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

Total population
39,608
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,969/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
18,326
0.3% year-over-year change

Orleans County population

How many people live in Orleans County

Orleans County is home to 39,608 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Orleans County locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
39,608
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
20,119
Female
49.2%
19,489
Value Percent YoY change
Male 20,119 50.8% 0.1%
Female 19,489 49.2% -0.5%
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 Orleans County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 10.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 28.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
10.6%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
28.9%
Over 65
19.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,107 15.4% -0.0%
15 to 24 4,183 10.6% -5.5%
25 to 44 10,004 25.3% 2.3%
45 to 64 11,447 28.9% -3.3%
Over 65 7,867 19.9% 4.3%
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 Orleans County, 95.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.9% of locals are Caucasian, 4.9% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.5%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 37,948 95.8% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 987 2.5% 21.9%
Non-citizens 673 1.7% 15.4%
Racial breakdown
White
85.9%
Black or African American
4.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.4%
Other
2.6%
Value Percent
White 34,032 85.9%
Black or African American 1,944 4.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 167 0.4%
Asian 303 0.8%
Two or more races 2,119 5.4%
Other 1,043 2.6%

Households in Orleans County

A peek inside Orleans County households

Orleans County has 16,220 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.4% are families, while the remaining 36.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
16,220
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,936
Family households
10,284
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,936 36.6% 0.3%
Family households 10,284 63.4% -0.1%
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 Orleans County

The housing landscape of Orleans County

Orleans County's housing consists of 18,326 units, with 72.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.3% 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 8.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
18,326
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,339 72.8%
1 unit, attached 419 2.3%
2 units 965 5.3%
3 or 4 units 913 5%
5 to 9 units 681 3.7%
10 to 19 units 102 0.6%
20 to 49 units 241 1.3%
50 or more units 67 0.4%
Mobile home 1,599 8.7%
Homes built since 2020
30
172.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Orleans County

In Orleans County, the median construction year is 1955. About 43.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.5% 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 7,927 43.3% 3.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 593 3.2% -25.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,408 7.7% -6.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,191 6.5% 7.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,110 11.5% 2.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,910 10.4% -3.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,635 8.9% -2.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,068 5.8% 6.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 454 2.5% 1.8%
Built in 2020 or later 30 0.2% 172.7%
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.

Orleans County occupancy rates

Out of the 16,220 occupied housing units in Orleans County, 77.2% are owner-occupied, while 22.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
16,220
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,705
Owner occupied
12,515
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,705 22.8% 1.0%
Owner occupied 12,515 77.2% -0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
11.5%
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.

Orleans County housing costs

Housing costs in Orleans County come to a median of $1,009 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $874.

Median housing costs per month
$1,009/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 Orleans County
$874/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 Orleans County

Orleans County education at a glance

About 50% of the population in Orleans County went to high school, while 18% pursued college studies. Another 10.8% earned an associate degree and 9.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,357 4.2% -0.2%
High school diploma 16,074 50% -0.3%
College diploma 5,806 18% -2.7%
Associate degree 3,469 10.8% 5.8%
Bachelor's degree 3,190 9.9% -5.6%
Graduate degree 2,279 7.1% 14.6%
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 Orleans County

How much people earn in Orleans County

The average annual household income in Orleans County was $84,064 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 $65,969, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Orleans County
$84,064/year
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Orleans County
$65,969/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Orleans County income by age

In Orleans County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,777. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,382 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,382, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,203 in earnings. Overall, 87.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,382 -25.8%
25 - 44 $68,777 0.9%
45 - 64 $87,382 4.0%
Over 65 $50,203 5.0%
Above poverty level
32,671
Below poverty level
4,791
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 32,671 87.2% -0.4%
Below poverty level 4,791 12.8% -2.5%

Employment in Orleans County

Workforce and job types in Orleans County

The job market in Orleans County is powered by 17,834 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 61.3% are employed by private companies, and 19.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,834
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
12,133
Blue collar
5,701
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,133 68% 2.4%
Blue collar 5,701 32% -5.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
61.3%
Governmental workers
19.4%
Not for profit companies
10.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,575 8.8% -4.7%
Private companies 10,928 61.3% -0.5%
Governmental workers 3,451 19.4% 1.3%
Not for profit companies 1,880 10.5% 2.1%
Unemployment rate
5.1%
-12.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Orleans County stands at 5.1%, 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 Orleans County

How people get around in Orleans County

Commuting methods vary: 83.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% 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 14,641 83.6% 0.1%
Taxicab 30 0.2% 172.7%
Bus or trolleybus 33 0.2% N/A
Subway or elevated 62 0.4% N/A
Railroad 14 0.1% 55.6%
Motorcycle 72 0.4% -15.3%
Bicycle 66 0.4% -32.0%
Walk 508 2.9% -20.1%
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 Orleans County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
14058 2,370 764 $102,750 $100,375
14411 12,429 4,923 $55,641 $68,442
14571 1,190 462 $80,833 $92,036
14098 2,707 1,035 $91,042 $93,766
14103 10,810 4,549 $69,926 $81,836
14105 5,313 2,026 $92,405 $99,131
14470 7,758 3,408 $65,938 $99,293
14476 2,443 964 $90,536 $98,905
14477 1,706 647 $96,607 $110,592
14479 234 93 $34,572 $32,248

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FAQs about Orleans County demographics 

What is the total population of Orleans County?

Orleans County has a total population of 39,608 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Orleans County?

The gender ratio in Orleans County is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (20,119 residents)
  • 49.2% females (19,489 residents)

What is the median age in Orleans County?

The median age in Orleans County is 43.5.

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

The age distribution in Orleans County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (6,107 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.6% (4,183 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (10,004 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.9% (11,447 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.9% (7,867 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Orleans County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Orleans County is as follows:
  • White: 85.9% (34,032 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.9% (1,944 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (167 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (303 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.4% (2,119 residents)
  • Other: 2.6% (1,043 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.8% of the population in Orleans County.

How many housing units are there in Orleans County?

There are 18,326 housing units in Orleans County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Orleans County has a total of 16,220 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Orleans County?

Orleans County has a median household income of $65,969, 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 Orleans County?

The employment rate is 94.9% in Orleans County, with a workforce of 17,834 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68% (12,133 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32% (5,701 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (1,575 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.3% (10,928 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.4% (3,451 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.5% (1,880 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