East Meadow, South Shore, NY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
49,369
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$143,466/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,354
0.9% year-over-year change

East Meadow population

How many people live in East Meadow

East Meadow is home to 49,369 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.4% of East Meadow locals are male, and 52.6% are female.

Total population
49,369
1.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.4%
23,407
Female
52.6%
25,962
Value Percent YoY change
Male 23,407 47.4% 3.1%
Female 25,962 52.6% 0.5%
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 East Meadow is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.7% are children under 15, then 11.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.6% of the population, while another 26.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
43
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.7%
15 to 24
11.6%
25 to 44
24.6%
45 to 64
26.2%
Over 65
20.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,247 16.7% 2.7%
15 to 24 5,735 11.6% 7.6%
25 to 44 12,158 24.6% 1.8%
45 to 64 12,908 26.2% -0.7%
Over 65 10,322 20.9% 0.9%
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 East Meadow, 74.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 18.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 55% of locals are Caucasian, 7.6% are African American and 17.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
74.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
18.1%
Non-citizens
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 36,896 74.7% 3.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 8,932 18.1% -3.3%
Non-citizens 3,541 7.2% 1.7%
Racial breakdown
White
55%
Black or African American
7.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
17.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.8%
Other
9.8%
Value Percent
White 27,143 55%
Black or African American 3,778 7.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 32 0.1%
Asian 8,697 17.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 25 0%
Two or more races 4,848 9.8%
Other 4,845 9.8%

Households in East Meadow

A peek inside East Meadow households

East Meadow has 15,818 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 76.7% are families, while the remaining 23.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,818
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,690
Family households
12,127
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,690 23.3% -1.7%
Family households 12,127 76.7% 1.3%
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 East Meadow

The housing landscape of East Meadow

East Meadow's housing consists of 16,354 units, with 77.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.7% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
16,354
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,740 77.9%
1 unit, attached 763 4.7%
2 units 575 3.5%
3 or 4 units 344 2.1%
5 to 9 units 319 2%
10 to 19 units 532 3.2%
20 to 49 units 325 2%
50 or more units 751 4.6%
Mobile home 6 0%
Homes built since 2020
199
30.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in East Meadow

In East Meadow, the median construction year is 1956. About 4.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 712 4.4% 9.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,771 10.8% 5.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,316 50.8% -0.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,542 9.4% -6.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 651 4% 9.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 713 4.4% -18.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,112 6.8% 2.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 755 4.6% 14.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 582 3.6% 5.4%
Built in 2020 or later 199 1.2% 30.1%
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.

East Meadow occupancy rates

Out of the 15,818 occupied housing units in East Meadow, 86.2% are owner-occupied, while 13.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,818
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,181
Owner occupied
13,636
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,181 13.8% 2.9%
Owner occupied 13,636 86.2% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
3.3%
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.

East Meadow housing costs

Housing costs in East Meadow come to a median of $2,401 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,530.

Median housing costs per month
$2,401/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 East Meadow
$2,530/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 East Meadow

East Meadow education at a glance

About 28.7% of the population in East Meadow went to high school, while 14.5% pursued college studies. Another 9.8% earned an associate degree and 25.1% 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 1,330 3.4% -8.7%
High school diploma 11,376 28.7% -0.3%
College diploma 5,738 14.5% -9.7%
Associate degree 3,897 9.8% 0.1%
Bachelor's degree 9,929 25.1% 7.5%
Graduate degree 7,313 18.5% 8.3%
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 East Meadow

How much people earn in East Meadow

The average annual household income in East Meadow was $172,628 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $143,466, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in East Meadow
$172,628/year
6.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in East Meadow
$143,466/year
3.2% year-over-year change

East Meadow income by age

In East Meadow, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $180,256. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $180,047 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $92,387, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $89,752 in earnings. Overall, 94.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $92,387 15.5%
25 - 44 $180,256 2.7%
45 - 64 $180,047 7.2%
Over 65 $89,752 -1.7%
Above poverty level
44,881
Below poverty level
2,768
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 44,881 94.2% 2.2%
Below poverty level 2,768 5.8% -5.6%

Average renter income in East Meadow

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in East Meadow, their median household income was $68,472 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 44.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$68,472
Rent-to-income ratio
44.3%
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 East Meadow

Workforce and job types in East Meadow

85.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 64.2% are employed by private companies, and 18.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
19,680
Blue collar
3,235
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 19,680 85.9% 3.2%
Blue collar 3,235 14.1% -10.5%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
64.2%
Governmental workers
18.4%
Not for profit companies
8.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,023 8.8% 4.0%
Private companies 14,713 64.2% -1.2%
Governmental workers 4,225 18.4% 6.9%
Not for profit companies 1,954 8.5% 2.7%

Transportation in East Meadow

How people get around in East Meadow

In East Meadow, the average commute time is 43 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
43 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,640 88% -0.7%
Taxicab 113 0.6% 43.0%
Bus or trolleybus 356 1.9% -10.3%
Railroad 1,099 5.8% -15.8%
Motorcycle 6 0% 50.0%
Bicycle 35 0.2% 16.7%
Walk 650 3.4% 8.9%
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 East Meadow by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
11554 36,821 11,796 $133,971 $167,941
11590 47,599 15,255 $152,960 $189,375

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FAQs about East Meadow demographics 

What is the total population of East Meadow?

East Meadow has a total population of 49,369 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 +1.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in East Meadow?

The gender ratio in East Meadow is as follows:
  • 47.4% males (23,407 residents)
  • 52.6% females (25,962 residents)

What is the median age in East Meadow?

The median age in East Meadow is 43.

What is the age distribution of the population in East Meadow?

The age distribution in East Meadow is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.7% (8,247 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.6% (5,735 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.6% (12,158 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.2% (12,908 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.9% (10,322 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of East Meadow?

The racial and ethnic makeup of East Meadow is as follows:
  • White: 55% (27,143 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.6% (3,778 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (32 residents)
  • Asian: 17.6% (8,697 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (25 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.8% (4,848 residents)
  • Other: 9.8% (4,845 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 74.7% of the population in East Meadow.

How many housing units are there in East Meadow?

There are 16,354 housing units in East Meadow, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

East Meadow has a total of 15,818 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in East Meadow?

East Meadow has a median household income of $143,466, representing a +3.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for East Meadow?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.9% (19,680 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.1% (3,235 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (2,023 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.2% (14,713 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.4% (4,225 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.5% (1,954 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