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

Total population
59,757
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,515/yr
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
32,459
0.0% year-over-year change

Herkimer County population

How many people live in Herkimer County

Herkimer County is home to 59,757 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Herkimer County locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
59,757
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
29,940
Female
49.9%
29,817
Value Percent YoY change
Male 29,940 50.1% -0.2%
Female 29,817 49.9% -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 Herkimer County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.5% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.1% of the population, while another 27.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.5%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
22.1%
45 to 64
27.4%
Over 65
22.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,866 16.5% -1.2%
15 to 24 6,981 11.7% -0.6%
25 to 44 13,197 22.1% -0.1%
45 to 64 16,395 27.4% -2.2%
Over 65 13,318 22.3% 2.9%
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 Herkimer County, 96.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.8% of locals are Caucasian, 1.3% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.7%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 57,631 96.4% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,620 2.7% 8.2%
Non-citizens 506 0.8% -12.3%
Racial breakdown
White
91.8%
Black or African American
1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
5.1%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 54,844 91.8%
Black or African American 751 1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 45 0.1%
Asian 369 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 71 0.1%
Two or more races 3,067 5.1%
Other 610 1%

Households in Herkimer County

A peek inside Herkimer County households

Herkimer County has 25,741 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62% are families, while the remaining 38% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
25,741
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,778
Family households
15,963
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,778 38% 2.8%
Family households 15,963 62% 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 Herkimer County

The housing landscape of Herkimer County

Herkimer County's housing consists of 32,459 units, with 72.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.1% 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 8.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
32,459
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 23,442 72.2%
1 unit, attached 349 1.1%
2 units 2,101 6.5%
3 or 4 units 1,652 5.1%
5 to 9 units 598 1.8%
10 to 19 units 430 1.3%
20 to 49 units 381 1.2%
50 or more units 662 2%
Mobile home 2,840 8.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 4 0%
Homes built since 2020
268
49.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Herkimer County

In Herkimer County, the median construction year is 1954. About 39.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.3% 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 12,721 39.2% 2.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,111 6.5% 2.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,144 9.7% 1.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,743 8.4% -5.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,996 9.2% -6.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,875 8.9% -11.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,470 7.6% 10.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,054 6.3% -5.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,077 3.3% 11.9%
Built in 2020 or later 268 0.8% 49.7%
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.

Herkimer County occupancy rates

Out of the 25,741 occupied housing units in Herkimer County, 76.6% are owner-occupied, while 23.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 20.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
25,741
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,018
Owner occupied
19,723
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,018 23.4% -1.8%
Owner occupied 19,723 76.6% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
20.7%
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.

Herkimer County housing costs

Housing costs in Herkimer County come to a median of $866 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $823.

Median housing costs per month
$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 Herkimer County
$823/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 Herkimer County

Herkimer County education at a glance

About 40.8% of the population in Herkimer County went to high school, while 18.9% pursued college studies. Another 16.1% earned an associate degree and 12.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,349 2.8% 16.9%
High school diploma 19,390 40.8% -0.1%
College diploma 9,005 18.9% -1.4%
Associate degree 7,644 16.1% -0.1%
Bachelor's degree 5,932 12.5% -1.1%
Graduate degree 4,254 8.9% -0.1%
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 Herkimer County

How much people earn in Herkimer County

The average annual household income in Herkimer County was $86,447 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,515, reflecting a -0.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Herkimer County
$86,447/year
2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Herkimer County
$68,515/year
-0.5% year-over-year change

Herkimer County income by age

In Herkimer County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $79,014. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,594 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,882, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,772 in earnings. Overall, 86.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,882 6.3%
25 - 44 $79,014 0.2%
45 - 64 $86,594 -2.1%
Over 65 $47,772 1.3%
Above poverty level
50,444
Below poverty level
7,823
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 50,444 86.6% -0.4%
Below poverty level 7,823 13.4% 0.9%

Employment in Herkimer County

Workforce and job types in Herkimer County

The job market in Herkimer County is powered by 27,628 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10% run their own businesses, 59.4% are employed by private companies, and 20% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
27,628
-1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
20,758
Blue collar
6,870
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 20,758 75.1% -0.2%
Blue collar 6,870 24.9% -3.6%
Employer type
Self employees
10%
Private companies
59.4%
Governmental workers
20%
Not for profit companies
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,769 10% 14.8%
Private companies 16,414 59.4% -4.0%
Governmental workers 5,525 20% 3.1%
Not for profit companies 2,920 10.6% -4.1%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
-3.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Herkimer County stands at 4.3%, 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 Herkimer County

How people get around in Herkimer County

In Herkimer County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
2.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 23,068 85.5% -2.7%
Taxicab 34 0.1% 209.1%
Bus or trolleybus 59 0.2% 110.7%
Subway or elevated 17 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 6 0% -68.4%
Bicycle 95 0.4% 4.4%
Walk 865 3.2% 3.7%
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 Herkimer County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
13322 1,172 429 $91,369 $109,650
13324 1,729 778 $86,176 $125,106
13329 3,256 1,381 $60,104 $79,125
13331 204 102 $61,250 $69,378
13338 1,280 582 $58,333 $75,511
13339 6,010 2,354 $56,047 $73,187
13340 7,404 3,295 $69,821 $86,788
13350 9,522 4,143 $56,157 $73,078
13361 725 254 $92,000 $101,259
13357 10,167 4,652 $63,678 $84,191

Explore more communities

FAQs about Herkimer County demographics 

What is the total population of Herkimer County?

Herkimer County has a total population of 59,757 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Herkimer County?

The gender ratio in Herkimer County is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (29,940 residents)
  • 49.9% females (29,817 residents)

What is the median age in Herkimer County?

The median age in Herkimer County is 44.8.

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

The age distribution in Herkimer County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.5% (9,866 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (6,981 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.1% (13,197 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.4% (16,395 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.3% (13,318 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Herkimer County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Herkimer County is as follows:
  • White: 91.8% (54,844 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.3% (751 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (45 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (369 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (71 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.1% (3,067 residents)
  • Other: 1% (610 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.4% of the population in Herkimer County.

How many housing units are there in Herkimer County?

There are 32,459 housing units in Herkimer County, reflecting a +0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Herkimer County has a total of 25,741 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Herkimer County?

Herkimer County has a median household income of $68,515, representing a -0.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.7% in Herkimer County, with a workforce of 27,628 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.1% (20,758 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.9% (6,870 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10% (2,769 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.4% (16,414 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20% (5,525 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.6% (2,920 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