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

Total population
117,953
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,183/yr
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
54,844
0.3% year-over-year change

Oswego County population

How many people live in Oswego County

Oswego County is home to 117,953 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Oswego County locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
117,953
0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
59,330
Female
49.7%
58,623
Value Percent YoY change
Male 59,330 50.3% 0.1%
Female 58,623 49.7% -0.1%
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 Oswego County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 14.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.4% of the population, while another 27% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
14.8%
25 to 44
23.4%
45 to 64
27%
Over 65
18%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 19,857 16.8% -0.5%
15 to 24 17,489 14.8% -1.1%
25 to 44 27,542 23.4% 0.6%
45 to 64 31,882 27% -1.5%
Over 65 21,183 18% 3.0%
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 Oswego County, 97.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 114,822 97.4% -0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,399 2% 3.0%
Non-citizens 732 0.6% -4.8%
Racial breakdown
White
92%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.8%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 108,555 92%
Black or African American 1,190 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 156 0.1%
Asian 923 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 39 0%
Two or more races 5,718 4.8%
Other 1,372 1.2%

Households in Oswego County

A peek inside Oswego County households

Oswego County has 47,239 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.7% are families, while the remaining 37.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
47,239
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
17,611
Family households
29,628
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 17,611 37.3% 1.0%
Family households 29,628 62.7% -0.2%
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 Oswego County

The housing landscape of Oswego County

Oswego County's housing consists of 54,844 units, with 68.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% 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 12.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
54,844
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 37,432 68.2%
1 unit, attached 1,014 1.8%
2 units 2,925 5.3%
3 or 4 units 2,567 4.7%
5 to 9 units 1,636 3%
10 to 19 units 631 1.2%
20 to 49 units 559 1%
50 or more units 998 1.8%
Mobile home 7,005 12.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 77 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
481
48.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Oswego County

In Oswego County, the median construction year is 1971. About 27.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 15,027 27.4% -1.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,330 4.2% -6.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,797 8.8% 3.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,396 8% -2.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,806 12.4% -2.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7,288 13.3% 4.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,975 12.7% -1.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,043 7.4% 1.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,701 4.9% 13.8%
Built in 2020 or later 481 0.9% 48.5%
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.

Oswego County occupancy rates

Out of the 47,239 occupied housing units in Oswego County, 73.4% are owner-occupied, while 26.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
47,239
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
12,559
Owner occupied
34,680
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 12,559 26.6% 2.1%
Owner occupied 34,680 73.4% -0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
13.9%
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.

Oswego County housing costs

Housing costs in Oswego County come to a median of $1,037 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $967.

Median housing costs per month
$1,037/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 Oswego County
$967/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 Oswego County

Oswego County education at a glance

About 44.7% of the population in Oswego County went to high school, while 21.3% pursued college studies. Another 11.5% earned an associate degree and 12.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,196 2.3% 6.5%
High school diploma 41,880 44.7% 2.5%
College diploma 19,979 21.3% -2.4%
Associate degree 10,765 11.5% -4.0%
Bachelor's degree 12,066 12.9% 0.9%
Graduate degree 6,791 7.2% -2.9%
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 Oswego County

How much people earn in Oswego County

The average annual household income in Oswego County was $89,184 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,183, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Oswego County
$89,184/year
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Oswego County
$69,183/year
1.1% year-over-year change

Oswego County income by age

In Oswego County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,705. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,568 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $49,916, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,877 in earnings. Overall, 83.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $49,916 2.8%
25 - 44 $77,705 3.2%
45 - 64 $87,568 0.9%
Over 65 $50,877 1.1%
Above poverty level
93,193
Below poverty level
18,147
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 93,193 83.7% 0.1%
Below poverty level 18,147 16.3% -0.7%

Employment in Oswego County

Workforce and job types in Oswego County

The job market in Oswego County is powered by 53,469 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.4% run their own businesses, 62.2% are employed by private companies, and 18.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
53,469
-0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
38,331
Blue collar
15,138
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 38,331 71.7% -1.4%
Blue collar 15,138 28.3% 1.4%
Employer type
Self employees
10.4%
Private companies
62.2%
Governmental workers
18.4%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,586 10.4% 1.1%
Private companies 33,259 62.2% -0.7%
Governmental workers 9,825 18.4% -2.0%
Not for profit companies 4,799 9% 0.8%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
1.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Oswego County stands at 7%, 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 Oswego County

How people get around in Oswego County

In Oswego County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.3% 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.

Commute time
25 min
-0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 45,180 86.3% -0.7%
Taxicab 147 0.3% 11.4%
Bus or trolleybus 278 0.5% -11.2%
Subway or elevated 14 0% N/A
Motorcycle 60 0.1% 30.4%
Bicycle 25 0% 25.0%
Walk 1,519 2.9% -6.6%
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 Oswego County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
13042 1,960 821 $86,587 $104,753
13044 2,643 1,043 $64,313 $84,540
13069 22,810 9,573 $63,113 $81,532
13074 4,496 1,712 $81,563 $89,908
13076 2,778 1,084 $95,889 $168,226
13083 1,835 744 $71,667 $83,053
13111 1,463 565 $59,063 $59,887
13028 1,162 387 $61,645 $78,020
13036 8,616 3,607 $83,648 $108,293
13103 224 100 $80,000 $71,591

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FAQs about Oswego County demographics 

What is the total population of Oswego County?

Oswego County has a total population of 117,953 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 +0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Oswego County?

The gender ratio in Oswego County is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (59,330 residents)
  • 49.7% females (58,623 residents)

What is the median age in Oswego County?

The median age in Oswego County is 40.9.

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

The age distribution in Oswego County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (19,857 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.8% (17,489 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.4% (27,542 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27% (31,882 residents)
  • Over 65: 18% (21,183 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Oswego County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Oswego County is as follows:
  • White: 92% (108,555 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (1,190 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (156 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (923 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (39 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.8% (5,718 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (1,372 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.4% of the population in Oswego County.

How many housing units are there in Oswego County?

There are 54,844 housing units in Oswego 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 Oswego County and what is the average household size?

Oswego County has a total of 47,239 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Oswego County?

Oswego County has a median household income of $69,183, representing a +1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93% in Oswego County, with a workforce of 53,469 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.7% (38,331 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.3% (15,138 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.4% (5,586 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.2% (33,259 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.4% (9,825 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (4,799 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