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

Total population
268,879
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$139,930/yr
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
130,637
2.0% year-over-year change

Northwestern Brooklyn population

How many people live in Northwestern Brooklyn

Northwestern Brooklyn is home to 268,879 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.7% of Northwestern Brooklyn locals are male, and 53.3% are female.

Total population
268,879
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.7%
125,623
Female
53.3%
143,256
Value Percent YoY change
Male 125,623 46.7% 0.1%
Female 143,256 53.3% 1.0%
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 Northwestern Brooklyn is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.1% are children under 15, then 8.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 41.2% of the population, while another 20.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.1%
15 to 24
8.8%
25 to 44
41.2%
45 to 64
20.9%
Over 65
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 45,862 17.1% -3.6%
15 to 24 23,750 8.8% 3.0%
25 to 44 110,897 41.2% 0.8%
45 to 64 56,260 20.9% 0.5%
Over 65 32,110 11.9% 4.5%
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 Northwestern Brooklyn, 77.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 13.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 57.7% of locals are Caucasian, 14% are African American and 9.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
77.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
13.6%
Non-citizens
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 208,398 77.5% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 36,589 13.6% 1.6%
Non-citizens 23,891 8.9% -0.5%
Racial breakdown
White
57.7%
Black or African American
14%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
9.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.6%
Other
6%
Value Percent
White 155,254 57.7%
Black or African American 37,659 14%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,110 0.4%
Asian 24,779 9.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 85 0%
Two or more races 33,982 12.6%
Other 16,009 6%

Households in Northwestern Brooklyn

A peek inside Northwestern Brooklyn households

Northwestern Brooklyn has 119,929 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 47.1% are families, while the remaining 52.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
119,929
2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
63,462
Family households
56,467
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 63,462 52.9% 3.9%
Family households 56,467 47.1% 0.3%
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 Northwestern Brooklyn

The housing landscape of Northwestern Brooklyn

Northwestern Brooklyn's housing consists of 130,637 units, with 1.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
130,637
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,237 1.7%
1 unit, attached 6,412 4.9%
2 units 10,396 8%
3 or 4 units 20,473 15.7%
5 to 9 units 18,040 13.8%
10 to 19 units 10,409 8%
20 to 49 units 19,078 14.6%
50 or more units 43,538 33.3%
Mobile home 35 0%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 20 0%
Homes built since 2020
2,189
82.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Northwestern Brooklyn

In Northwestern Brooklyn, the median construction year is 1938. About 50.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 66,349 50.8% 0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 8,650 6.6% 2.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,112 6.2% -1.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,626 4.3% -3.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,673 2.8% 10.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,391 2.6% 4.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,752 2.1% 0.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 10,335 7.9% 3.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 19,560 15% 4.0%
Built in 2020 or later 2,189 1.7% 82.7%
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.

Northwestern Brooklyn occupancy rates

Out of the 119,929 occupied housing units in Northwestern Brooklyn, 32.1% are owner-occupied, while 67.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
119,929
2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
81,385
Owner occupied
38,543
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 81,385 67.9% 2.3%
Owner occupied 38,543 32.1% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
8.2%
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.

Northwestern Brooklyn housing costs

Housing costs in Northwestern Brooklyn come to a median of $2,655 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,616.

Median housing costs per month
$2,655/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 Northwestern Brooklyn
$2,616/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 Northwestern Brooklyn

Northwestern Brooklyn education at a glance

About 14.1% of the population in Northwestern Brooklyn went to high school, while 9.7% pursued college studies. Another 3.5% earned an associate degree and 36.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 32.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 7,047 3.3% -0.3%
High school diploma 30,429 14.1% -1.4%
College diploma 20,966 9.7% 5.5%
Associate degree 7,550 3.5% -1.6%
Bachelor's degree 79,174 36.7% 1.8%
Graduate degree 70,497 32.7% 1.2%
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 Northwestern Brooklyn

How much people earn in Northwestern Brooklyn

The average annual household income in Northwestern Brooklyn was $217,130 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $139,930, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Northwestern Brooklyn
$217,130/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Northwestern Brooklyn
$139,930/year
1.0% year-over-year change

Northwestern Brooklyn income by age

In Northwestern Brooklyn, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $198,903. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $119,333 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,164, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $63,438 in earnings. Overall, 87.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,164 -17.5%
25 - 44 $198,903 3.3%
45 - 64 $119,333 -3.1%
Over 65 $63,438 8.5%
Above poverty level
226,734
Below poverty level
31,711
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 226,734 87.7% 1.0%
Below poverty level 31,711 12.3% -2.4%

Employment in Northwestern Brooklyn

Workforce and job types in Northwestern Brooklyn

95.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 4.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.6% run their own businesses, 62% are employed by private companies, and 10.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
146,931
Blue collar
7,427
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 146,931 95.2% 1.5%
Blue collar 7,427 4.8% -2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
12.6%
Private companies
62%
Governmental workers
10.5%
Not for profit companies
14.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 19,393 12.6% 2.5%
Private companies 95,764 62% 1.5%
Governmental workers 16,227 10.5% -0.3%
Not for profit companies 22,973 14.9% 0.7%

Transportation in Northwestern Brooklyn

How people get around in Northwestern Brooklyn

In Northwestern Brooklyn, the average commute time is 175 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 32.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 38.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
175 min
62.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,099 32.5% -5.9%
Taxicab 1,391 3.7% -5.9%
Bus or trolleybus 2,966 8% 15.7%
Railroad 470 1.3% -14.6%
Ferryboat 465 1.2% -12.3%
Motorcycle 188 0.5% 14.6%
Bicycle 5,186 13.9% 10.3%
Walk 14,474 38.9% 1.1%
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 Northwestern Brooklyn by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
11238 58,345 27,919 $134,523 $186,562
11217 43,490 20,307 $162,863 $236,496
11211 65,314 28,139 $107,506 $159,714
11215 70,441 29,788 $185,865 $249,651
11231 38,276 16,783 $139,930 $230,224
11201 70,674 34,022 $173,136 $249,394
11205 51,676 17,962 $93,887 $141,870

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FAQs about Northwestern Brooklyn demographics 

What is the total population of Northwestern Brooklyn?

Northwestern Brooklyn has a total population of 268,879 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 Northwestern Brooklyn?

The gender ratio in Northwestern Brooklyn is as follows:
  • 46.7% males (125,623 residents)
  • 53.3% females (143,256 residents)

What is the median age in Northwestern Brooklyn?

The median age in Northwestern Brooklyn is 35.2.

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

The age distribution in Northwestern Brooklyn is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.1% (45,862 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.8% (23,750 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 41.2% (110,897 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.9% (56,260 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.9% (32,110 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Northwestern Brooklyn?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Northwestern Brooklyn is as follows:
  • White: 57.7% (155,254 residents)
  • Black or African American: 14% (37,659 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (1,110 residents)
  • Asian: 9.2% (24,779 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (85 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.6% (33,982 residents)
  • Other: 6% (16,009 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 77.5% of the population in Northwestern Brooklyn.

How many housing units are there in Northwestern Brooklyn?

There are 130,637 housing units in Northwestern Brooklyn, reflecting a +2.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Northwestern Brooklyn has a total of 119,929 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Northwestern Brooklyn?

Northwestern Brooklyn has a median household income of $139,930, representing a +1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Northwestern Brooklyn?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 95.2% (146,931 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 4.8% (7,427 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.6% (19,393 residents)
  • Private companies: 62% (95,764 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.5% (16,227 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 14.9% (22,973 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