Athens, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,243
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,000/yr
6.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,797
-2.3% year-over-year change

Athens population

How many people live in Athens

Athens is home to 3,243 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 57% of Athens locals are male, and 43% are female.

Total population
3,243
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
57%
1,849
Female
43%
1,394
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,849 57% 4.0%
Female 1,394 43% -5.9%
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 Athens is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.4% are children under 15, then 9.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23% of the population, while another 27.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
47
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.4%
15 to 24
9.1%
25 to 44
23%
45 to 64
27.9%
Over 65
22.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 565 17.4% 8.0%
15 to 24 295 9.1% -1.3%
25 to 44 746 23% 3.9%
45 to 64 905 27.9% -8.1%
Over 65 732 22.6% -0.4%
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 Athens, 96.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 93.5% of locals are Caucasian, 1.3% are African American and 2.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 1.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,124 96.3% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 54 1.7% 8.0%
Non-citizens 65 2% 16.1%
Racial breakdown
White
93.5%
Black or African American
1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
2.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
1.9%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 3,033 93.5%
Black or African American 41 1.3%
Asian 81 2.5%
Two or more races 62 1.9%
Other 26 0.8%

Households in Athens

A peek inside Athens households

Athens has 1,698 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 38.3% are families, while the remaining 61.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,698
-5.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,047
Family households
651
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,047 61.7% -5.0%
Family households 651 38.3% -5.4%
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 Athens

The housing landscape of Athens

Athens's housing consists of 1,797 units, with 56.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.8% 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 1.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,797
-2.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,023 56.9%
1 unit, attached 15 0.8%
2 units 275 15.3%
3 or 4 units 46 2.6%
5 to 9 units 155 8.6%
10 to 19 units 43 2.4%
50 or more units 212 11.8%
Mobile home 28 1.6%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Athens

In Athens, the median construction year is 1953. About 34.6% 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.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 622 34.6% 3.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 191 10.6% -8.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 261 14.5% 10.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 52 2.9% -1.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 532 29.6% -8.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 72 4% -13.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11 0.6% -54.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 12 0.7% -14.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 44 2.4% 15.8%
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.

Athens occupancy rates

Out of the 1,698 occupied housing units in Athens, 40.6% are owner-occupied, while 59.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,698
-5.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,009
Owner occupied
689
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,009 59.4% -1.9%
Owner occupied 689 40.6% -9.5%
Unoccupied housing units
5.5%
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.

Athens housing costs

Housing costs in Athens come to a median of $858 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $842.

Median housing costs per month
$858/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 Athens
$842/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 Athens

Athens education at a glance

About 40.4% of the population in Athens went to high school, while 18% pursued college studies. Another 12.2% earned an associate degree and 17.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 51 2% -7.3%
High school diploma 1,056 40.4% -0.2%
College diploma 470 18% -7.3%
Associate degree 319 12.2% 0.9%
Bachelor's degree 448 17.1% 4.4%
Graduate degree 272 10.4% -12.0%
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 Athens

How much people earn in Athens

The average annual household income in Athens was $75,214 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $53,000, reflecting a +6.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Athens
$75,214/year
3.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Athens
$53,000/year
6.9% year-over-year change

Athens income by age

In Athens, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $88,365. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,591 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,780, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $29,289 in earnings. Overall, 87.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,780 5.5%
25 - 44 $88,365 6.8%
45 - 64 $76,591 5.1%
Over 65 $29,289 7.4%
Above poverty level
2,759
Below poverty level
391
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,759 87.6% 2.3%
Below poverty level 391 12.4% -19.7%

Average renter income in Athens

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Athens, their median household income was $27,266 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$27,266
Rent-to-income ratio
37.1%
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 Athens

Workforce and job types in Athens

The job market in Athens is powered by 1,389 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 1.7% run their own businesses, 72.6% are employed by private companies, and 12.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,389
-10.3% year-over-year change
White collar
1,011
Blue collar
378
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,011 72.8% -5.9%
Blue collar 378 27.2% -20.4%
Employer type
Self employees
1.7%
Private companies
72.6%
Governmental workers
12.7%
Not for profit companies
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 23 1.7% 53.3%
Private companies 1,008 72.6% -12.8%
Governmental workers 177 12.7% -17.7%
Not for profit companies 181 13% 11.0%
Unemployment rate
9.4%
114.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Athens stands at 9.4%, 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 Athens

How people get around in Athens

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,285 96.5% -8.6%
Bus or trolleybus 8 0.6% 14.3%
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 Athens by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
18810 5,774 2,685 $58,750 $80,865

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FAQs about Athens demographics 

What is the total population of Athens?

Athens has a total population of 3,243 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Athens?

The gender ratio in Athens is as follows:
  • 57% males (1,849 residents)
  • 43% females (1,394 residents)

What is the median age in Athens?

The median age in Athens is 47.

What is the age distribution of the population in Athens?

The age distribution in Athens is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.4% (565 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.1% (295 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23% (746 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.9% (905 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.6% (732 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Athens?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Athens is as follows:
  • White: 93.5% (3,033 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.3% (41 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 2.5% (81 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 1.9% (62 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (26 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.3% of the population in Athens.

How many housing units are there in Athens?

There are 1,797 housing units in Athens, reflecting a -2.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Athens has a total of 1,698 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Athens?

Athens has a median household income of $53,000, representing a +6.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 90.6% in Athens, with a workforce of 1,389 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.8% (1,011 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.2% (378 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 1.7% (23 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.6% (1,008 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.7% (177 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13% (181 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