Washington Heights, Orange County, NY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,383
-25.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$81,686/yr
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
688
-25.6% year-over-year change

Washington Heights population

How many people live in Washington Heights

Washington Heights is home to 2,383 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Washington Heights locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
2,383
-25.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
1,211
Female
49.2%
1,172
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,211 50.8% -22.5%
Female 1,172 49.2% -28.0%
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 Washington Heights is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.7% are children under 15, then 9.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 34.8% of the population, while another 22.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 7.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.7%
15 to 24
9.8%
25 to 44
34.8%
45 to 64
22.7%
Over 65
7.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 589 24.7% -7.5%
15 to 24 234 9.8% -54.6%
25 to 44 830 34.8% -22.0%
45 to 64 542 22.7% -26.4%
Over 65 188 7.9% -20.3%
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 Washington Heights, 74.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 16.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 23.2% of locals are Caucasian, 41.2% are African American and 5.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 20.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
74.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
16.2%
Non-citizens
9.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,766 74.1% -28.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 385 16.2% -17.4%
Non-citizens 232 9.7% -13.4%
Racial breakdown
White
23.2%
Black or African American
41.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
5.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
20.5%
Other
10%
Value Percent
White 553 23.2%
Black or African American 982 41.2%
Asian 122 5.1%
Two or more races 489 20.5%
Other 237 10%

Households in Washington Heights

A peek inside Washington Heights households

Washington Heights has 675 households, with an average of 4 members in each. Of these, 82.7% are families, while the remaining 17.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
675
-26.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
4
Non-family households
117
Family households
558
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 117 17.3% -17.0%
Family households 558 82.7% -27.6%
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 Washington Heights

The housing landscape of Washington Heights

Washington Heights's housing consists of 688 units, with 75% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 23.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
688
-25.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 516 75%
1 unit, attached 161 23.4%
3 or 4 units 11 1.6%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Washington Heights

In Washington Heights, the median construction year is 1973. About 16% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 110 16% -43.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 15 2.2% -54.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 204 29.6% 19.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 45 6.5% -41.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 70 10.2% 32.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 95 13.8% 3.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 149 21.7% -44.2%
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.

Washington Heights occupancy rates

Out of the 675 occupied housing units in Washington Heights, 71.7% are owner-occupied, while 28.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 1.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
675
-26.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
191
Owner occupied
484
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 191 28.3% 3.8%
Owner occupied 484 71.7% -33.5%
Unoccupied housing units
1.9%
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.

Washington Heights housing costs

Housing costs in Washington Heights come to a median of $2,323 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,554.

Median housing costs per month
$2,323/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 Washington Heights
$2,554/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 Washington Heights

Washington Heights education at a glance

About 40.4% of the population in Washington Heights went to high school, while 8.3% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 24% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 150 8.6% -12.8%
High school diploma 704 40.4% -35.2%
College diploma 145 8.3% -56.2%
Associate degree 147 8.4% -3.3%
Bachelor's degree 418 24% -25.9%
Graduate degree 179 10.3% 28.8%
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 Washington Heights

How much people earn in Washington Heights

The average annual household income in Washington Heights was $115,653 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $81,686, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Washington Heights
$115,653/year
-1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Washington Heights
$81,686/year
3.8% year-over-year change

Washington Heights income by age

In Washington Heights, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,818. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $150,696 overall. Overall, 86.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $81,818 3.3%
45 - 64 $150,696 3.3%
Over 65 $53,409 -14.7%
Above poverty level
2,030
Below poverty level
311
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,030 86.7% -19.0%
Below poverty level 311 13.3% -41.1%

Average renter income in Washington Heights

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Washington Heights, their median household income was $30,282 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 101.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$30,282
Rent-to-income ratio
101.2%
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 Washington Heights

Workforce and job types in Washington Heights

The job market in Washington Heights is powered by 1,140 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 59.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 40.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 4% run their own businesses, 63.2% are employed by private companies, and 13.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,140
-23.0% year-over-year change
White collar
674
Blue collar
466
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 674 59.1% -26.2%
Blue collar 466 40.9% -18.0%
Employer type
Self employees
4%
Private companies
63.2%
Governmental workers
13.9%
Not for profit companies
19%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 45 4% 350.0%
Private companies 720 63.2% -26.8%
Governmental workers 158 13.9% -41.7%
Not for profit companies 217 19% 0.0%
Unemployment rate
4.0%
-56.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Washington Heights stands at 4%, 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 Washington Heights

How people get around in Washington Heights

Commuting methods vary: 84.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% 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 910 84.7% -18.6%
Taxicab 16 1.5% -66.7%
Bus or trolleybus 95 8.8% 21.8%
Railroad 14 1.3% -73.1%
Walk 16 1.5% -78.4%
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.

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FAQs about Washington Heights demographics 

What is the total population of Washington Heights?

Washington Heights has a total population of 2,383 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 -25.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Washington Heights?

The gender ratio in Washington Heights is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (1,211 residents)
  • 49.2% females (1,172 residents)

What is the median age in Washington Heights?

The median age in Washington Heights is 34.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Washington Heights?

The age distribution in Washington Heights is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.7% (589 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.8% (234 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 34.8% (830 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.7% (542 residents)
  • Over 65: 7.9% (188 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Washington Heights?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Washington Heights is as follows:
  • White: 23.2% (553 residents)
  • Black or African American: 41.2% (982 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 5.1% (122 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 20.5% (489 residents)
  • Other: 10% (237 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 74.1% of the population in Washington Heights.

How many housing units are there in Washington Heights?

There are 688 housing units in Washington Heights, reflecting a -25.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Washington Heights has a total of 675 households, with an average of 4 people in each.

What is the median household income in Washington Heights?

Washington Heights has a median household income of $81,686, representing a +3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Washington Heights?

The employment rate is 96% in Washington Heights, with a workforce of 1,140 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 59.1% (674 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 40.9% (466 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 4% (45 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.2% (720 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.9% (158 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 19% (217 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