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

Total population
471,129
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,945/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
212,002
0.1% year-over-year change

Onondaga County population

How many people live in Onondaga County

Onondaga County is home to 471,129 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Onondaga County locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
471,129
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
228,760
Female
51.4%
242,369
Value Percent YoY change
Male 228,760 48.6% -0.0%
Female 242,369 51.4% -0.2%
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 Onondaga County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.2% are children under 15, then 13.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.2%
15 to 24
13.8%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
18.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 81,177 17.2% -1.1%
15 to 24 64,821 13.8% 0.1%
25 to 44 119,197 25.3% 0.6%
45 to 64 117,948 25% -2.1%
Over 65 87,986 18.7% 2.6%
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 Onondaga County, 90.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.8% of locals are Caucasian, 10.8% are African American and 4.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6%
Non-citizens
3.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 426,397 90.5% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 28,177 6% 2.3%
Non-citizens 16,555 3.5% 4.7%
Racial breakdown
White
74.8%
Black or African American
10.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
4.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.8%
Other
1.9%
Value Percent
White 352,626 74.8%
Black or African American 50,904 10.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,263 0.5%
Asian 19,457 4.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 215 0%
Two or more races 36,532 7.8%
Other 9,132 1.9%

Households in Onondaga County

A peek inside Onondaga County households

Onondaga County has 197,760 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.1% are families, while the remaining 41.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
197,760
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
82,788
Family households
114,972
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 82,788 41.9% 2.3%
Family households 114,972 58.1% 0.8%
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 Onondaga County

The housing landscape of Onondaga County

Onondaga County's housing consists of 212,002 units, with 63.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.2% 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 1.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
212,002
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 134,966 63.7%
1 unit, attached 8,942 4.2%
2 units 15,829 7.5%
3 or 4 units 10,500 5%
5 to 9 units 11,215 5.3%
10 to 19 units 9,211 4.3%
20 to 49 units 8,332 3.9%
50 or more units 10,612 5%
Mobile home 2,394 1.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,080
46.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Onondaga County

In Onondaga County, the median construction year is 1964. About 22.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 47,851 22.6% -0.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 12,532 5.9% -8.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 34,150 16.1% -3.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 27,002 12.7% 0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 26,675 12.6% 0.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 23,295 11% 2.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 15,808 7.5% 6.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 13,254 6.2% 0.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 10,355 4.9% 8.7%
Built in 2020 or later 1,080 0.5% 46.1%
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.

Onondaga County occupancy rates

Out of the 197,760 occupied housing units in Onondaga County, 65.9% are owner-occupied, while 34.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
197,760
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
67,371
Owner occupied
130,389
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 67,371 34.1% 0.6%
Owner occupied 130,389 65.9% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
6.7%
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.

Onondaga County housing costs

Housing costs in Onondaga County come to a median of $1,178 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,108.

Median housing costs per month
$1,178/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 Onondaga County
$1,108/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 Onondaga County

Onondaga County education at a glance

About 30% of the population in Onondaga County went to high school, while 19.1% pursued college studies. Another 11.5% earned an associate degree and 21% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 10,087 2.7% 3.1%
High school diploma 111,903 30% -1.4%
College diploma 71,071 19.1% -2.2%
Associate degree 43,012 11.5% -1.0%
Bachelor's degree 78,168 21% 2.8%
Graduate degree 58,334 15.7% 3.2%
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 Onondaga County

How much people earn in Onondaga County

The average annual household income in Onondaga County was $102,088 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,945, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Onondaga County
$102,088/year
3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Onondaga County
$76,945/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Onondaga County income by age

In Onondaga County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $85,905. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $94,075 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,924, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $58,273 in earnings. Overall, 86.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,924 9.5%
25 - 44 $85,905 5.0%
45 - 64 $94,075 2.7%
Over 65 $58,273 2.9%
Above poverty level
383,342
Below poverty level
61,055
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 383,342 86.3% -0.3%
Below poverty level 61,055 13.7% -1.1%

Employment in Onondaga County

Workforce and job types in Onondaga County

The job market in Onondaga County is powered by 226,402 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, 8.2% run their own businesses, 59.9% are employed by private companies, and 18.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
226,402
-0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
189,117
Blue collar
37,285
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 189,117 83.5% -0.3%
Blue collar 37,285 16.5% -3.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8.2%
Private companies
59.9%
Governmental workers
18.4%
Not for profit companies
13.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 18,566 8.2% 0.4%
Private companies 135,701 59.9% -2.2%
Governmental workers 41,607 18.4% -1.3%
Not for profit companies 30,528 13.5% 5.3%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
1.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Onondaga 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 Onondaga County

How people get around in Onondaga County

Commuting methods vary: 79.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.6% 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 176,365 79.4% -3.0%
Taxicab 876 0.4% 4.8%
Bus or trolleybus 4,040 1.8% -5.1%
Subway or elevated 627 0.3% N/A
Railroad 6 0% N/A
Ferryboat 6 0% 20.0%
Motorcycle 142 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 713 0.3% 5.6%
Walk 7,981 3.6% -4.9%
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 Onondaga County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
13039 16,951 7,000 $107,500 $122,528
13041 12,330 4,576 $120,188 $132,121
13051 47 18 $0 $0
13057 14,253 6,376 $80,900 $95,482
13060 2,725 1,222 $64,448 $87,048
13020 86 35 $92,813 $77,900
13027 35,088 15,184 $91,797 $121,220
13029 7,725 3,081 $103,878 $120,978
13030 3,635 1,460 $68,306 $99,313
13031 16,285 7,255 $88,224 $114,125

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FAQs about Onondaga County demographics 

What is the total population of Onondaga County?

Onondaga County has a total population of 471,129 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Onondaga County?

The gender ratio in Onondaga County is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (228,760 residents)
  • 51.4% females (242,369 residents)

What is the median age in Onondaga County?

The median age in Onondaga County is 39.6.

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

The age distribution in Onondaga County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.2% (81,177 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.8% (64,821 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (119,197 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (117,948 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.7% (87,986 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Onondaga County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Onondaga County is as follows:
  • White: 74.8% (352,626 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.8% (50,904 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (2,263 residents)
  • Asian: 4.1% (19,457 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (215 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.8% (36,532 residents)
  • Other: 1.9% (9,132 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.5% of the population in Onondaga County.

How many housing units are there in Onondaga County?

There are 212,002 housing units in Onondaga County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Onondaga County has a total of 197,760 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Onondaga County?

Onondaga County has a median household income of $76,945, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.8% in Onondaga County, with a workforce of 226,402 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.5% (189,117 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.5% (37,285 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.2% (18,566 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.9% (135,701 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.4% (41,607 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.5% (30,528 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