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

Total population
289,593
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,242/yr
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
127,828
0.5% year-over-year change

Dauphin County population

How many people live in Dauphin County

Dauphin County is home to 289,593 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Dauphin County locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
289,593
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
141,460
Female
51.2%
148,133
Value Percent YoY change
Male 141,460 48.8% 0.8%
Female 148,133 51.2% 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 Dauphin County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.5% are children under 15, then 12% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.6% of the population, while another 24.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.5%
15 to 24
12%
25 to 44
26.6%
45 to 64
24.9%
Over 65
18%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 53,612 18.5% 0.1%
15 to 24 34,727 12% 1.0%
25 to 44 77,033 26.6% 2.4%
45 to 64 72,000 24.9% -1.9%
Over 65 52,221 18% 2.6%
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 Dauphin County, 87% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 63% of locals are Caucasian, 17.2% are African American and 6.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.4%
Non-citizens
4.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 251,890 87% 0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 24,380 8.4% 2.5%
Non-citizens 13,323 4.6% 12.0%
Racial breakdown
White
63%
Black or African American
17.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
6.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.2%
Other
4.7%
Value Percent
White 182,570 63%
Black or African American 49,862 17.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 832 0.3%
Asian 18,938 6.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 57 0%
Two or more races 23,616 8.2%
Other 13,718 4.7%

Households in Dauphin County

A peek inside Dauphin County households

Dauphin County has 121,358 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.5% are families, while the remaining 39.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
121,358
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
47,893
Family households
73,465
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 47,893 39.5% 2.2%
Family households 73,465 60.5% 0.8%
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 Dauphin County

The housing landscape of Dauphin County

Dauphin County's housing consists of 127,828 units, with 49.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 22.4% 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 2.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
127,828
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 63,327 49.5%
1 unit, attached 28,682 22.4%
2 units 3,906 3.1%
3 or 4 units 6,413 5%
5 to 9 units 6,992 5.5%
10 to 19 units 6,217 4.9%
20 to 49 units 3,142 2.5%
50 or more units 5,757 4.5%
Mobile home 3,368 2.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 24 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,539
74.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dauphin County

In Dauphin County, the median construction year is 1972. About 19.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 24,398 19.1% -2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 7,361 5.8% -5.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 17,726 13.9% 1.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 11,737 9.2% -7.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 17,659 13.8% -1.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 13,015 10.2% -0.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 14,160 11.1% 5.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 12,176 9.5% 6.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8,057 6.3% 7.6%
Built in 2020 or later 1,539 1.2% 74.1%
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.

Dauphin County occupancy rates

Out of the 121,358 occupied housing units in Dauphin County, 63.1% are owner-occupied, while 36.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
121,358
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
44,802
Owner occupied
76,556
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 44,802 36.9% 2.0%
Owner occupied 76,556 63.1% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
5.1%
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.

Dauphin County housing costs

Housing costs in Dauphin County come to a median of $1,243 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,217.

Median housing costs per month
$1,243/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 Dauphin County
$1,217/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 Dauphin County

Dauphin County education at a glance

About 38.3% of the population in Dauphin County went to high school, while 17% pursued college studies. Another 8.8% earned an associate degree and 20.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 7,614 3.4% 5.1%
High school diploma 86,185 38.3% -0.5%
College diploma 38,285 17% 3.1%
Associate degree 19,745 8.8% -1.9%
Bachelor's degree 47,004 20.9% 0.6%
Graduate degree 26,042 11.6% 3.7%
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 Dauphin County

How much people earn in Dauphin County

The average annual household income in Dauphin County was $101,339 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,242, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dauphin County
$101,339/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dauphin County
$76,242/year
2.8% year-over-year change

Dauphin County income by age

In Dauphin County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,875. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,417 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,268, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $59,435 in earnings. Overall, 87.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,268 16.1%
25 - 44 $83,875 1.9%
45 - 64 $89,417 1.6%
Over 65 $59,435 2.4%
Above poverty level
245,668
Below poverty level
36,112
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 245,668 87.2% -0.0%
Below poverty level 36,112 12.8% 5.9%

Employment in Dauphin County

Workforce and job types in Dauphin County

The job market in Dauphin County is powered by 142,626 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 63.7% are employed by private companies, and 16.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
142,626
0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
112,975
Blue collar
29,651
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 112,975 79.2% -0.5%
Blue collar 29,651 20.8% 2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
63.7%
Governmental workers
16.6%
Not for profit companies
12.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 10,614 7.4% -4.2%
Private companies 90,850 63.7% -0.3%
Governmental workers 23,673 16.6% 2.7%
Not for profit companies 17,489 12.3% 0.9%
Unemployment rate
4.5%
4.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dauphin County stands at 4.5%, 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 Dauphin County

How people get around in Dauphin County

In Dauphin County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.8% 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
-1.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 108,237 76.7% -3.0%
Taxicab 831 0.6% 43.3%
Bus or trolleybus 1,642 1.2% -8.6%
Subway or elevated 121 0.1% N/A
Railroad 37 0% -24.5%
Ferryboat 31 0% N/A
Motorcycle 225 0.2% 38.9%
Bicycle 249 0.2% 0.4%
Walk 4,006 2.8% 2.8%
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 Dauphin County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
17005 289 120 $61,429 $94,903
17018 3,902 1,877 $72,188 $100,627
17022 31,908 12,477 $86,767 $109,153
17023 3,489 1,348 $79,435 $98,462
17028 3,563 1,456 $59,554 $101,625
17030 541 309 $0 $62,789
17032 7,551 3,228 $81,250 $97,053
17033 16,481 6,469 $72,945 $112,333
17034 3,071 1,459 $52,700 $62,845
17036 23,520 9,862 $115,533 $156,390

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FAQs about Dauphin County demographics 

What is the total population of Dauphin County?

Dauphin County has a total population of 289,593 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 Dauphin County?

The gender ratio in Dauphin County is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (141,460 residents)
  • 51.2% females (148,133 residents)

What is the median age in Dauphin County?

The median age in Dauphin County is 39.4.

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

The age distribution in Dauphin County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.5% (53,612 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12% (34,727 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.6% (77,033 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.9% (72,000 residents)
  • Over 65: 18% (52,221 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dauphin County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dauphin County is as follows:
  • White: 63% (182,570 residents)
  • Black or African American: 17.2% (49,862 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (832 residents)
  • Asian: 6.5% (18,938 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (57 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.2% (23,616 residents)
  • Other: 4.7% (13,718 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 87% of the population in Dauphin County.

How many housing units are there in Dauphin County?

There are 127,828 housing units in Dauphin County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Dauphin County has a total of 121,358 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dauphin County?

Dauphin County has a median household income of $76,242, representing a +2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.5% in Dauphin County, with a workforce of 142,626 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.2% (112,975 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.8% (29,651 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (10,614 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.7% (90,850 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.6% (23,673 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.3% (17,489 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