Horseheads, NY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,449
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,223/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,495
1.0% year-over-year change

Horseheads population

How many people live in Horseheads

Horseheads is home to 6,449 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Horseheads locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
6,449
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
3,118
Female
51.6%
3,331
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,118 48.4% -0.4%
Female 3,331 51.6% -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 Horseheads is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.2% are children under 15, then 16.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.6% of the population, while another 23.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.2%
15 to 24
16.1%
25 to 44
23.6%
45 to 64
23.7%
Over 65
25.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 721 11.2% -11.9%
15 to 24 1,039 16.1% 18.7%
25 to 44 1,519 23.6% 0.9%
45 to 64 1,531 23.7% -9.4%
Over 65 1,639 25.4% 2.1%
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 Horseheads, 95.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87% of locals are Caucasian, 2.8% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
2.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,168 95.6% 1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 138 2.1% -19.3%
Non-citizens 143 2.2% -33.5%
Racial breakdown
White
87%
Black or African American
2.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.7%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 5,611 87%
Black or African American 184 2.8%
Asian 91 1.4%
Two or more races 563 8.7%

Households in Horseheads

A peek inside Horseheads households

Horseheads has 3,195 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.6% are families, while the remaining 53.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,195
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,706
Family households
1,489
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,706 53.4% 1.0%
Family households 1,489 46.6% -2.6%
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 Horseheads

The housing landscape of Horseheads

Horseheads's housing consists of 3,495 units, with 62.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.3% 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 2.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,495
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,188 62.6%
1 unit, attached 11 0.3%
2 units 229 6.6%
3 or 4 units 256 7.3%
5 to 9 units 134 3.8%
10 to 19 units 322 9.2%
20 to 49 units 80 2.3%
50 or more units 177 5.1%
Mobile home 98 2.8%
Homes built since 2020
8
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Horseheads

In Horseheads, the median construction year is 1958. About 19% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.5% 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 664 19% 10.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 255 7.3% 17.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,035 29.6% -4.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 542 15.5% 0.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 445 12.7% 4.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 152 4.4% -37.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 119 3.4% 17.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 153 4.4% 21.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 122 3.5% 0.0%
Built in 2020 or later 8 0.2% N/A
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.

Horseheads occupancy rates

Out of the 3,195 occupied housing units in Horseheads, 60.4% are owner-occupied, while 39.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,195
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,264
Owner occupied
1,931
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,264 39.6% 5.1%
Owner occupied 1,931 60.4% -4.2%
Unoccupied housing units
8.6%
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.

Horseheads housing costs

Housing costs in Horseheads come to a median of $1,097 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,181.

Median housing costs per month
$1,097/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 Horseheads
$1,181/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 Horseheads

Horseheads education at a glance

About 41% of the population in Horseheads went to high school, while 18.4% pursued college studies. Another 13.6% earned an associate degree and 16.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 29 0.5% 31.8%
High school diploma 2,222 41% 1.0%
College diploma 1,000 18.4% -4.4%
Associate degree 737 13.6% -5.4%
Bachelor's degree 895 16.5% 4.3%
Graduate degree 538 9.9% -2.4%
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 Horseheads

How much people earn in Horseheads

The average annual household income in Horseheads was $70,754 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,223, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Horseheads
$70,754/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Horseheads
$61,223/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Horseheads income by age

In Horseheads, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,438. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,273 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $60,696, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,575 in earnings. Overall, 88.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $60,696 35.5%
25 - 44 $68,438 3.2%
45 - 64 $77,273 2.7%
Over 65 $46,575 3.5%
Above poverty level
5,524
Below poverty level
744
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,524 88.1% -2.7%
Below poverty level 744 11.9% 11.9%

Average renter income in Horseheads

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Horseheads, their median household income was $47,727 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$47,727
Rent-to-income ratio
29.7%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Horseheads

Workforce and job types in Horseheads

The job market in Horseheads is powered by 3,228 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 2.9% run their own businesses, 69% are employed by private companies, and 15.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,228
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
2,727
Blue collar
501
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,727 84.5% -0.6%
Blue collar 501 15.5% 10.8%
Employer type
Self employees
2.9%
Private companies
69%
Governmental workers
15.8%
Not for profit companies
12.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 95 2.9% 25.0%
Private companies 2,228 69% 3.8%
Governmental workers 509 15.8% -10.9%
Not for profit companies 396 12.3% -1.5%
Unemployment rate
2.6%
-8.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Horseheads stands at 2.6%, 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 Horseheads

How people get around in Horseheads

Commuting methods vary: 90.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,883 90.6% -1.3%
Bus or trolleybus 79 2.5% 8.2%
Bicycle 5 0.2% 25.0%
Walk 8 0.2% 33.3%
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 Horseheads by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
14845 20,327 9,030 $76,832 $103,737

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Horseheads demographics 

What is the total population of Horseheads?

Horseheads has a total population of 6,449 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Horseheads?

The gender ratio in Horseheads is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (3,118 residents)
  • 51.6% females (3,331 residents)

What is the median age in Horseheads?

The median age in Horseheads is 44.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Horseheads?

The age distribution in Horseheads is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.2% (721 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.1% (1,039 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.6% (1,519 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.7% (1,531 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.4% (1,639 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Horseheads?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Horseheads is as follows:
  • White: 87% (5,611 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.8% (184 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (91 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.7% (563 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.6% of the population in Horseheads.

How many housing units are there in Horseheads?

There are 3,495 housing units in Horseheads, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Horseheads has a total of 3,195 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Horseheads?

Horseheads has a median household income of $61,223, representing a +3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Horseheads?

The employment rate is 97.4% in Horseheads, with a workforce of 3,228 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.5% (2,727 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.5% (501 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 2.9% (95 residents)
  • Private companies: 69% (2,228 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.8% (509 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.3% (396 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