Cleveland, OH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
366,097
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$40,801/yr
4.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
201,141
0.3% year-over-year change

Cleveland population

How many people live in Cleveland

Cleveland is home to 366,097 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Cleveland locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
366,097
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
177,576
Female
51.5%
188,521
Value Percent YoY change
Male 177,576 48.5% -0.2%
Female 188,521 51.5% -0.6%
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 Cleveland is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.3% are children under 15, then 13.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.1% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.3%
15 to 24
13.3%
25 to 44
30.1%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
15.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 63,369 17.3% -1.8%
15 to 24 48,599 13.3% 0.1%
25 to 44 110,070 30.1% 1.4%
45 to 64 88,271 24.1% -2.5%
Over 65 55,788 15.2% 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 Cleveland, 89.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 35.6% of locals are Caucasian, 45.9% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7%
Non-citizens
3.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 328,903 89.8% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 25,460 7% -2.7%
Non-citizens 11,734 3.2% 1.5%
Racial breakdown
White
35.6%
Black or African American
45.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.5%
Other
5%
Value Percent
White 130,136 35.6%
Black or African American 168,153 45.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,148 0.3%
Asian 9,641 2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 80 0%
Two or more races 38,567 10.5%
Other 18,372 5%

Households in Cleveland

A peek inside Cleveland households

Cleveland has 169,683 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 44.6% are families, while the remaining 55.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
169,683
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
93,949
Family households
75,734
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 93,949 55.4% 1.6%
Family households 75,734 44.6% -0.6%
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 Cleveland

The housing landscape of Cleveland

Cleveland's housing consists of 201,141 units, with 45.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.7% 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 0.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
201,141
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 92,316 45.9%
1 unit, attached 15,457 7.7%
2 units 29,115 14.5%
3 or 4 units 10,756 5.4%
5 to 9 units 8,833 4.4%
10 to 19 units 8,221 4.1%
20 to 49 units 7,966 4%
50 or more units 27,453 13.6%
Mobile home 922 0.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 102 0%
Homes built since 2020
2,134
75.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cleveland

In Cleveland, the median construction year is 1941. About 48.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 97,668 48.6% -1.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 21,262 10.6% -2.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 24,198 12% -0.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 16,539 8.2% 5.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 11,427 5.7% 1.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,330 3.2% 6.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,736 2.8% -1.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7,834 3.9% 1.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8,013 4% 6.4%
Built in 2020 or later 2,134 1.1% 75.6%
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.

Cleveland occupancy rates

Out of the 169,683 occupied housing units in Cleveland, 41.7% are owner-occupied, while 58.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
169,683
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
98,879
Owner occupied
70,804
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 98,879 58.3% -0.3%
Owner occupied 70,804 41.7% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
15.6%
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.

Cleveland housing costs

Housing costs in Cleveland come to a median of $901 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $945.

Median housing costs per month
$901/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 Cleveland
$945/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 Cleveland

Cleveland education at a glance

About 45.9% of the population in Cleveland went to high school, while 21.9% pursued college studies. Another 6.6% earned an associate degree and 13.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 11,689 4% -7.7%
High school diploma 132,603 45.9% 0.3%
College diploma 63,237 21.9% -4.4%
Associate degree 19,182 6.6% 0.1%
Bachelor's degree 38,892 13.4% 6.1%
Graduate degree 23,566 8.2% 3.6%
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 Cleveland

How much people earn in Cleveland

The average annual household income in Cleveland was $58,928 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $40,801, reflecting a +4.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cleveland
$58,928/year
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cleveland
$40,801/year
4.1% year-over-year change

Cleveland income by age

In Cleveland, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $48,956. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $42,533 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $26,003, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $30,871 in earnings. Overall, 69.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $26,003 -8.2%
25 - 44 $48,956 6.5%
45 - 64 $42,533 4.4%
Over 65 $30,871 1.1%
Above poverty level
245,039
Below poverty level
106,996
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 245,039 69.6% -0.1%
Below poverty level 106,996 30.4% -1.2%

Average renter income in Cleveland

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Cleveland, their median household income was $28,151 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 40.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$28,151
Rent-to-income ratio
40.3%
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 Cleveland

Workforce and job types in Cleveland

The job market in Cleveland is powered by 160,614 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7% run their own businesses, 68% are employed by private companies, and 12.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
160,614
1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
122,477
Blue collar
38,137
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 122,477 76.3% 1.2%
Blue collar 38,137 23.7% 2.5%
Employer type
Self employees
7%
Private companies
68%
Governmental workers
12.1%
Not for profit companies
12.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 11,267 7% 6.5%
Private companies 109,168 68% 1.6%
Governmental workers 19,463 12.1% 6.3%
Not for profit companies 20,716 12.9% -5.2%
Unemployment rate
10.8%
-5.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cleveland stands at 10.8%, 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 Cleveland

How people get around in Cleveland

In Cleveland, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 74.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
-1.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 116,183 74.2% -0.2%
Taxicab 919 0.6% 16.6%
Bus or trolleybus 9,405 6% -3.5%
Subway or elevated 588 0.4% N/A
Railroad 47 0% -30.9%
Motorcycle 29 0% -6.5%
Bicycle 821 0.5% 2.8%
Walk 8,149 5.2% 0.3%
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 Cleveland by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
44101 666 0 $0 $0
44102 39,952 19,478 $42,714 $62,317
44103 13,941 6,870 $27,047 $37,729
44104 18,902 8,051 $24,111 $37,006
44105 32,115 13,962 $40,906 $53,882
44106 25,120 11,304 $43,170 $76,592
44108 19,381 8,794 $34,745 $55,085
44109 39,428 17,110 $42,872 $57,163
44110 17,009 8,661 $31,928 $52,067
44111 42,021 18,177 $57,252 $72,928

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FAQs about Cleveland demographics 

What is the total population of Cleveland?

Cleveland has a total population of 366,097 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 Cleveland?

The gender ratio in Cleveland is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (177,576 residents)
  • 51.5% females (188,521 residents)

What is the median age in Cleveland?

The median age in Cleveland is 36.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Cleveland?

The age distribution in Cleveland is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.3% (63,369 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.3% (48,599 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.1% (110,070 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (88,271 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.2% (55,788 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cleveland?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cleveland is as follows:
  • White: 35.6% (130,136 residents)
  • Black or African American: 45.9% (168,153 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (1,148 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (9,641 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (80 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.5% (38,567 residents)
  • Other: 5% (18,372 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.8% of the population in Cleveland.

How many housing units are there in Cleveland?

There are 201,141 housing units in Cleveland, 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 Cleveland and what is the average household size?

Cleveland has a total of 169,683 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cleveland?

Cleveland has a median household income of $40,801, representing a +4.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 89.2% in Cleveland, with a workforce of 160,614 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.3% (122,477 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.7% (38,137 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7% (11,267 residents)
  • Private companies: 68% (109,168 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.1% (19,463 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.9% (20,716 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