Plattsburgh, NY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
19,830
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,630/yr
6.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,960
1.6% year-over-year change

Plattsburgh population

How many people live in Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh is home to 19,830 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.3% of Plattsburgh locals are male, and 52.7% are female.

Total population
19,830
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.3%
9,374
Female
52.7%
10,456
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,374 47.3% 0.0%
Female 10,456 52.7% -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 Plattsburgh is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 10.7% are children under 15, then 29.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.3% of the population, while another 20.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
10.7%
15 to 24
29.6%
25 to 44
22.3%
45 to 64
20.3%
Over 65
17.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,123 10.7% -12.5%
15 to 24 5,865 29.6% -4.5%
25 to 44 4,416 22.3% 1.5%
45 to 64 4,023 20.3% 6.3%
Over 65 3,403 17.2% 7.2%
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 Plattsburgh, 91.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 84.2% of locals are Caucasian, 3.8% are African American and 3.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.1%
Non-citizens
3.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,141 91.5% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,015 5.1% 21.1%
Non-citizens 674 3.4% -8.4%
Racial breakdown
White
84.2%
Black or African American
3.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
3.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6.8%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 16,706 84.2%
Black or African American 752 3.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 133 0.7%
Asian 657 3.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 12 0.1%
Two or more races 1,355 6.8%
Other 215 1.1%

Households in Plattsburgh

A peek inside Plattsburgh households

Plattsburgh has 9,250 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 41.4% are families, while the remaining 58.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,250
3.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,420
Family households
3,830
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,420 58.6% 2.1%
Family households 3,830 41.4% 4.5%
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 Plattsburgh

The housing landscape of Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh's housing consists of 9,960 units, with 31.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.5% 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 1.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,960
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,162 31.8%
1 unit, attached 644 6.5%
2 units 1,022 10.3%
3 or 4 units 1,701 17.1%
5 to 9 units 1,525 15.3%
10 to 19 units 728 7.3%
20 to 49 units 538 5.4%
50 or more units 475 4.8%
Mobile home 165 1.7%
Homes built since 2020
15
66.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Plattsburgh

In Plattsburgh, the median construction year is 1962. About 26.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.8% 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, 6.6% 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 2,618 26.3% -3.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 482 4.8% -0.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,710 17.2% -5.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 891 9% 11.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,208 12.1% 4.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,137 11.4% -7.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 506 5.1% 1.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 737 7.4% 35.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 656 6.6% 13.1%
Built in 2020 or later 15 0.2% 66.7%
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.

Plattsburgh occupancy rates

Out of the 9,250 occupied housing units in Plattsburgh, 37.9% are owner-occupied, while 62.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,250
3.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,743
Owner occupied
3,507
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,743 62.1% 3.3%
Owner occupied 3,507 37.9% 2.7%
Unoccupied housing units
7.1%
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.

Plattsburgh housing costs

Housing costs in Plattsburgh come to a median of $1,043 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,030.

Median housing costs per month
$1,043/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 Plattsburgh
$1,030/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 Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh education at a glance

About 32.1% of the population in Plattsburgh went to high school, while 26.9% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 19.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 287 1.7% 0.0%
High school diploma 5,525 32.1% 5.2%
College diploma 4,638 26.9% -8.7%
Associate degree 1,432 8.3% 8.4%
Bachelor's degree 3,316 19.3% 7.7%
Graduate degree 2,018 11.7% 4.8%
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 Plattsburgh

How much people earn in Plattsburgh

The average annual household income in Plattsburgh was $76,326 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,630, reflecting a +6.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Plattsburgh
$76,326/year
5.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Plattsburgh
$57,630/year
6.8% year-over-year change

Plattsburgh income by age

In Plattsburgh, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,396. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $64,493 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,576, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,494 in earnings. Overall, 77.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,576 62.2%
25 - 44 $62,396 4.8%
45 - 64 $64,493 -5.5%
Over 65 $54,494 6.8%
Above poverty level
13,165
Below poverty level
3,851
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,165 77.4% 1.9%
Below poverty level 3,851 22.6% -6.7%

Average renter income in Plattsburgh

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Plattsburgh, their median household income was $37,788 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,788
Rent-to-income ratio
32.7%
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 Plattsburgh

Workforce and job types in Plattsburgh

The job market in Plattsburgh is powered by 10,115 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.2% run their own businesses, 60.1% are employed by private companies, and 20.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,115
4.3% year-over-year change
White collar
8,179
Blue collar
1,936
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,179 80.9% 2.3%
Blue collar 1,936 19.1% 13.8%
Employer type
Self employees
8.2%
Private companies
60.1%
Governmental workers
20.4%
Not for profit companies
11.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 828 8.2% -0.5%
Private companies 6,078 60.1% 3.1%
Governmental workers 2,060 20.4% 7.8%
Not for profit companies 1,149 11.4% 8.0%
Unemployment rate
5.9%
24.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Plattsburgh stands at 5.9%, 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 Plattsburgh

How people get around in Plattsburgh

In Plattsburgh, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 79.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 9.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
17 min
9.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,785 79.3% 3.9%
Taxicab 226 2.3% 94.8%
Subway or elevated 12 0.1% N/A
Bicycle 47 0.5% -33.8%
Walk 976 9.9% -5.9%
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 Plattsburgh by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
12901 31,447 14,321 $60,942 $83,449
12903 1,824 968 $77,733 $108,970

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FAQs about Plattsburgh demographics 

What is the total population of Plattsburgh?

Plattsburgh has a total population of 19,830 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 Plattsburgh?

The gender ratio in Plattsburgh is as follows:
  • 47.3% males (9,374 residents)
  • 52.7% females (10,456 residents)

What is the median age in Plattsburgh?

The median age in Plattsburgh is 31.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Plattsburgh?

The age distribution in Plattsburgh is as follows:
  • Under 15: 10.7% (2,123 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 29.6% (5,865 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.3% (4,416 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.3% (4,023 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.2% (3,403 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Plattsburgh?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Plattsburgh is as follows:
  • White: 84.2% (16,706 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.8% (752 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (133 residents)
  • Asian: 3.3% (657 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (12 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.8% (1,355 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (215 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.5% of the population in Plattsburgh.

How many housing units are there in Plattsburgh?

There are 9,960 housing units in Plattsburgh, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Plattsburgh has a total of 9,250 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Plattsburgh?

Plattsburgh has a median household income of $57,630, representing a +6.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Plattsburgh?

The employment rate is 94.1% in Plattsburgh, with a workforce of 10,115 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.9% (8,179 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.1% (1,936 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.2% (828 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.1% (6,078 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.4% (2,060 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.4% (1,149 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