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

Total population
160,332
-0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$87,915/yr
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
74,543
0.2% year-over-year change

Rensselaer County population

How many people live in Rensselaer County

Rensselaer County is home to 160,332 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Rensselaer County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
160,332
-0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
79,960
Female
50.1%
80,372
Value Percent YoY change
Male 79,960 49.9% 0.1%
Female 80,372 50.1% -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 Rensselaer County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.6% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.8% of the population, while another 25.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.6%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
26.8%
45 to 64
25.9%
Over 65
18.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 25,087 15.6% -0.7%
15 to 24 21,489 13.4% -0.7%
25 to 44 42,896 26.8% 0.5%
45 to 64 41,530 25.9% -1.3%
Over 65 29,330 18.3% 2.4%
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 Rensselaer County, 93.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80% of locals are Caucasian, 7% are African American and 3.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.5%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 149,418 93.2% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 7,154 4.5% 0.3%
Non-citizens 3,760 2.4% -18.0%
Racial breakdown
White
80%
Black or African American
7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
3.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7%
Other
2.6%
Value Percent
White 128,235 80%
Black or African American 11,173 7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 250 0.2%
Asian 5,164 3.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 19 0%
Two or more races 11,310 7%
Other 4,181 2.6%

Households in Rensselaer County

A peek inside Rensselaer County households

Rensselaer County has 66,686 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.2% are families, while the remaining 41.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
66,686
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
27,856
Family households
38,830
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 27,856 41.8% 3.1%
Family households 38,830 58.2% -1.0%
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 Rensselaer County

The housing landscape of Rensselaer County

Rensselaer County's housing consists of 74,543 units, with 56% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4% 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 2.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
74,543
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 41,772 56%
1 unit, attached 2,986 4%
2 units 9,853 13.2%
3 or 4 units 6,776 9.1%
5 to 9 units 3,927 5.3%
10 to 19 units 2,086 2.8%
20 to 49 units 1,902 2.6%
50 or more units 3,370 4.5%
Mobile home 1,854 2.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 17 0%
Homes built since 2020
602
79.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rensselaer County

In Rensselaer County, the median construction year is 1962. About 33.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 24,768 33.2% 1.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,753 5% -0.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 7,397 9.9% -1.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,790 9.1% 1.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 7,055 9.5% -1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,571 8.8% -1.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,912 9.3% -1.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,804 7.8% -3.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 4,891 6.6% -0.9%
Built in 2020 or later 602 0.8% 79.7%
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.

Rensselaer County occupancy rates

Out of the 66,686 occupied housing units in Rensselaer County, 64.8% are owner-occupied, while 35.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
66,686
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
23,496
Owner occupied
43,190
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 23,496 35.2% -1.2%
Owner occupied 43,190 64.8% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
10.5%
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.

Rensselaer County housing costs

Housing costs in Rensselaer County come to a median of $1,330 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,217.

Median housing costs per month
$1,330/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 Rensselaer County
$1,217/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 Rensselaer County

Rensselaer County education at a glance

About 31.4% of the population in Rensselaer County went to high school, while 18.3% pursued college studies. Another 12.8% earned an associate degree and 21.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,469 2.7% 5.9%
High school diploma 40,729 31.4% -1.7%
College diploma 23,788 18.3% 0.1%
Associate degree 16,585 12.8% 2.0%
Bachelor's degree 27,336 21.1% 2.9%
Graduate degree 17,863 13.8% -1.9%
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 Rensselaer County

How much people earn in Rensselaer County

The average annual household income in Rensselaer County was $107,086 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $87,915, reflecting a +1.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rensselaer County
$107,086/year
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rensselaer County
$87,915/year
1.4% year-over-year change

Rensselaer County income by age

In Rensselaer County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $93,689. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $106,821 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,085, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $62,990 in earnings. Overall, 88.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,085 2.7%
25 - 44 $93,689 0.2%
45 - 64 $106,821 -0.3%
Over 65 $62,990 1.7%
Above poverty level
134,409
Below poverty level
18,057
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 134,409 88.2% -0.3%
Below poverty level 18,057 11.8% -0.1%

Employment in Rensselaer County

Workforce and job types in Rensselaer County

The job market in Rensselaer County is powered by 80,083 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.1% run their own businesses, 56.7% are employed by private companies, and 22.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
80,083
-0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
65,687
Blue collar
14,396
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 65,687 82% -0.3%
Blue collar 14,396 18% -1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.1%
Private companies
56.7%
Governmental workers
22.7%
Not for profit companies
12.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,468 8.1% -5.8%
Private companies 45,437 56.7% 1.4%
Governmental workers 18,155 22.7% -2.1%
Not for profit companies 10,023 12.5% -2.8%
Unemployment rate
5.3%
-6.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rensselaer County stands at 5.3%, 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 Rensselaer County

How people get around in Rensselaer County

In Rensselaer County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 78.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 61,354 78.9% -2.1%
Taxicab 263 0.3% 69.7%
Bus or trolleybus 1,701 2.2% -2.1%
Subway or elevated 85 0.1% N/A
Railroad 63 0.1% -3.1%
Motorcycle 38 0% 2.7%
Bicycle 107 0.1% -31.9%
Walk 2,429 3.1% -15.7%
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 Rensselaer County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
12018 7,422 2,865 $126,620 $155,918
12022 1,120 396 $96,875 $110,844
12028 1,557 477 $96,891 $106,532
12033 7,932 3,537 $98,569 $115,905
12040 27 20 $57,955 $52,845
12052 1,915 671 $118,424 $107,604
12057 1,789 689 $68,306 $87,248
12061 9,854 4,002 $110,962 $147,237
12062 1,650 710 $87,679 $108,130
12063 665 277 $90,855 $116,292

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FAQs about Rensselaer County demographics 

What is the total population of Rensselaer County?

Rensselaer County has a total population of 160,332 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 Rensselaer County?

The gender ratio in Rensselaer County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (79,960 residents)
  • 50.1% females (80,372 residents)

What is the median age in Rensselaer County?

The median age in Rensselaer County is 40.1.

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

The age distribution in Rensselaer County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.6% (25,087 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (21,489 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.8% (42,896 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.9% (41,530 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.3% (29,330 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rensselaer County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rensselaer County is as follows:
  • White: 80% (128,235 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7% (11,173 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (250 residents)
  • Asian: 3.2% (5,164 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (19 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7% (11,310 residents)
  • Other: 2.6% (4,181 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.2% of the population in Rensselaer County.

How many housing units are there in Rensselaer County?

There are 74,543 housing units in Rensselaer 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 Rensselaer County and what is the average household size?

Rensselaer County has a total of 66,686 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rensselaer County?

Rensselaer County has a median household income of $87,915, representing a +1.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.7% in Rensselaer County, with a workforce of 80,083 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82% (65,687 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18% (14,396 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.1% (6,468 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.7% (45,437 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.7% (18,155 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.5% (10,023 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