over-year change

Northern Brooklyn income by age

In Northern Brooklyn, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $109,051. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,890 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $66,083, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $33,524 in earnings. Overall, 77% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $66,083 -9.3%
25 - 44 $109,051 6.3%
45 - 64 $80,890 3.9%
Over 65 $33,524 -11.9%
Above poverty level
333,032
Below poverty level
99,661
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 333,032 77% 1.3%
Below poverty level 99,661 23% 2.3%

Employment in Northern Brooklyn

Workforce and job types in Northern Brooklyn

89.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 10.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.6% run their own businesses, 65.4% are employed by private companies, and 11.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
208,406
Blue collar
23,591
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 208,406 89.8% 2.5%
Blue collar 23,591 10.2% -5.0%
Employer type
Self employees
10.6%
Private companies
65.4%
Governmental workers
11.4%
Not for profit companies
12.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 24,675 10.6% 5.2%
Private companies 151,852 65.4% -0.1%
Governmental workers 26,468 11.4% 3.2%
Not for profit companies 29,002 12.5% 7.1%

Transportation in Northern Brooklyn

How people get around in Northern Brooklyn

In Northern Brooklyn, the average commute time is 250 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 43.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 25.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
250 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 32,079 43.9% 3.5%
Taxicab 1,187 1.6% -25.8%
Bus or trolleybus 11,911 16.3% -1.2%
Railroad 1,133 1.6% -27.3%
Ferryboat 623 0.8% -9.6%
Motorcycle 355 0.5% 132.0%
Bicycle 6,960 9.5% -5.7%
Walk 18,817 25.8% -0.4%
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 Northern Brooklyn by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
11237 45,334 18,228 $85,196 $106,516
11216 60,685 27,134 $101,277 $136,276
11206 93,020 34,813 $61,430 $93,331
11207 93,198 35,658 $56,523 $76,883
11211 65,314 28,139 $107,506 $159,714
11221 91,588 36,532 $85,736 $115,390
11222 42,853 21,316 $125,734 $158,860
11233 81,822 32,948 $62,411 $89,455
11205 51,676 17,962 $93,887 $141,870

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FAQs about Northern Brooklyn demographics 

What is the total population of Northern Brooklyn?

Northern Brooklyn has a total population of 440,578 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Northern Brooklyn?

The gender ratio in Northern Brooklyn is as follows:
  • 47.6% males (209,712 residents)
  • 52.4% females (230,866 residents)

What is the median age in Northern Brooklyn?

The median age in Northern Brooklyn is 33.9.

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

The age distribution in Northern Brooklyn is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.4% (72,315 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (52,473 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 41.8% (183,953 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.1% (84,101 residents)
  • Over 65: 10.8% (47,736 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Northern Brooklyn?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Northern Brooklyn is as follows:
  • White: 37.9% (166,997 residents)
  • Black or African American: 27% (118,917 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (3,601 residents)
  • Asian: 5.8% (25,524 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (182 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.1% (62,147 residents)
  • Other: 14.4% (63,211 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 71.8% of the population in Northern Brooklyn.

How many housing units are there in Northern Brooklyn?

There are 191,145 housing units in Northern Brooklyn, reflecting a +2.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Northern Brooklyn has a total of 180,305 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Northern Brooklyn?

Northern Brooklyn has a median household income of $85,736, representing a +0.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Northern Brooklyn?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89.8% (208,406 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 10.2% (23,591 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.6% (24,675 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.4% (151,852 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.4% (26,468 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.5% (29,002 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