Port Jefferson, NY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,091
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$144,912/yr
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,567
4.5% year-over-year change

Port Jefferson population

How many people live in Port Jefferson

Port Jefferson is home to 8,091 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.8% of Port Jefferson locals are male, and 52.2% are female.

Total population
8,091
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.8%
3,870
Female
52.2%
4,221
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,870 47.8% 0.8%
Female 4,221 52.2% 0.8%
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 Port Jefferson is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.5% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.2% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
45
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.5%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
23.2%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
23.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,174 14.5% -0.6%
15 to 24 991 12.2% 1.2%
25 to 44 1,879 23.2% 3.6%
45 to 64 2,148 26.6% -4.2%
Over 65 1,899 23.5% 4.8%
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 Port Jefferson, 82.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 81.4% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 6.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.9%
Non-citizens
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,653 82.2% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 721 8.9% -5.0%
Non-citizens 717 8.9% 19.3%
Racial breakdown
White
81.4%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
6.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.6%
Other
4%
Value Percent
White 6,586 81.4%
Black or African American 31 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 19 0.2%
Asian 516 6.4%
Two or more races 611 7.6%
Other 328 4%

Households in Port Jefferson

A peek inside Port Jefferson households

Port Jefferson has 3,262 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.8% are families, while the remaining 41.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,262
2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,343
Family households
1,919
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,343 41.2% 2.2%
Family households 1,919 58.8% 2.1%
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 Port Jefferson

The housing landscape of Port Jefferson

Port Jefferson's housing consists of 3,567 units, with 65.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
3,567
4.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,329 65.3%
1 unit, attached 422 11.8%
2 units 132 3.7%
3 or 4 units 183 5.1%
5 to 9 units 235 6.6%
10 to 19 units 89 2.5%
20 to 49 units 99 2.8%
50 or more units 78 2.2%
Homes built since 2020
20
66.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Port Jefferson

In Port Jefferson, the median construction year is 1972. About 17.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 622 17.4% 5.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 129 3.6% 1.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 347 9.7% 9.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 587 16.5% -4.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 401 11.2% 10.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 588 16.5% 8.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 419 11.8% 6.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 295 8.3% 10.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 159 4.5% -15.0%
Built in 2020 or later 20 0.6% 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.

Port Jefferson occupancy rates

Out of the 3,262 occupied housing units in Port Jefferson, 72% are owner-occupied, while 28% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,262
2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
913
Owner occupied
2,349
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 913 28% -0.5%
Owner occupied 2,349 72% 3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
8.6%
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.

Port Jefferson housing costs

Housing costs in Port Jefferson come to a median of $2,476 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,349.

Median housing costs per month
$2,476/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 Port Jefferson
$2,349/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 Port Jefferson

Port Jefferson education at a glance

About 16.7% of the population in Port Jefferson went to high school, while 13.4% pursued college studies. Another 5.9% earned an associate degree and 25.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 37% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 86 1.3% -11.3%
High school diploma 1,112 16.7% 5.8%
College diploma 894 13.4% 5.9%
Associate degree 393 5.9% 3.4%
Bachelor's degree 1,704 25.6% -1.7%
Graduate degree 2,456 37% -0.9%
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 Port Jefferson

How much people earn in Port Jefferson

The average annual household income in Port Jefferson was $186,476 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $144,912, reflecting a +1.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Port Jefferson
$186,476/year
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Port Jefferson
$144,912/year
1.2% year-over-year change

Port Jefferson income by age

In Port Jefferson, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $143,924. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $211,806 overall. Overall, 94.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $143,924 2.7%
45 - 64 $211,806 16.9%
Over 65 $116,116 -13.2%
Above poverty level
7,427
Below poverty level
447
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,427 94.3% 0.2%
Below poverty level 447 5.7% 4.7%

Average renter income in Port Jefferson

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Port Jefferson, their median household income was $83,344 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$83,344
Rent-to-income ratio
33.8%
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 Port Jefferson

Workforce and job types in Port Jefferson

The job market in Port Jefferson is powered by 4,355 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 90.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 9.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12% run their own businesses, 54.6% are employed by private companies, and 23% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,355
0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
3,959
Blue collar
396
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,959 90.9% 0.4%
Blue collar 396 9.1% -0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
12%
Private companies
54.6%
Governmental workers
23%
Not for profit companies
10.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 524 12% -4.0%
Private companies 2,376 54.6% -2.9%
Governmental workers 1,003 23% 7.0%
Not for profit companies 452 10.4% 10.0%
Unemployment rate
3.3%
14.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Port Jefferson stands at 3.3%, 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 Port Jefferson

How people get around in Port Jefferson

Commuting methods vary: 77.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% 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 3,367 77.3% -2.8%
Taxicab 6 0.1% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 17 0.4% -29.2%
Subway or elevated 11 0.2% N/A
Railroad 168 3.8% 10.5%
Bicycle 12 0.3% 33.3%
Walk 37 0.8% 85.0%
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 Port Jefferson by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
11777 9,396 3,701 $150,505 $195,249

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FAQs about Port Jefferson demographics 

What is the total population of Port Jefferson?

Port Jefferson has a total population of 8,091 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Port Jefferson?

The gender ratio in Port Jefferson is as follows:
  • 47.8% males (3,870 residents)
  • 52.2% females (4,221 residents)

What is the median age in Port Jefferson?

The median age in Port Jefferson is 45.

What is the age distribution of the population in Port Jefferson?

The age distribution in Port Jefferson is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.5% (1,174 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (991 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.2% (1,879 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (2,148 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.5% (1,899 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Port Jefferson?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Port Jefferson is as follows:
  • White: 81.4% (6,586 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (31 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (19 residents)
  • Asian: 6.4% (516 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.6% (611 residents)
  • Other: 4% (328 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.2% of the population in Port Jefferson.

How many housing units are there in Port Jefferson?

There are 3,567 housing units in Port Jefferson, reflecting a +4.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Port Jefferson has a total of 3,262 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Port Jefferson?

Port Jefferson has a median household income of $144,912, representing a +1.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Port Jefferson?

The employment rate is 96.7% in Port Jefferson, with a workforce of 4,355 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 90.9% (3,959 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 9.1% (396 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12% (524 residents)
  • Private companies: 54.6% (2,376 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23% (1,003 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.4% (452 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