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

Total population
28,922
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$104,073/yr
6.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,947
-1.8% year-over-year change

Shaker Heights population

How many people live in Shaker Heights

Shaker Heights is home to 28,922 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.7% of Shaker Heights locals are male, and 53.3% are female.

Total population
28,922
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.7%
13,496
Female
53.3%
15,426
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,496 46.7% 2.2%
Female 15,426 53.3% -2.3%
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 Shaker Heights is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 9.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.8% of the population, while another 23.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
9.5%
25 to 44
25.8%
45 to 64
23.7%
Over 65
21.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,651 19.5% -0.1%
15 to 24 2,737 9.5% -6.3%
25 to 44 7,459 25.8% 4.3%
45 to 64 6,842 23.7% -1.5%
Over 65 6,233 21.6% -1.6%
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 Shaker Heights, 88.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 55.2% of locals are Caucasian, 33.1% are African American and 3.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.6%
Non-citizens
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 25,687 88.8% -1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,629 5.6% 4.0%
Non-citizens 1,606 5.6% 28.1%
Racial breakdown
White
55.2%
Black or African American
33.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
3.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.6%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 15,979 55.2%
Black or African American 9,566 33.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 16 0.1%
Asian 1,090 3.8%
Two or more races 1,609 5.6%
Other 662 2.3%

Households in Shaker Heights

A peek inside Shaker Heights households

Shaker Heights has 12,806 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.9% are families, while the remaining 42.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,806
-1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,387
Family households
7,419
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,387 42.1% -4.4%
Family households 7,419 57.9% 0.3%
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 Shaker Heights

The housing landscape of Shaker Heights

Shaker Heights's housing consists of 13,947 units, with 53.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
13,947
-1.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,490 53.7%
1 unit, attached 356 2.6%
2 units 1,418 10.2%
3 or 4 units 270 1.9%
5 to 9 units 803 5.8%
10 to 19 units 555 4%
20 to 49 units 1,080 7.7%
50 or more units 1,920 13.8%
Mobile home 7 0%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 48 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
14
7.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Shaker Heights

In Shaker Heights, the median construction year is 1945. About 42.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 15.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.1% 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 5,895 42.3% -6.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,173 15.6% 10.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,876 20.6% -3.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,061 7.6% -15.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 643 4.6% 16.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 284 2% -5.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 378 2.7% 19.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 329 2.4% -3.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 294 2.1% 59.8%
Built in 2020 or later 14 0.1% 7.7%
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.

Shaker Heights occupancy rates

Out of the 12,806 occupied housing units in Shaker Heights, 60.3% are owner-occupied, while 39.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,806
-1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,081
Owner occupied
7,725
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,081 39.7% -2.0%
Owner occupied 7,725 60.3% -1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
8.2%
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.

Shaker Heights housing costs

Housing costs in Shaker Heights come to a median of $1,520 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,168.

Median housing costs per month
$1,520/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 Shaker Heights
$1,168/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 Shaker Heights

Shaker Heights education at a glance

About 11.8% of the population in Shaker Heights went to high school, while 14.8% pursued college studies. Another 6.2% earned an associate degree and 28.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 37.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 150 0.7% 37.6%
High school diploma 2,615 11.8% 2.8%
College diploma 3,282 14.8% -0.1%
Associate degree 1,360 6.2% -14.5%
Bachelor's degree 6,387 28.9% 3.6%
Graduate degree 8,319 37.6% -2.4%
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 Shaker Heights

How much people earn in Shaker Heights

The average annual household income in Shaker Heights was $165,179 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $104,073, reflecting a +6.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Shaker Heights
$165,179/year
4.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Shaker Heights
$104,073/year
6.5% year-over-year change

Shaker Heights income by age

In Shaker Heights, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $112,625. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $123,182 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $56,942, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $82,849 in earnings. Overall, 91.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $56,942 6.5%
25 - 44 $112,625 5.5%
45 - 64 $123,182 -1.4%
Over 65 $82,849 8.3%
Above poverty level
26,090
Below poverty level
2,350
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 26,090 91.7% -1.6%
Below poverty level 2,350 8.3% 17.4%

Average renter income in Shaker Heights

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Shaker Heights, their median household income was $50,194 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$50,194
Rent-to-income ratio
27.9%
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 Shaker Heights

Workforce and job types in Shaker Heights

The job market in Shaker Heights is powered by 14,620 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 93.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 6.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.5% run their own businesses, 50.4% are employed by private companies, and 15.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,620
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
13,671
Blue collar
949
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,671 93.5% 1.3%
Blue collar 949 6.5% -5.1%
Employer type
Self employees
9.5%
Private companies
50.4%
Governmental workers
15.2%
Not for profit companies
24.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,390 9.5% 8.8%
Private companies 7,370 50.4% 1.7%
Governmental workers 2,219 15.2% 1.8%
Not for profit companies 3,641 24.9% -4.1%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
-5.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights

How people get around in Shaker Heights

In Shaker Heights, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 70.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.3% 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
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,062 70.2% -5.8%
Bus or trolleybus 348 2.4% -1.4%
Subway or elevated 95 0.7% N/A
Bicycle 71 0.5% -7.8%
Walk 186 1.3% -0.5%
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 Shaker Heights by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
44120 33,202 16,759 $47,126 $80,242
44122 36,678 15,981 $101,230 $157,949

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FAQs about Shaker Heights demographics 

What is the total population of Shaker Heights?

Shaker Heights has a total population of 28,922 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 Shaker Heights?

The gender ratio in Shaker Heights is as follows:
  • 46.7% males (13,496 residents)
  • 53.3% females (15,426 residents)

What is the median age in Shaker Heights?

The median age in Shaker Heights is 41.8.

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

The age distribution in Shaker Heights is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (5,651 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.5% (2,737 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.8% (7,459 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.7% (6,842 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.6% (6,233 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Shaker Heights?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Shaker Heights is as follows:
  • White: 55.2% (15,979 residents)
  • Black or African American: 33.1% (9,566 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (16 residents)
  • Asian: 3.8% (1,090 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.6% (1,609 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (662 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.8% of the population in Shaker Heights.

How many housing units are there in Shaker Heights?

There are 13,947 housing units in Shaker Heights, reflecting a -1.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Shaker Heights has a total of 12,806 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Shaker Heights?

Shaker Heights has a median household income of $104,073, representing a +6.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.4% in Shaker Heights, with a workforce of 14,620 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 93.5% (13,671 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 6.5% (949 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.5% (1,390 residents)
  • Private companies: 50.4% (7,370 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.2% (2,219 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 24.9% (3,641 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