Berks County, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
433,015
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$79,777/yr
2.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
171,580
0.2% year-over-year change

Berks County population

How many people live in Berks County

Berks County is home to 433,015 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Berks County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
433,015
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
214,748
Female
50.4%
218,267
Value Percent YoY change
Male 214,748 49.6% 0.7%
Female 218,267 50.4% 0.7%
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 Berks County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.9% are children under 15, then 13.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 25.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.9%
15 to 24
13.6%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
25.8%
Over 65
18%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 77,495 17.9% -0.1%
15 to 24 58,907 13.6% 0.9%
25 to 44 106,897 24.7% 1.6%
45 to 64 111,616 25.8% -0.9%
Over 65 78,100 18% 2.5%
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 Berks County, 85.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.6% of locals are Caucasian, 4.6% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 15% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.4%
Non-citizens
4.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 371,722 85.8% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 40,827 9.4% -1.8%
Non-citizens 20,466 4.7% 18.8%
Racial breakdown
White
69.6%
Black or African American
4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
15%
Other
8.8%
Value Percent
White 301,447 69.6%
Black or African American 19,969 4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,854 0.7%
Asian 5,859 1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 95 0%
Two or more races 64,821 15%
Other 37,970 8.8%

Households in Berks County

A peek inside Berks County households

Berks County has 163,236 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.5% are families, while the remaining 33.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
163,236
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
54,725
Family households
108,511
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 54,725 33.5% 1.4%
Family households 108,511 66.5% 0.7%
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 Berks County

The housing landscape of Berks County

Berks County's housing consists of 171,580 units, with 56.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 22.8% 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 2.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
171,580
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 96,704 56.4%
1 unit, attached 39,192 22.8%
2 units 6,527 3.8%
3 or 4 units 7,024 4.1%
5 to 9 units 5,214 3%
10 to 19 units 4,257 2.5%
20 to 49 units 2,492 1.4%
50 or more units 5,370 3.1%
Mobile home 4,738 2.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 62 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,501
36.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Berks County

In Berks County, the median construction year is 1969. About 27.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 47,206 27.5% -0.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 8,716 5.1% 2.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 17,024 9.9% -4.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 14,874 8.7% 4.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 21,274 12.4% 1.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 17,412 10.2% -3.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 19,832 11.6% 0.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 16,802 9.8% -0.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,939 4% 5.3%
Built in 2020 or later 1,501 0.9% 36.7%
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.

Berks County occupancy rates

Out of the 163,236 occupied housing units in Berks County, 71.3% are owner-occupied, while 28.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
163,236
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
46,902
Owner occupied
116,334
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 46,902 28.7% 0.2%
Owner occupied 116,334 71.3% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
4.9%
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.

Berks County housing costs

Housing costs in Berks County come to a median of $1,267 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,181.

Median housing costs per month
$1,267/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 Berks County
$1,181/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 Berks County

Berks County education at a glance

About 44.8% of the population in Berks County went to high school, while 16.7% pursued college studies. Another 8.7% earned an associate degree and 16.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 14,685 4.4% 2.4%
High school diploma 151,345 44.8% 0.4%
College diploma 56,319 16.7% -0.5%
Associate degree 29,294 8.7% 0.7%
Bachelor's degree 55,730 16.5% 1.5%
Graduate degree 30,502 9% 4.6%
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 Berks County

How much people earn in Berks County

The average annual household income in Berks County was $103,265 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $79,777, reflecting a +2.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Berks County
$103,265/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Berks County
$79,777/year
2.7% year-over-year change

Berks County income by age

In Berks County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $89,368. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $100,196 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,757, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,401 in earnings. Overall, 87.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,757 7.8%
25 - 44 $89,368 2.7%
45 - 64 $100,196 2.5%
Over 65 $56,401 4.0%
Above poverty level
365,735
Below poverty level
50,261
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 365,735 87.9% 0.2%
Below poverty level 50,261 12.1% 5.5%

Employment in Berks County

Workforce and job types in Berks County

The job market in Berks County is powered by 212,537 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.9% run their own businesses, 72.1% are employed by private companies, and 9.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
212,537
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
149,361
Blue collar
63,176
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 149,361 70.3% -0.0%
Blue collar 63,176 29.7% 1.7%
Employer type
Self employees
7.9%
Private companies
72.1%
Governmental workers
9.4%
Not for profit companies
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 16,771 7.9% 6.6%
Private companies 153,144 72.1% -0.4%
Governmental workers 20,069 9.4% 0.5%
Not for profit companies 22,553 10.6% 2.5%
Unemployment rate
5.4%
3.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Berks County stands at 5.4%, 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 Berks County

How people get around in Berks County

In Berks County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 82.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
1.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 171,899 82.5% -0.6%
Taxicab 1,260 0.6% 73.5%
Bus or trolleybus 1,834 0.9% -5.1%
Subway or elevated 67 0% N/A
Railroad 82 0% 215.4%
Ferryboat 34 0% 112.5%
Motorcycle 107 0% 18.9%
Bicycle 322 0.2% 32.5%
Walk 5,306 2.6% -9.1%
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 Berks County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
17067 15,815 6,140 $76,183 $93,350
18011 5,338 1,958 $104,449 $116,676
17087 2,370 901 $93,150 $105,119
17569 7,323 2,655 $96,313 $121,494
18056 1,489 382 $104,844 $94,013
18062 27,110 10,037 $110,675 $144,140
18070 223 145 $74,638 $79,291
17026 3,137 1,159 $102,663 $108,828
19503 1,149 485 $77,411 $90,872
19504 5,335 2,125 $98,859 $127,775

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FAQs about Berks County demographics 

What is the total population of Berks County?

Berks County has a total population of 433,015 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Berks County?

The gender ratio in Berks County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (214,748 residents)
  • 50.4% females (218,267 residents)

What is the median age in Berks County?

The median age in Berks County is 39.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Berks County?

The age distribution in Berks County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.9% (77,495 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.6% (58,907 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (106,897 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.8% (111,616 residents)
  • Over 65: 18% (78,100 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Berks County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Berks County is as follows:
  • White: 69.6% (301,447 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.6% (19,969 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (2,854 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (5,859 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (95 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15% (64,821 residents)
  • Other: 8.8% (37,970 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.8% of the population in Berks County.

How many housing units are there in Berks County?

There are 171,580 housing units in Berks County, 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 Berks County and what is the average household size?

Berks County has a total of 163,236 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Berks County?

Berks County has a median household income of $79,777, representing a +2.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Berks County?

The employment rate is 94.6% in Berks County, with a workforce of 212,537 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.3% (149,361 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.7% (63,176 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.9% (16,771 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.1% (153,144 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.4% (20,069 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.6% (22,553 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