Wantagh, NY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,365
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$179,362/yr
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,015
0.8% year-over-year change

Wantagh population

How many people live in Wantagh

Wantagh is home to 18,365 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.9% of Wantagh locals are male, and 48.1% are female.

Total population
18,365
2.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.9%
9,534
Female
48.1%
8,831
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,534 51.9% 1.7%
Female 8,831 48.1% 2.8%
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 Wantagh is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.6% are children under 15, then 12.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.3% of the population, while another 29.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.6%
15 to 24
12.9%
25 to 44
22.3%
45 to 64
29.4%
Over 65
15.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,593 19.6% 7.7%
15 to 24 2,361 12.9% -2.0%
25 to 44 4,099 22.3% -0.4%
45 to 64 5,391 29.4% 7.1%
Over 65 2,921 15.9% -4.8%
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 Wantagh, 91.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 3.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.9%
Non-citizens
1.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,779 91.4% 3.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,265 6.9% -12.0%
Non-citizens 321 1.8% 23.9%
Racial breakdown
White
85.1%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
3.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.7%
Other
1.7%
Value Percent
White 15,623 85.1%
Black or African American 103 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 29 0.2%
Asian 707 3.8%
Two or more races 1,593 8.7%
Other 310 1.7%

Households in Wantagh

A peek inside Wantagh households

Wantagh has 5,828 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 83.7% are families, while the remaining 16.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,828
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
949
Family households
4,879
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 949 16.3% -6.5%
Family households 4,879 83.7% 1.6%
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 Wantagh

The housing landscape of Wantagh

Wantagh's housing consists of 6,015 units, with 93.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,015
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,610 93.3%
1 unit, attached 74 1.2%
2 units 126 2.1%
3 or 4 units 52 0.9%
10 to 19 units 17 0.3%
20 to 49 units 41 0.7%
50 or more units 10 0.2%
Mobile home 85 1.4%
Homes built since 2020
38
72.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wantagh

In Wantagh, the median construction year is 1957. About 11.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 1.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 694 11.5% -11.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 689 11.4% 11.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,463 41% 1.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,176 19.6% -0.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 406 6.8% 5.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 212 3.5% -1.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 175 2.9% -5.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 90 1.5% 12.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 72 1.2% -8.9%
Built in 2020 or later 38 0.6% 72.7%
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.

Wantagh occupancy rates

Out of the 5,828 occupied housing units in Wantagh, 95.3% are owner-occupied, while 4.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,828
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
274
Owner occupied
5,554
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 274 4.7% 7.0%
Owner occupied 5,554 95.3% -0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
3.1%
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.

Wantagh housing costs

Housing costs in Wantagh come to a median of $3,239 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,270.

Median housing costs per month
$3,239/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 Wantagh
$2,270/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 Wantagh

Wantagh education at a glance

About 23.4% of the population in Wantagh went to high school, while 15.5% pursued college studies. Another 7.4% earned an associate degree and 28.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 23% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 307 2.2% 8.1%
High school diploma 3,241 23.4% 0.3%
College diploma 2,145 15.5% -5.1%
Associate degree 1,032 7.4% -0.7%
Bachelor's degree 3,939 28.4% 8.9%
Graduate degree 3,180 23% 0.9%
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 Wantagh

How much people earn in Wantagh

The average annual household income in Wantagh was $203,877 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $179,362, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wantagh
$203,877/year
6.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wantagh
$179,362/year
2.6% year-over-year change

Wantagh income by age

In Wantagh, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $195,518. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $199,442 overall. Overall, 96.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $195,518 -2.0%
45 - 64 $199,442 2.3%
Over 65 $116,563 -0.1%
Above poverty level
17,547
Below poverty level
568
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,547 96.9% 1.6%
Below poverty level 568 3.1% 12.5%

Average renter income in Wantagh

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Wantagh, their median household income was $59,844 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 45.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$59,844
Rent-to-income ratio
45.5%
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 Wantagh

Workforce and job types in Wantagh

The job market in Wantagh is powered by 9,205 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.9% run their own businesses, 59.6% are employed by private companies, and 21.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,205
5.8% year-over-year change
White collar
8,054
Blue collar
1,151
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,054 87.5% 6.5%
Blue collar 1,151 12.5% 0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.9%
Private companies
59.6%
Governmental workers
21.4%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 915 9.9% 17.3%
Private companies 5,486 59.6% 5.7%
Governmental workers 1,972 21.4% 4.5%
Not for profit companies 832 9% -1.5%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
9.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wantagh 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 Wantagh

How people get around in Wantagh

Commuting methods vary: 68.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.6% 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 6,155 68.2% 0.5%
Taxicab 51 0.6% 21.4%
Bus or trolleybus 24 0.3% 200.0%
Subway or elevated 225 2.5% N/A
Railroad 796 8.8% 16.7%
Walk 56 0.6% -22.2%
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 Wantagh by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
11793 32,349 10,492 $167,068 $189,578

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FAQs about Wantagh demographics 

What is the total population of Wantagh?

Wantagh has a total population of 18,365 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 +2.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wantagh?

The gender ratio in Wantagh is as follows:
  • 51.9% males (9,534 residents)
  • 48.1% females (8,831 residents)

What is the median age in Wantagh?

The median age in Wantagh is 41.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Wantagh?

The age distribution in Wantagh is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.6% (3,593 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.9% (2,361 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.3% (4,099 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.4% (5,391 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.9% (2,921 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wantagh?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wantagh is as follows:
  • White: 85.1% (15,623 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (103 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (29 residents)
  • Asian: 3.8% (707 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.7% (1,593 residents)
  • Other: 1.7% (310 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.4% of the population in Wantagh.

How many housing units are there in Wantagh?

There are 6,015 housing units in Wantagh, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wantagh has a total of 5,828 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wantagh?

Wantagh has a median household income of $179,362, representing a +2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.4% in Wantagh, with a workforce of 9,205 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87.5% (8,054 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12.5% (1,151 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.9% (915 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.6% (5,486 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.4% (1,972 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (832 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