Sandusky, OH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
24,606
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,139/yr
4.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,137
-1.1% year-over-year change

Sandusky population

How many people live in Sandusky

Sandusky is home to 24,606 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.9% of Sandusky locals are male, and 53.1% are female.

Total population
24,606
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.9%
11,532
Female
53.1%
13,074
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,532 46.9% 0.7%
Female 13,074 53.1% -1.6%
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 Sandusky is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 18% are children under 15, then 15.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.7% of the population, while another 24% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
18%
15 to 24
15.2%
25 to 44
25.7%
45 to 64
24%
Over 65
16.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,441 18% -2.2%
15 to 24 3,749 15.2% 13.0%
25 to 44 6,333 25.7% -5.3%
45 to 64 5,916 24% -1.6%
Over 65 4,167 16.9% -0.6%
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 Sandusky, 96.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 62% of locals are Caucasian, 22.1% are African American and 1.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
2.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 23,664 96.2% -1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 224 0.9% -43.9%
Non-citizens 718 2.9% 233.9%
Racial breakdown
White
62%
Black or African American
22.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.6%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 15,256 62%
Black or African American 5,438 22.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 28 0.1%
Asian 440 1.8%
Two or more races 2,351 9.6%
Other 1,093 4.4%

Households in Sandusky

A peek inside Sandusky households

Sandusky has 10,973 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.2% are families, while the remaining 43.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
10,973
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,802
Family households
6,171
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,802 43.8% 6.2%
Family households 6,171 56.2% -3.1%
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 Sandusky

The housing landscape of Sandusky

Sandusky's housing consists of 13,137 units, with 57.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.5% 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 2.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,137
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,596 57.8%
1 unit, attached 592 4.5%
2 units 845 6.4%
3 or 4 units 1,244 9.5%
5 to 9 units 771 5.9%
10 to 19 units 740 5.6%
20 to 49 units 302 2.3%
50 or more units 662 5%
Mobile home 385 2.9%
Homes built since 2020
59
210.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sandusky

In Sandusky, the median construction year is 1955. About 32% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,197 32% -6.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,191 9.1% 15.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,221 16.9% -11.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 999 7.6% -14.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,310 17.6% 6.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 766 5.8% 19.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 628 4.8% 12.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 633 4.8% 8.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 133 1% 7.3%
Built in 2020 or later 59 0.4% 210.5%
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.

Sandusky occupancy rates

Out of the 10,973 occupied housing units in Sandusky, 50.1% are owner-occupied, while 49.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
10,973
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,477
Owner occupied
5,496
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,477 49.9% -1.2%
Owner occupied 5,496 50.1% 2.8%
Unoccupied housing units
16.5%
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.

Sandusky housing costs

Housing costs in Sandusky come to a median of $879 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $905.

Median housing costs per month
$879/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 Sandusky
$905/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 Sandusky

Sandusky education at a glance

About 50.3% of the population in Sandusky went to high school, while 18.2% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 14.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 362 1.9% -25.8%
High school diploma 9,604 50.3% -2.9%
College diploma 3,467 18.2% -1.4%
Associate degree 1,703 8.9% 5.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,709 14.2% 4.7%
Graduate degree 1,245 6.5% 19.6%
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 Sandusky

How much people earn in Sandusky

The average annual household income in Sandusky was $63,432 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,139, reflecting a +4.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sandusky
$63,432/year
4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sandusky
$50,139/year
4.8% year-over-year change

Sandusky income by age

In Sandusky, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $47,768. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,188 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,429, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,989 in earnings. Overall, 74.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,429 19.4%
25 - 44 $47,768 3.3%
45 - 64 $61,188 1.7%
Over 65 $42,989 -3.5%
Above poverty level
17,972
Below poverty level
6,011
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,972 74.9% -2.2%
Below poverty level 6,011 25.1% 4.2%

Average renter income in Sandusky

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sandusky, their median household income was $32,681 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$32,681
Rent-to-income ratio
33.2%
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 Sandusky

Workforce and job types in Sandusky

The job market in Sandusky is powered by 11,872 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.9% run their own businesses, 74.9% are employed by private companies, and 10.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,872
3.2% year-over-year change
White collar
8,592
Blue collar
3,280
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,592 72.4% 5.1%
Blue collar 3,280 27.6% -1.4%
Employer type
Self employees
5.9%
Private companies
74.9%
Governmental workers
10.1%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 702 5.9% 9.2%
Private companies 8,894 74.9% 4.7%
Governmental workers 1,202 10.1% -5.2%
Not for profit companies 1,074 9% -1.3%
Unemployment rate
7.8%
-20.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sandusky stands at 7.8%, 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 Sandusky

How people get around in Sandusky

In Sandusky, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
1.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,792 84.1% -2.7%
Taxicab 88 0.8% -4.3%
Bus or trolleybus 836 7.2% 225.3%
Motorcycle 31 0.3% -8.8%
Bicycle 33 0.3% 120.0%
Walk 319 2.7% -4.8%
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 Sandusky by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
44870 39,883 17,171 $62,082 $77,917

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FAQs about Sandusky demographics 

What is the total population of Sandusky?

Sandusky has a total population of 24,606 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sandusky?

The gender ratio in Sandusky is as follows:
  • 46.9% males (11,532 residents)
  • 53.1% females (13,074 residents)

What is the median age in Sandusky?

The median age in Sandusky is 36.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sandusky?

The age distribution in Sandusky is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18% (4,441 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.2% (3,749 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.7% (6,333 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24% (5,916 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.9% (4,167 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sandusky?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sandusky is as follows:
  • White: 62% (15,256 residents)
  • Black or African American: 22.1% (5,438 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (28 residents)
  • Asian: 1.8% (440 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.6% (2,351 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (1,093 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.2% of the population in Sandusky.

How many housing units are there in Sandusky?

There are 13,137 housing units in Sandusky, reflecting a -1.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sandusky has a total of 10,973 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sandusky?

Sandusky has a median household income of $50,139, representing a +4.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.2% in Sandusky, with a workforce of 11,872 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.4% (8,592 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.6% (3,280 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.9% (702 residents)
  • Private companies: 74.9% (8,894 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.1% (1,202 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (1,074 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