Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, NY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
60,609
-3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,132/yr
-3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
27,465
-0.5% year-over-year change

Sheepshead Bay population

How many people live in Sheepshead Bay

Sheepshead Bay is home to 60,609 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48% of Sheepshead Bay locals are male, and 52% are female.

Total population
60,609
-3.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48%
29,080
Female
52%
31,529
Value Percent YoY change
Male 29,080 48% -3.1%
Female 31,529 52% -3.4%
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 Sheepshead Bay is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.7% are children under 15, then 8.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24% of the population, while another 27% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
45
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.7%
15 to 24
8.5%
25 to 44
24%
45 to 64
27%
Over 65
24.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,496 15.7% -6.0%
15 to 24 5,158 8.5% -7.7%
25 to 44 14,572 24% -4.3%
45 to 64 16,379 27% -2.4%
Over 65 15,003 24.8% 0.3%
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 Sheepshead Bay, 40.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 41.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 17.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 64.5% of locals are Caucasian, 4.7% are African American and 17.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
40.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
41.7%
Non-citizens
17.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 24,742 40.8% -2.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 25,281 41.7% -4.8%
Non-citizens 10,587 17.5% -1.6%
Racial breakdown
White
64.5%
Black or African American
4.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
17.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.7%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 39,086 64.5%
Black or African American 2,835 4.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 71 0.1%
Asian 10,644 17.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 25 0%
Two or more races 5,297 8.7%
Other 2,650 4.4%

Households in Sheepshead Bay

A peek inside Sheepshead Bay households

Sheepshead Bay has 25,662 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.3% are families, while the remaining 38.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
25,662
-1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,942
Family households
15,721
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,942 38.7% 4.7%
Family households 15,721 61.3% -4.7%
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 Sheepshead Bay

The housing landscape of Sheepshead Bay

Sheepshead Bay's housing consists of 27,465 units, with 9.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.6% 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
27,465
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,643 9.6%
1 unit, attached 2,633 9.6%
2 units 3,672 13.4%
3 or 4 units 2,430 8.8%
5 to 9 units 785 2.9%
10 to 19 units 951 3.5%
20 to 49 units 3,813 13.9%
50 or more units 10,511 38.3%
Mobile home 22 0.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 4 0%
Homes built since 2020
143
49.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sheepshead Bay

In Sheepshead Bay, the median construction year is 1952. About 29% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 7,962 29% -5.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,383 12.3% -9.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 7,649 27.8% 12.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,994 14.5% -5.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,288 4.7% 17.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 588 2.1% 0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 474 1.7% -5.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,252 4.6% -9.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 730 2.7% -2.3%
Built in 2020 or later 143 0.5% 49.0%
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.

Sheepshead Bay occupancy rates

Out of the 25,662 occupied housing units in Sheepshead Bay, 39% are owner-occupied, while 61% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
25,662
-1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
15,655
Owner occupied
10,007
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 15,655 61% 1.1%
Owner occupied 10,007 39% -4.9%
Unoccupied housing units
6.6%
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.

Sheepshead Bay housing costs

Housing costs in Sheepshead Bay come to a median of $1,634 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,671.

Median housing costs per month
$1,634/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 Sheepshead Bay
$1,671/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 Sheepshead Bay

Sheepshead Bay education at a glance

About 25.4% of the population in Sheepshead Bay went to high school, while 16.8% pursued college studies. Another 9.3% earned an associate degree and 25.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,653 5.4% -10.5%
High school diploma 12,552 25.4% -7.1%
College diploma 8,292 16.8% 16.1%
Associate degree 4,603 9.3% 2.1%
Bachelor's degree 12,644 25.6% -6.0%
Graduate degree 8,681 17.6% -5.3%
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 Sheepshead Bay

How much people earn in Sheepshead Bay

The average annual household income in Sheepshead Bay was $88,952 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,132, reflecting a -3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sheepshead Bay
$88,952/year
-4.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sheepshead Bay
$65,132/year
-3.0% year-over-year change

Sheepshead Bay income by age

In Sheepshead Bay, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,644. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $83,024 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,124, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,338 in earnings. Overall, 82.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,124 4.1%
25 - 44 $80,644 -2.4%
45 - 64 $83,024 -4.0%
Over 65 $37,338 2.8%
Above poverty level
48,908
Below poverty level
10,465
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 48,908 82.4% -4.0%
Below poverty level 10,465 17.6% 1.1%

Employment in Sheepshead Bay

Workforce and job types in Sheepshead Bay

81.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.8% run their own businesses, 63.5% are employed by private companies, and 13.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
21,294
Blue collar
4,930
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,294 81.2% -5.5%
Blue collar 4,930 18.8% -3.8%
Employer type
Self employees
9.8%
Private companies
63.5%
Governmental workers
13.8%
Not for profit companies
12.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,580 9.8% -5.7%
Private companies 16,661 63.5% -6.2%
Governmental workers 3,610 13.8% -5.7%
Not for profit companies 3,374 12.9% 0.9%

Transportation in Sheepshead Bay

How people get around in Sheepshead Bay

In Sheepshead Bay, the average commute time is 32 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 58.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 22.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
32 min
-3.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,119 58.6% -4.9%
Taxicab 192 1.4% 26.3%
Bus or trolleybus 1,983 14.3% -9.1%
Railroad 46 0.3% -14.8%
Ferryboat 33 0.2% 17.9%
Motorcycle 30 0.2% -3.2%
Bicycle 277 2% -12.1%
Walk 3,172 22.9% 7.1%
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 Sheepshead Bay by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
11235 78,558 34,870 $59,661 $91,465
11229 78,377 30,523 $70,603 $103,555

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Sheepshead Bay demographics 

What is the total population of Sheepshead Bay?

Sheepshead Bay has a total population of 60,609 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 -3.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sheepshead Bay?

The gender ratio in Sheepshead Bay is as follows:
  • 48% males (29,080 residents)
  • 52% females (31,529 residents)

What is the median age in Sheepshead Bay?

The median age in Sheepshead Bay is 45.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sheepshead Bay?

The age distribution in Sheepshead Bay is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.7% (9,496 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.5% (5,158 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24% (14,572 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27% (16,379 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.8% (15,003 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sheepshead Bay?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sheepshead Bay is as follows:
  • White: 64.5% (39,086 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.7% (2,835 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (71 residents)
  • Asian: 17.6% (10,644 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (25 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.7% (5,297 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (2,650 residents)

What percentage of the population in Sheepshead Bay are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 40.8% of the population in Sheepshead Bay.

How many housing units are there in Sheepshead Bay?

There are 27,465 housing units in Sheepshead Bay, reflecting a -0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Sheepshead Bay and what is the average household size?

Sheepshead Bay has a total of 25,662 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sheepshead Bay?

Sheepshead Bay has a median household income of $65,132, representing a -3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Sheepshead Bay?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.2% (21,294 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.8% (4,930 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.8% (2,580 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.5% (16,661 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.8% (3,610 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.9% (3,374 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