Dutchess County, NY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
298,220
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$99,478/yr
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
123,169
0.4% year-over-year change

Dutchess County population

How many people live in Dutchess County

Dutchess County is home to 298,220 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Dutchess County locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
298,220
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
148,376
Female
50.2%
149,844
Value Percent YoY change
Male 148,376 49.8% 0.3%
Female 149,844 50.2% 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 Dutchess County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.8% are children under 15, then 13.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 27.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.8%
15 to 24
13.9%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
27.9%
Over 65
19.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 43,981 14.8% -0.8%
15 to 24 41,423 13.9% 0.0%
25 to 44 72,691 24.4% 1.4%
45 to 64 83,073 27.9% -1.5%
Over 65 57,052 19.1% 3.0%
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 Dutchess County, 86.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 68.8% of locals are Caucasian, 9.8% are African American and 3.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
86.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.9%
Non-citizens
4.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 257,573 86.4% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 26,478 8.9% 0.7%
Non-citizens 14,169 4.8% -2.8%
Racial breakdown
White
68.8%
Black or African American
9.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
3.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.3%
Other
5.9%
Value Percent
White 205,306 68.8%
Black or African American 29,357 9.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,824 0.6%
Asian 10,300 3.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 118 0%
Two or more races 33,666 11.3%
Other 17,649 5.9%

Households in Dutchess County

A peek inside Dutchess County households

Dutchess County has 116,275 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.6% are families, while the remaining 37.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
116,275
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
43,453
Family households
72,822
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 43,453 37.4% 4.4%
Family households 72,822 62.6% -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 Dutchess County

The housing landscape of Dutchess County

Dutchess County's housing consists of 123,169 units, with 62.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.7% 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 3.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
123,169
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 77,317 62.8%
1 unit, attached 7,058 5.7%
2 units 6,843 5.6%
3 or 4 units 9,228 7.5%
5 to 9 units 6,737 5.5%
10 to 19 units 4,721 3.8%
20 to 49 units 3,358 2.7%
50 or more units 4,105 3.3%
Mobile home 3,797 3.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 5 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,000
70.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dutchess County

In Dutchess County, the median construction year is 1971. About 17.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 22,095 17.9% 0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,514 4.5% -7.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 14,855 12.1% -1.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 16,757 13.6% 0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 19,208 15.6% -2.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 15,652 12.7% 3.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 10,752 8.7% -3.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 11,496 9.3% 6.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,840 4.7% 7.2%
Built in 2020 or later 1,000 0.8% 70.9%
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.

Dutchess County occupancy rates

Out of the 116,275 occupied housing units in Dutchess County, 69.2% are owner-occupied, while 30.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
116,275
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
35,828
Owner occupied
80,447
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 35,828 30.8% -0.2%
Owner occupied 80,447 69.2% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
5.6%
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.

Dutchess County housing costs

Housing costs in Dutchess County come to a median of $1,785 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,582.

Median housing costs per month
$1,785/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 Dutchess County
$1,582/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 Dutchess County

Dutchess County education at a glance

About 31% of the population in Dutchess County went to high school, while 19.2% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 21% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 6,242 2.6% -4.6%
High school diploma 75,364 31% -0.2%
College diploma 46,700 19.2% -3.3%
Associate degree 22,044 9.1% -4.9%
Bachelor's degree 51,224 21% 6.6%
Graduate degree 41,830 17.2% 4.1%
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 Dutchess County

How much people earn in Dutchess County

The average annual household income in Dutchess County was $134,011 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $99,478, reflecting a +2.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dutchess County
$134,011/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dutchess County
$99,478/year
2.3% year-over-year change

Dutchess County income by age

In Dutchess County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $107,201. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $122,048 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,578, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $69,468 in earnings. Overall, 91.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,578 -4.0%
25 - 44 $107,201 2.9%
45 - 64 $122,048 2.1%
Over 65 $69,468 3.4%
Above poverty level
256,148
Below poverty level
23,703
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 256,148 91.5% -0.0%
Below poverty level 23,703 8.5% 2.1%

Employment in Dutchess County

Workforce and job types in Dutchess County

The job market in Dutchess County is powered by 149,270 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 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, 10.2% run their own businesses, 59.7% are employed by private companies, and 17.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
149,270
-0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
124,674
Blue collar
24,596
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 124,674 83.5% -0.3%
Blue collar 24,596 16.5% -0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
10.2%
Private companies
59.7%
Governmental workers
17.5%
Not for profit companies
12.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 15,146 10.2% 5.2%
Private companies 89,084 59.7% -2.3%
Governmental workers 26,163 17.5% 1.7%
Not for profit companies 18,877 12.6% 1.8%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
9.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dutchess County stands at 5.2%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Dutchess County

How people get around in Dutchess County

In Dutchess County, the average commute time is 31 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
31 min
-0.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 111,067 76.1% -2.1%
Taxicab 610 0.4% -6.9%
Bus or trolleybus 828 0.6% -15.9%
Subway or elevated 1,030 0.7% N/A
Railroad 3,652 2.5% 11.6%
Ferryboat 10 0% N/A
Motorcycle 72 0% 60.0%
Bicycle 319 0.2% -16.1%
Walk 4,787 3.3% 3.4%
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 Dutchess County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
12527 40 18 $0 $0
12531 2,337 881 $129,028 $193,016
12522 4,959 1,900 $76,157 $122,405
12507 227 77 $116,198 $151,431
12524 15,026 6,496 $99,034 $125,584
12508 19,566 8,468 $92,461 $124,884
12512 194 117 $99,025 $185,251
12514 3,107 1,339 $120,439 $173,681
12501 2,476 1,024 $75,104 $142,924
12504 961 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about Dutchess County demographics 

What is the total population of Dutchess County?

Dutchess County has a total population of 298,220 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dutchess County?

The gender ratio in Dutchess County is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (148,376 residents)
  • 50.2% females (149,844 residents)

What is the median age in Dutchess County?

The median age in Dutchess County is 42.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Dutchess County?

The age distribution in Dutchess County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.8% (43,981 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.9% (41,423 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (72,691 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.9% (83,073 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.1% (57,052 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dutchess County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dutchess County is as follows:
  • White: 68.8% (205,306 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.8% (29,357 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (1,824 residents)
  • Asian: 3.4% (10,300 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (118 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.3% (33,666 residents)
  • Other: 5.9% (17,649 residents)

What percentage of the population in Dutchess County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 86.4% of the population in Dutchess County.

How many housing units are there in Dutchess County?

There are 123,169 housing units in Dutchess County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Dutchess County and what is the average household size?

Dutchess County has a total of 116,275 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dutchess County?

Dutchess County has a median household income of $99,478, representing a +2.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Dutchess County?

The employment rate is 94.8% in Dutchess County, with a workforce of 149,270 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.5% (124,674 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.5% (24,596 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.2% (15,146 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.7% (89,084 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.5% (26,163 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.6% (18,877 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