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

Total population
482,256
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$83,665/yr
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
177,360
0.2% year-over-year change

Southwestern Brooklyn population

How many people live in Southwestern Brooklyn

Southwestern Brooklyn is home to 482,256 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Southwestern Brooklyn locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
482,256
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
241,319
Female
50%
240,937
Value Percent YoY change
Male 241,319 50% -0.0%
Female 240,937 50% -0.4%
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 Southwestern Brooklyn is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.5% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.5% of the population, while another 23% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.5%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
27.5%
45 to 64
23%
Over 65
15.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 108,656 22.5% -1.8%
15 to 24 55,607 11.5% 2.5%
25 to 44 132,710 27.5% -1.1%
45 to 64 111,026 23% -0.5%
Over 65 74,256 15.4% 2.4%
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 Southwestern Brooklyn, 57.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 23.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 18.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 48.4% of locals are Caucasian, 2.5% are African American and 25.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
57.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
23.6%
Non-citizens
18.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 277,967 57.6% -0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 113,869 23.6% -1.2%
Non-citizens 90,420 18.8% 0.6%
Racial breakdown
White
48.4%
Black or African American
2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
25.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.2%
Other
14.7%
Value Percent
White 233,296 48.4%
Black or African American 12,184 2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,976 1.2%
Asian 124,902 25.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 29 0%
Two or more races 34,763 7.2%
Other 71,106 14.7%

Households in Southwestern Brooklyn

A peek inside Southwestern Brooklyn households

Southwestern Brooklyn has 161,336 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.6% are families, while the remaining 31.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
161,336
-0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
50,621
Family households
110,715
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 50,621 31.4% 1.3%
Family households 110,715 68.6% -1.0%
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 Southwestern Brooklyn

The housing landscape of Southwestern Brooklyn

Southwestern Brooklyn's housing consists of 177,360 units, with 4.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.2% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
177,360
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,770 4.4%
1 unit, attached 19,893 11.2%
2 units 38,697 21.8%
3 or 4 units 33,722 19%
5 to 9 units 20,237 11.4%
10 to 19 units 10,925 6.2%
20 to 49 units 22,762 12.8%
50 or more units 22,802 12.9%
Mobile home 534 0.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 17 0%
Homes built since 2020
397
157.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Southwestern Brooklyn

In Southwestern Brooklyn, the median construction year is 1938. About 62.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 110,891 62.5% 3.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 13,458 7.6% -10.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 13,609 7.7% -4.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 11,619 6.6% -6.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,887 3.9% -4.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,508 3.1% -5.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,135 2.3% -0.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,593 3.7% 0.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 4,263 2.4% 4.8%
Built in 2020 or later 397 0.2% 157.8%
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.

Southwestern Brooklyn occupancy rates

Out of the 161,336 occupied housing units in Southwestern Brooklyn, 34.3% are owner-occupied, while 65.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
161,336
-0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
105,950
Owner occupied
55,386
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 105,950 65.7% -0.4%
Owner occupied 55,386 34.3% -0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
9.0%
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.

Southwestern Brooklyn housing costs

Housing costs in Southwestern Brooklyn come to a median of $1,866 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,861.

Median housing costs per month
$1,866/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 Southwestern Brooklyn
$1,861/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 Southwestern Brooklyn

Southwestern Brooklyn education at a glance

About 34.6% of the population in Southwestern Brooklyn went to high school, while 11.4% pursued college studies. Another 5.2% earned an associate degree and 21.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 47,741 13.5% 0.4%
High school diploma 122,677 34.6% 0.8%
College diploma 40,276 11.4% -2.3%
Associate degree 18,570 5.2% 1.4%
Bachelor's degree 75,419 21.3% 0.0%
Graduate degree 49,408 14% 1.1%
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 Southwestern Brooklyn

How much people earn in Southwestern Brooklyn

The average annual household income in Southwestern Brooklyn was $118,391 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $83,665, reflecting a +3.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Southwestern Brooklyn
$118,391/year
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Southwestern Brooklyn
$83,665/year
3.6% year-over-year change

Southwestern Brooklyn income by age

In Southwestern Brooklyn, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,313. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $91,030 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,480, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,852 in earnings. Overall, 79.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,480 -13.9%
25 - 44 $90,313 -4.1%
45 - 64 $91,030 6.4%
Over 65 $45,852 7.4%
Above poverty level
374,196
Below poverty level
95,976
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 374,196 79.6% -1.2%
Below poverty level 95,976 20.4% 3.5%

Employment in Southwestern Brooklyn

Workforce and job types in Southwestern Brooklyn

83.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.2% run their own businesses, 62.7% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
178,661
Blue collar
35,290
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 178,661 83.5% 0.1%
Blue collar 35,290 16.5% 0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
12.2%
Private companies
62.7%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
13.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 26,041 12.2% 3.0%
Private companies 134,196 62.7% -1.0%
Governmental workers 24,652 11.5% -1.8%
Not for profit companies 29,062 13.6% 5.0%

Transportation in Southwestern Brooklyn

How people get around in Southwestern Brooklyn

In Southwestern Brooklyn, the average commute time is 286 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 49.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 27.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
286 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 49,954 49.7% -0.6%
Taxicab 1,501 1.5% 7.2%
Bus or trolleybus 15,893 15.8% 1.4%
Railroad 822 0.8% -32.4%
Ferryboat 254 0.2% -10.6%
Motorcycle 487 0.5% 64.5%
Bicycle 4,146 4.1% -3.7%
Walk 27,508 27.4% 2.0%
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 Southwestern Brooklyn by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
11209 71,004 30,410 $93,854 $130,125
11214 89,397 30,852 $65,895 $99,108
11215 70,441 29,788 $185,865 $249,651
11218 72,042 25,661 $97,366 $155,509
11219 94,196 24,507 $58,347 $87,329
11220 90,652 28,420 $69,883 $94,026
11228 42,241 15,007 $83,665 $122,999
11232 27,816 9,309 $90,891 $126,677
11204 79,800 24,896 $69,479 $92,943

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FAQs about Southwestern Brooklyn demographics 

What is the total population of Southwestern Brooklyn?

Southwestern Brooklyn has a total population of 482,256 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Southwestern Brooklyn?

The gender ratio in Southwestern Brooklyn is as follows:
  • 50% males (241,319 residents)
  • 50% females (240,937 residents)

What is the median age in Southwestern Brooklyn?

The median age in Southwestern Brooklyn is 37.4.

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

The age distribution in Southwestern Brooklyn is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.5% (108,656 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (55,607 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.5% (132,710 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23% (111,026 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.4% (74,256 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Southwestern Brooklyn?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Southwestern Brooklyn is as follows:
  • White: 48.4% (233,296 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.5% (12,184 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (5,976 residents)
  • Asian: 25.9% (124,902 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (29 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.2% (34,763 residents)
  • Other: 14.7% (71,106 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 57.6% of the population in Southwestern Brooklyn.

How many housing units are there in Southwestern Brooklyn?

There are 177,360 housing units in Southwestern Brooklyn, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Southwestern Brooklyn has a total of 161,336 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Southwestern Brooklyn?

Southwestern Brooklyn has a median household income of $83,665, representing a +3.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Southwestern Brooklyn?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.5% (178,661 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.5% (35,290 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.2% (26,041 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.7% (134,196 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (24,652 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.6% (29,062 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