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

Total population
160,369
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$79,623/yr
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
71,244
0.3% year-over-year change

Schenectady County population

How many people live in Schenectady County

Schenectady County is home to 160,369 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Schenectady County locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
160,369
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
78,802
Female
50.9%
81,567
Value Percent YoY change
Male 78,802 49.1% 0.6%
Female 81,567 50.9% 0.4%
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 Schenectady County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.7% are children under 15, then 13.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.2% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.7%
15 to 24
13.2%
25 to 44
26.2%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
17.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 28,428 17.7% -0.1%
15 to 24 21,240 13.2% 0.1%
25 to 44 41,995 26.2% 1.9%
45 to 64 40,076 25% -1.4%
Over 65 28,630 17.8% 1.9%
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 Schenectady County, 88.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.1% of locals are Caucasian, 10.3% are African American and 5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.2%
Non-citizens
3.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 141,308 88.1% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 13,065 8.2% -2.4%
Non-citizens 5,996 3.7% 2.9%
Racial breakdown
White
69.1%
Black or African American
10.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.9%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 110,883 69.1%
Black or African American 16,461 10.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 625 0.4%
Asian 7,947 5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 39 0%
Two or more races 17,431 10.9%
Other 6,983 4.4%

Households in Schenectady County

A peek inside Schenectady County households

Schenectady County has 66,902 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.9% are families, while the remaining 42.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
66,902
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
28,184
Family households
38,718
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 28,184 42.1% 3.1%
Family households 38,718 57.9% -0.7%
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 Schenectady County

The housing landscape of Schenectady County

Schenectady County's housing consists of 71,244 units, with 59.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 0.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
71,244
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 42,365 59.5%
1 unit, attached 1,546 2.2%
2 units 10,087 14.2%
3 or 4 units 4,861 6.8%
5 to 9 units 3,694 5.2%
10 to 19 units 2,443 3.4%
20 to 49 units 2,264 3.2%
50 or more units 3,325 4.7%
Mobile home 650 0.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 0%
Homes built since 2020
612
55.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Schenectady County

In Schenectady County, the median construction year is 1956. About 31.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 22,579 31.7% -1.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 6,647 9.3% 2.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 11,625 16.3% -0.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 7,456 10.5% -2.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,302 7.4% 4.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,560 6.4% 6.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,756 5.3% -2.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,053 5.7% -2.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 4,654 6.5% 4.8%
Built in 2020 or later 612 0.9% 55.7%
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.

Schenectady County occupancy rates

Out of the 66,902 occupied housing units in Schenectady County, 64% are owner-occupied, while 36% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
66,902
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
24,058
Owner occupied
42,844
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 24,058 36% 0.2%
Owner occupied 42,844 64% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
6.1%
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.

Schenectady County housing costs

Housing costs in Schenectady County come to a median of $1,329 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,194.

Median housing costs per month
$1,329/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 Schenectady County
$1,194/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 Schenectady County

Schenectady County education at a glance

About 31.7% of the population in Schenectady County went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 12% earned an associate degree and 18.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,367 2.7% -3.0%
High school diploma 39,981 31.7% -2.6%
College diploma 25,440 20.2% -0.3%
Associate degree 15,065 12% 3.0%
Bachelor's degree 23,230 18.4% 1.4%
Graduate degree 18,873 15% 7.3%
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 Schenectady County

How much people earn in Schenectady County

The average annual household income in Schenectady County was $102,936 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $79,623, reflecting a +3.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Schenectady County
$102,936/year
3.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Schenectady County
$79,623/year
3.4% year-over-year change

Schenectady County income by age

In Schenectady County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $91,124. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,278 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,392, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,330 in earnings. Overall, 86.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,392 3.9%
25 - 44 $91,124 5.6%
45 - 64 $95,278 6.0%
Over 65 $60,330 -4.4%
Above poverty level
133,947
Below poverty level
20,395
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 133,947 86.8% -0.5%
Below poverty level 20,395 13.2% 6.7%

Employment in Schenectady County

Workforce and job types in Schenectady County

The job market in Schenectady County is powered by 76,950 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.3% run their own businesses, 57.8% are employed by private companies, and 20.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
76,950
0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
63,616
Blue collar
13,334
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 63,616 82.7% 1.0%
Blue collar 13,334 17.3% 0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
6.3%
Private companies
57.8%
Governmental workers
20.9%
Not for profit companies
15%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,873 6.3% 6.5%
Private companies 44,491 57.8% -1.0%
Governmental workers 16,072 20.9% 3.2%
Not for profit companies 11,514 15% 3.1%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
0.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Schenectady County stands at 5.8%, 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 Schenectady County

How people get around in Schenectady County

In Schenectady County, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 79.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
23 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 59,771 79.2% -0.8%
Taxicab 227 0.3% 41.9%
Bus or trolleybus 2,076 2.8% -18.8%
Subway or elevated 40 0% N/A
Railroad 6 0% N/A
Ferryboat 13 0% 18.2%
Motorcycle 39 0% -26.4%
Bicycle 93 0.1% -27.3%
Walk 2,002 2.6% -4.5%
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 Schenectady County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
12137 2,077 774 $83,879 $104,411
12150 710 247 $79,776 $117,878
12008 422 173 $125,859 $119,884
12027 4,693 1,734 $120,000 $136,346
12066 1,863 802 $78,571 $98,372
12302 28,031 11,759 $98,163 $115,104
12303 29,360 11,910 $84,375 $103,461
12304 22,403 9,306 $69,235 $90,242
12053 4,550 1,903 $91,991 $126,422
12056 1,695 727 $132,150 $156,655

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FAQs about Schenectady County demographics 

What is the total population of Schenectady County?

Schenectady County has a total population of 160,369 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Schenectady County?

The gender ratio in Schenectady County is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (78,802 residents)
  • 50.9% females (81,567 residents)

What is the median age in Schenectady County?

The median age in Schenectady County is 39.6.

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

The age distribution in Schenectady County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.7% (28,428 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.2% (21,240 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.2% (41,995 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (40,076 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.8% (28,630 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Schenectady County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Schenectady County is as follows:
  • White: 69.1% (110,883 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.3% (16,461 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (625 residents)
  • Asian: 5% (7,947 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (39 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.9% (17,431 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (6,983 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.1% of the population in Schenectady County.

How many housing units are there in Schenectady County?

There are 71,244 housing units in Schenectady County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Schenectady County has a total of 66,902 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Schenectady County?

Schenectady County has a median household income of $79,623, representing a +3.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.2% in Schenectady County, with a workforce of 76,950 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.7% (63,616 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.3% (13,334 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.3% (4,873 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.8% (44,491 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.9% (16,072 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 15% (11,514 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