New York City, NY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,483,844
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$80,483/yr
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,678,486
0.8% year-over-year change

New York City population

How many people live in New York City

New York City is home to 8,483,844 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48% of New York City locals are male, and 52% are female.

Total population
8,483,844
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48%
4,073,432
Female
52%
4,410,412
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,073,432 48% -0.4%
Female 4,410,412 52% -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 New York City is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.9% are children under 15, then 11.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.7% of the population, while another 24.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.9%
15 to 24
11.4%
25 to 44
30.7%
45 to 64
24.5%
Over 65
16.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,433,711 16.9% -1.8%
15 to 24 965,386 11.4% 0.0%
25 to 44 2,605,117 30.7% -0.8%
45 to 64 2,075,334 24.5% -1.1%
Over 65 1,404,296 16.6% 2.8%
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 New York City, 59.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 25% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 15.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 33.8% of locals are Caucasian, 21.9% are African American and 14.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.8% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 16.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
59.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
25%
Non-citizens
15.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,081,054 59.9% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,123,175 25% -0.5%
Non-citizens 1,279,615 15.1% 0.2%
Racial breakdown
White
33.8%
Black or African American
21.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
14.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
12.3%
Other
16.3%
Value Percent
White 2,868,257 33.8%
Black or African American 1,860,653 21.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 69,018 0.8%
Asian 1,249,477 14.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6,210 0.1%
Two or more races 1,043,744 12.3%
Other 1,386,485 16.3%

Households in New York City

A peek inside New York City households

New York City has 3,334,088 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.6% are families, while the remaining 42.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,334,088
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,411,845
Family households
1,922,243
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,411,845 42.4% 2.0%
Family households 1,922,243 57.6% -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 New York City

The housing landscape of New York City

New York City's housing consists of 3,678,486 units, with 9.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.2% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,678,486
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 334,809 9.1%
1 unit, attached 263,480 7.2%
2 units 444,246 12.1%
3 or 4 units 340,015 9.2%
5 to 9 units 246,610 6.7%
10 to 19 units 243,463 6.6%
20 to 49 units 590,079 16%
50 or more units 1,208,536 32.8%
Mobile home 5,689 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1,559 0%
Homes built since 2020
27,289
96.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in New York City

In New York City, the median construction year is 1952. About 38.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,405,250 38.2% 0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 337,299 9.2% -1.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 460,252 12.5% -1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 439,703 12% -1.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 258,997 7% 0.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 185,390 5% 0.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 131,889 3.6% -2.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 208,583 5.7% 3.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 223,834 6.1% 11.3%
Built in 2020 or later 27,289 0.7% 96.6%
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.

New York City occupancy rates

Out of the 3,334,088 occupied housing units in New York City, 32.8% are owner-occupied, while 67.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,334,088
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,241,032
Owner occupied
1,093,056
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,241,032 67.2% 0.6%
Owner occupied 1,093,056 32.8% 0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
9.4%
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.

New York City housing costs

Housing costs in New York City come to a median of $1,882 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,821.

Median housing costs per month
$1,882/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 New York City
$1,821/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.
From pricing shifts to community dynamics
Get a clearer picture of the rental market in New York City
See average rent

Education in New York City

New York City education at a glance

About 30.8% of the population in New York City went to high school, while 15.1% pursued college studies. Another 6.3% earned an associate degree and 23.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 551,526 8.2% 0.8%
High school diploma 2,081,991 30.8% -1.2%
College diploma 1,025,432 15.1% -1.4%
Associate degree 426,748 6.3% -1.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,595,110 23.6% 1.2%
Graduate degree 1,090,427 16.1% 1.6%
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 New York City

How much people earn in New York City

The average annual household income in New York City was $129,670 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $80,483, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in New York City
$129,670/year
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in New York City
$80,483/year
1.0% year-over-year change

New York City income by age

In New York City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $101,716. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $85,026 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $60,481, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,058 in earnings. Overall, 82.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $60,481 4.5%
25 - 44 $101,716 2.2%
45 - 64 $85,026 0.7%
Over 65 $50,058 1.3%
Above poverty level
6,777,453
Below poverty level
1,477,040
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,777,453 82.1% -1.0%
Below poverty level 1,477,040 17.9% 2.9%

Average renter income in New York City

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in New York City, their median household income was $60,494 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$60,494
Rent-to-income ratio
36.1%
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 New York City

Workforce and job types in New York City

The job market in New York City is powered by 4,039,236 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 85.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.2% run their own businesses, 64.1% are employed by private companies, and 13.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,039,236
-0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
3,471,089
Blue collar
568,147
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,471,089 85.9% -0.5%
Blue collar 568,147 14.1% -2.5%
Employer type
Self employees
10.2%
Private companies
64.1%
Governmental workers
13.8%
Not for profit companies
12%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 410,479 10.2% 1.9%
Private companies 2,587,713 64.1% -2.0%
Governmental workers 558,187 13.8% -0.2%
Not for profit companies 482,857 12% 3.2%
Unemployment rate
8.0%
4.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in New York City stands at 8%, 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 New York City

How people get around in New York City

In New York City, the average commute time is 40 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 25.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 9.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
40 min
-0.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,015,425 25.9% -2.0%
Taxicab 43,641 1.1% -4.4%
Bus or trolleybus 383,938 9.8% -1.0%
Subway or elevated 1,294,446 33% N/A
Railroad 33,372 0.8% -14.6%
Ferryboat 13,501 0.3% 1.3%
Motorcycle 4,317 0.1% 20.6%
Bicycle 62,249 1.6% 4.1%
Walk 362,256 9.2% -2.5%
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 New York City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
10001 30,511 15,737 $129,852 $226,529
10002 76,873 36,556 $48,386 $96,930
10003 53,560 24,503 $154,262 $248,832
10004 3,711 1,865 $250,001 $280,697
10005 9,439 5,248 $190,233 $280,590
10006 4,096 2,149 $190,170 $223,990
10007 7,406 3,344 $250,001 $493,446
10009 60,209 30,082 $92,876 $143,714
10010 30,702 15,632 $144,969 $256,179
10011 48,277 27,802 $145,987 $239,558

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FAQs about New York City demographics 

What is the total population of New York City?

New York City has a total population of 8,483,844 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 New York City?

The gender ratio in New York City is as follows:
  • 48% males (4,073,432 residents)
  • 52% females (4,410,412 residents)

What is the median age in New York City?

The median age in New York City is 38.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in New York City?

The age distribution in New York City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.9% (1,433,711 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.4% (965,386 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.7% (2,605,117 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.5% (2,075,334 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.6% (1,404,296 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of New York City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of New York City is as follows:
  • White: 33.8% (2,868,257 residents)
  • Black or African American: 21.9% (1,860,653 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (69,018 residents)
  • Asian: 14.7% (1,249,477 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (6,210 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.3% (1,043,744 residents)
  • Other: 16.3% (1,386,485 residents)

What percentage of the population in New York City are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 59.9% of the population in New York City.

How many housing units are there in New York City?

There are 3,678,486 housing units in New York City, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in New York City and what is the average household size?

New York City has a total of 3,334,088 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in New York City?

New York City has a median household income of $80,483, representing a +1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for New York City?

The employment rate is 92% in New York City, with a workforce of 4,039,236 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.9% (3,471,089 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.1% (568,147 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.2% (410,479 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.1% (2,587,713 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.8% (558,187 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12% (482,857 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