Garfield Heights, OH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
29,269
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,593/yr
5.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,000
0.2% year-over-year change

Garfield Heights population

How many people live in Garfield Heights

Garfield Heights is home to 29,269 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 43.8% of Garfield Heights locals are male, and 56.2% are female.

Total population
29,269
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
43.8%
12,819
Female
56.2%
16,450
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,819 43.8% -0.3%
Female 16,450 56.2% -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 Garfield Heights is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.7% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.9% of the population, while another 26.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.7%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
25.9%
45 to 64
26.1%
Over 65
16.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,760 19.7% -4.8%
15 to 24 3,565 12.2% -5.2%
25 to 44 7,585 25.9% 5.2%
45 to 64 7,633 26.1% -0.6%
Over 65 4,726 16.2% 1.2%
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 Garfield Heights, 96.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 30% of locals are Caucasian, 57.7% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 28,217 96.4% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 713 2.4% -10.9%
Non-citizens 339 1.2% 40.1%
Racial breakdown
White
30%
Black or African American
57.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.2%
Other
4%
Value Percent
White 8,781 30%
Black or African American 16,881 57.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 25 0.1%
Asian 20 0.1%
Two or more races 2,406 8.2%
Other 1,156 4%

Households in Garfield Heights

A peek inside Garfield Heights households

Garfield Heights has 11,946 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.2% are families, while the remaining 42.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,946
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,118
Family households
6,828
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,118 42.8% -0.5%
Family households 6,828 57.2% 1.0%
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 Garfield Heights

The housing landscape of Garfield Heights

Garfield Heights's housing consists of 13,000 units, with 74.4% 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.

Housing units
13,000
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,673 74.4%
1 unit, attached 285 2.2%
2 units 1,250 9.6%
3 or 4 units 74 0.6%
5 to 9 units 698 5.4%
10 to 19 units 467 3.6%
20 to 49 units 179 1.4%
50 or more units 374 2.9%
Homes built since 2020
8
-11.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Garfield Heights

In Garfield Heights, the median construction year is 1955. About 24.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,143 24.2% -0.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,607 12.4% 3.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,863 29.7% 0.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,861 14.3% -8.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,351 10.4% 9.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 204 1.6% -32.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 255 2% -1.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 545 4.2% 43.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 163 1.2% -8.4%
Built in 2020 or later 8 0.1% -11.1%
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.

Garfield Heights occupancy rates

Out of the 11,946 occupied housing units in Garfield Heights, 58.5% are owner-occupied, while 41.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,946
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,953
Owner occupied
6,993
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,953 41.5% -1.2%
Owner occupied 6,993 58.5% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
8.1%
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.

Garfield Heights housing costs

Housing costs in Garfield Heights come to a median of $1,058 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,129.

Median housing costs per month
$1,058/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 Garfield Heights
$1,129/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 Garfield Heights

Garfield Heights education at a glance

About 48.4% of the population in Garfield Heights went to high school, while 25.8% pursued college studies. Another 10.9% earned an associate degree and 8.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 425 1.9% -8.2%
High school diploma 10,967 48.4% 8.2%
College diploma 5,854 25.8% -0.5%
Associate degree 2,472 10.9% -10.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,871 8.2% 1.2%
Graduate degree 1,095 4.8% -13.2%
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 Garfield Heights

How much people earn in Garfield Heights

The average annual household income in Garfield Heights was $65,130 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,593, reflecting a +5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Garfield Heights
$65,130/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Garfield Heights
$54,593/year
5.0% year-over-year change

Garfield Heights income by age

In Garfield Heights, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $52,554. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $63,571 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,500, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,457 in earnings. Overall, 77.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,500 -21.7%
25 - 44 $52,554 -9.9%
45 - 64 $63,571 7.5%
Over 65 $43,457 6.3%
Above poverty level
22,072
Below poverty level
6,279
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 22,072 77.8% -1.0%
Below poverty level 6,279 22.2% 2.3%

Average renter income in Garfield Heights

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Garfield Heights, their median household income was $27,698 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 48.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$27,698
Rent-to-income ratio
48.9%
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 Garfield Heights

Workforce and job types in Garfield Heights

The job market in Garfield Heights is powered by 13,584 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.2% run their own businesses, 67.5% are employed by private companies, and 11.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,584
2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
9,236
Blue collar
4,348
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,236 68% -4.4%
Blue collar 4,348 32% 20.5%
Employer type
Self employees
7.2%
Private companies
67.5%
Governmental workers
11.6%
Not for profit companies
13.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 973 7.2% 28.2%
Private companies 9,167 67.5% 1.7%
Governmental workers 1,580 11.6% -6.1%
Not for profit companies 1,864 13.7% 2.4%
Unemployment rate
8.4%
-5.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Garfield Heights stands at 8.4%, 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 Garfield Heights

How people get around in Garfield Heights

In Garfield Heights, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
-7.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 11,576 86.6% -0.0%
Taxicab 29 0.2% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 143 1.1% -13.9%
Walk 308 2.3% -3.1%
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 Garfield Heights by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
44105 32,115 13,962 $40,906 $53,882
44125 29,461 11,992 $57,363 $71,510

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FAQs about Garfield Heights demographics 

What is the total population of Garfield Heights?

Garfield Heights has a total population of 29,269 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Garfield Heights?

The gender ratio in Garfield Heights is as follows:
  • 43.8% males (12,819 residents)
  • 56.2% females (16,450 residents)

What is the median age in Garfield Heights?

The median age in Garfield Heights is 38.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Garfield Heights?

The age distribution in Garfield Heights is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.7% (5,760 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (3,565 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.9% (7,585 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.1% (7,633 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.2% (4,726 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Garfield Heights?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Garfield Heights is as follows:
  • White: 30% (8,781 residents)
  • Black or African American: 57.7% (16,881 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (25 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (20 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.2% (2,406 residents)
  • Other: 4% (1,156 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.4% of the population in Garfield Heights.

How many housing units are there in Garfield Heights?

There are 13,000 housing units in Garfield Heights, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Garfield Heights has a total of 11,946 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Garfield Heights?

Garfield Heights has a median household income of $54,593, representing a +5.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Garfield Heights?

The employment rate is 91.6% in Garfield Heights, with a workforce of 13,584 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68% (9,236 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32% (4,348 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.2% (973 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.5% (9,167 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.6% (1,580 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.7% (1,864 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