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

Total population
98,107
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$126,257/yr
-0.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
38,450
0.2% year-over-year change

Putnam County population

How many people live in Putnam County

Putnam County is home to 98,107 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Putnam County locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
98,107
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
49,464
Female
49.6%
48,643
Value Percent YoY change
Male 49,464 50.4% -0.1%
Female 48,643 49.6% 0.3%
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 Putnam County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.5% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.1% of the population, while another 29.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
44
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.5%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
24.1%
45 to 64
29.5%
Over 65
19.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 15,177 15.5% -0.3%
15 to 24 11,495 11.7% -1.1%
25 to 44 23,623 24.1% 2.1%
45 to 64 28,902 29.5% -2.7%
Over 65 18,910 19.3% 3.2%
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 Putnam County, 84.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.8% of locals are Caucasian, 3% are African American and 2.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.3%
Non-citizens
5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 83,078 84.7% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 10,095 10.3% -4.4%
Non-citizens 4,934 5% 7.4%
Racial breakdown
White
74.8%
Black or African American
3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.3%
Other
10.4%
Value Percent
White 73,359 74.8%
Black or African American 2,960 3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 181 0.2%
Asian 2,263 2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 25 0%
Two or more races 9,081 9.3%
Other 10,238 10.4%

Households in Putnam County

A peek inside Putnam County households

Putnam County has 35,545 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 73.7% are families, while the remaining 26.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
35,545
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
9,358
Family households
26,187
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,358 26.3% 5.4%
Family households 26,187 73.7% 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 Putnam County

The housing landscape of Putnam County

Putnam County's housing consists of 38,450 units, with 77.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.9% 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
38,450
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 29,695 77.2%
1 unit, attached 3,049 7.9%
2 units 1,908 5%
3 or 4 units 1,028 2.7%
5 to 9 units 1,065 2.8%
10 to 19 units 491 1.3%
20 to 49 units 591 1.5%
50 or more units 339 0.9%
Mobile home 259 0.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 25 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
115
23.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Putnam County

In Putnam County, the median construction year is 1968. About 17.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,697 17.4% -2.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,742 7.1% -8.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,959 12.9% -7.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,925 15.4% 16.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,370 14% -6.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,001 13% 1.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,230 8.4% 3.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,342 8.7% 3.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,069 2.8% 11.3%
Built in 2020 or later 115 0.3% 23.7%
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.

Putnam County occupancy rates

Out of the 35,545 occupied housing units in Putnam County, 83.8% are owner-occupied, while 16.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
35,545
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,767
Owner occupied
29,778
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,767 16.2% -3.1%
Owner occupied 29,778 83.8% 2.3%
Unoccupied housing units
7.6%
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.

Putnam County housing costs

Housing costs in Putnam County come to a median of $2,284 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,775.

Median housing costs per month
$2,284/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 Putnam County
$1,775/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 Putnam County

Putnam County education at a glance

About 28.2% of the population in Putnam County went to high school, while 16.6% pursued college studies. Another 8.1% earned an associate degree and 25.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,746 3.5% 14.7%
High school diploma 22,292 28.2% -2.3%
College diploma 13,101 16.6% -6.7%
Associate degree 6,383 8.1% -1.6%
Bachelor's degree 19,935 25.2% 3.4%
Graduate degree 14,617 18.5% 5.9%
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 Putnam County

How much people earn in Putnam County

The average annual household income in Putnam County was $153,855 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $126,257, reflecting a -0.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Putnam County
$153,855/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Putnam County
$126,257/year
-0.9% year-over-year change

Putnam County income by age

In Putnam County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $142,200. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $151,404 overall. Overall, 92.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $142,200 -0.5%
45 - 64 $151,404 2.7%
Over 65 $82,122 2.7%
Above poverty level
89,235
Below poverty level
6,900
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 89,235 92.8% -0.4%
Below poverty level 6,900 7.2% 9.0%

Employment in Putnam County

Workforce and job types in Putnam County

The job market in Putnam County is powered by 49,884 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.7% run their own businesses, 57.4% are employed by private companies, and 20.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
49,884
-0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
41,751
Blue collar
8,133
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 41,751 83.7% -0.3%
Blue collar 8,133 16.3% -2.9%
Employer type
Self employees
12.7%
Private companies
57.4%
Governmental workers
20.9%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,324 12.7% 6.4%
Private companies 28,656 57.4% -1.8%
Governmental workers 10,413 20.9% 3.7%
Not for profit companies 4,491 9% -11.8%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
7.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Putnam County stands at 4.4%, 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 Putnam County

How people get around in Putnam County

In Putnam County, the average commute time is 39 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
39 min
-0.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 37,653 76.6% -2.3%
Taxicab 90 0.2% 114.3%
Bus or trolleybus 110 0.2% 8.9%
Subway or elevated 549 1.1% N/A
Railroad 2,208 4.5% -4.9%
Bicycle 53 0.1% 152.4%
Walk 883 1.8% 13.3%
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 Putnam County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
12531 2,337 881 $129,028 $193,016
12563 7,304 2,165 $98,415 $120,118
10509 20,046 7,595 $116,831 $153,142
10512 24,234 9,232 $117,701 $140,312
10516 5,362 2,213 $140,225 $186,552
10524 4,578 1,679 $146,250 $176,611
10537 2,439 887 $132,117 $155,280
10541 26,361 9,011 $138,617 $157,318
10579 9,019 3,102 $132,500 $168,394
10588 2,783 1,045 $178,977 $178,772

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FAQs about Putnam County demographics 

What is the total population of Putnam County?

Putnam County has a total population of 98,107 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Putnam County?

The gender ratio in Putnam County is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (49,464 residents)
  • 49.6% females (48,643 residents)

What is the median age in Putnam County?

The median age in Putnam County is 44.

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

The age distribution in Putnam County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.5% (15,177 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (11,495 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.1% (23,623 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.5% (28,902 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.3% (18,910 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Putnam County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Putnam County is as follows:
  • White: 74.8% (73,359 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3% (2,960 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (181 residents)
  • Asian: 2.3% (2,263 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (25 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.3% (9,081 residents)
  • Other: 10.4% (10,238 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.7% of the population in Putnam County.

How many housing units are there in Putnam County?

There are 38,450 housing units in Putnam County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Putnam County has a total of 35,545 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Putnam County?

Putnam County has a median household income of $126,257, representing a -0.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Putnam County, with a workforce of 49,884 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.7% (41,751 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.3% (8,133 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.7% (6,324 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.4% (28,656 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.9% (10,413 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (4,491 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