Rensselaer, NY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
9,287
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,080/yr
6.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,890
-1.1% year-over-year change

Rensselaer population

How many people live in Rensselaer

Rensselaer is home to 9,287 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47% of Rensselaer locals are male, and 53% are female.

Total population
9,287
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47%
4,365
Female
53%
4,922
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,365 47% -3.2%
Female 4,922 53% 3.9%
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 is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.7% are children under 15, then 8.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 34% of the population, while another 24.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.7%
15 to 24
8.8%
25 to 44
34%
45 to 64
24.2%
Over 65
14.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,735 18.7% 8.6%
15 to 24 813 8.8% 19.2%
25 to 44 3,162 34% 3.1%
45 to 64 2,249 24.2% -4.0%
Over 65 1,328 14.3% -14.7%
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, 87.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.2% of locals are Caucasian, 8% are African American and 10.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.8%
Non-citizens
2.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,128 87.5% -1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 910 9.8% 33.2%
Non-citizens 249 2.7% -27.0%
Racial breakdown
White
69.2%
Black or African American
8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
10.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.2%
Other
3.1%
Value Percent
White 6,428 69.2%
Black or African American 747 8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5 0%
Asian 956 10.3%
Two or more races 859 9.2%
Other 292 3.1%

Households in Rensselaer

A peek inside Rensselaer households

Rensselaer has 4,281 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.5% are families, while the remaining 53.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,281
-3.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,290
Family households
1,991
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,290 53.5% -5.6%
Family households 1,991 46.5% -0.5%
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 Rensselaer

The housing landscape of Rensselaer

Rensselaer's housing consists of 4,890 units, with 32.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,890
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,607 32.9%
1 unit, attached 344 7%
2 units 998 20.4%
3 or 4 units 785 16%
5 to 9 units 338 6.9%
10 to 19 units 166 3.4%
20 to 49 units 152 3.1%
50 or more units 478 9.8%
Mobile home 22 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
115
32.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rensselaer

In Rensselaer, the median construction year is 1960. About 41.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,020 41.3% 10.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 109 2.2% -4.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 327 6.7% -1.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 396 8.1% -15.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 392 8% -11.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 316 6.5% -11.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 406 8.3% -15.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 421 8.6% -22.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 388 7.9% 36.1%
Built in 2020 or later 115 2.4% 32.2%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 4,281 occupied housing units in Rensselaer, 43.3% are owner-occupied, while 56.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,281
-3.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,428
Owner occupied
1,853
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,428 56.7% -0.5%
Owner occupied 1,853 43.3% -6.7%
Unoccupied housing units
12.5%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Rensselaer come to a median of $1,252 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,219.

Median housing costs per month
$1,252/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
$1,219/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

Rensselaer education at a glance

About 35.1% of the population in Rensselaer went to high school, while 20.9% pursued college studies. Another 11.3% earned an associate degree and 17.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 456 6.2% 32.6%
High school diploma 2,564 35.1% -7.3%
College diploma 1,524 20.9% 3.2%
Associate degree 825 11.3% -8.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,300 17.8% -2.3%
Graduate degree 637 8.7% 4.1%
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

How much people earn in Rensselaer

The average annual household income in Rensselaer was $81,946 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $70,080, reflecting a +6.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rensselaer
$81,946/year
6.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rensselaer
$70,080/year
6.1% year-over-year change

Rensselaer income by age

In Rensselaer, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,372. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,172 overall. Overall, 81.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $75,372 1.0%
45 - 64 $76,172 -1.1%
Over 65 $57,448 4.2%
Above poverty level
7,447
Below poverty level
1,647
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,447 81.9% 2.1%
Below poverty level 1,647 18.1% -4.2%

Average renter income in Rensselaer

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Rensselaer, their median household income was $50,585 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 28.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$50,585
Rent-to-income ratio
28.9%
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 Rensselaer

Workforce and job types in Rensselaer

The job market in Rensselaer is powered by 4,802 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.4% run their own businesses, 63.7% are employed by private companies, and 23.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,802
-1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
3,657
Blue collar
1,145
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,657 76.2% 1.9%
Blue collar 1,145 23.8% -10.7%
Employer type
Self employees
5.4%
Private companies
63.7%
Governmental workers
23.2%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 257 5.4% -37.6%
Private companies 3,057 63.7% 5.0%
Governmental workers 1,115 23.2% -2.4%
Not for profit companies 373 7.8% -7.9%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
-6.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rensselaer stands at 4.6%, 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

How people get around in Rensselaer

Commuting methods vary: 77.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% 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 3,650 77.2% -2.8%
Taxicab 19 0.4% -24.0%
Bus or trolleybus 247 5.2% -1.6%
Subway or elevated 2 0% N/A
Railroad 8 0.2% -33.3%
Walk 79 1.7% -40.6%
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 Rensselaer by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
12144 22,111 9,627 $90,738 $103,095

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FAQs about Rensselaer demographics 

What is the total population of Rensselaer?

Rensselaer has a total population of 9,287 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Rensselaer?

The gender ratio in Rensselaer is as follows:
  • 47% males (4,365 residents)
  • 53% females (4,922 residents)

What is the median age in Rensselaer?

The median age in Rensselaer is 36.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Rensselaer?

The age distribution in Rensselaer is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.7% (1,735 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.8% (813 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 34% (3,162 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.2% (2,249 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.3% (1,328 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rensselaer?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rensselaer is as follows:
  • White: 69.2% (6,428 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8% (747 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (5 residents)
  • Asian: 10.3% (956 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.2% (859 residents)
  • Other: 3.1% (292 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 87.5% of the population in Rensselaer.

How many housing units are there in Rensselaer?

There are 4,890 housing units in Rensselaer, reflecting a -1.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Rensselaer has a total of 4,281 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rensselaer?

Rensselaer has a median household income of $70,080, representing a +6.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.4% in Rensselaer, with a workforce of 4,802 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.2% (3,657 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.8% (1,145 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.4% (257 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.7% (3,057 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.2% (1,115 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (373 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