Harrisburg, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
50,287
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$48,099/yr
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
24,130
-1.5% year-over-year change

Harrisburg population

How many people live in Harrisburg

Harrisburg is home to 50,287 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.4% of Harrisburg locals are male, and 52.6% are female.

Total population
50,287
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.4%
23,823
Female
52.6%
26,464
Value Percent YoY change
Male 23,823 47.4% -2.5%
Female 26,464 52.6% 3.1%
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 Harrisburg is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.7% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.7% of the population, while another 20.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.7%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
30.7%
45 to 64
20.4%
Over 65
12.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 11,910 23.7% -2.9%
15 to 24 6,248 12.4% 4.2%
25 to 44 15,420 30.7% 1.1%
45 to 64 10,238 20.4% -5.1%
Over 65 6,471 12.9% 11.6%
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 Harrisburg, 83% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 30.8% of locals are Caucasian, 43.2% are African American and 2.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 12% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
83%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.8%
Non-citizens
6.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 41,758 83% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,447 10.8% -5.3%
Non-citizens 3,082 6.1% 29.0%
Racial breakdown
White
30.8%
Black or African American
43.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
2.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
11.2%
Other
12%
Value Percent
White 15,496 30.8%
Black or African American 21,707 43.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 219 0.4%
Asian 1,110 2.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 56 0.1%
Two or more races 5,640 11.2%
Other 6,059 12%

Households in Harrisburg

A peek inside Harrisburg households

Harrisburg has 22,137 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 48.1% are families, while the remaining 51.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
22,137
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
11,497
Family households
10,640
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 11,497 51.9% 3.1%
Family households 10,640 48.1% -2.3%
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 Harrisburg

The housing landscape of Harrisburg

Harrisburg's housing consists of 24,130 units, with 14% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 43% 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% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
24,130
-1.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,390 14%
1 unit, attached 10,388 43%
2 units 1,431 5.9%
3 or 4 units 2,049 8.5%
5 to 9 units 1,615 6.7%
10 to 19 units 1,294 5.4%
20 to 49 units 947 3.9%
50 or more units 2,785 11.5%
Mobile home 231 1%
Homes built since 2020
54
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Harrisburg

In Harrisburg, the median construction year is 1947. About 43.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 10,425 43.2% -0.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,392 9.9% -6.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,240 13.4% -10.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,598 10.8% 3.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,939 8% 5.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,334 5.5% -7.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 728 3% -20.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 731 3% 16.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 689 2.9% 48.2%
Built in 2020 or later 54 0.2% N/A
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.

Harrisburg occupancy rates

Out of the 22,137 occupied housing units in Harrisburg, 36.6% are owner-occupied, while 63.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
22,137
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
14,044
Owner occupied
8,093
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 14,044 63.4% 0.4%
Owner occupied 8,093 36.6% 0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
8.3%
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.

Harrisburg housing costs

Housing costs in Harrisburg come to a median of $1,039 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,062.

Median housing costs per month
$1,039/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 Harrisburg
$1,062/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 Harrisburg

Harrisburg education at a glance

About 43% of the population in Harrisburg went to high school, while 20.4% pursued college studies. Another 6.3% earned an associate degree and 16.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,953 5.4% 7.2%
High school diploma 15,665 43% 1.1%
College diploma 7,416 20.4% 3.6%
Associate degree 2,282 6.3% -17.7%
Bachelor's degree 5,872 16.1% 0.8%
Graduate degree 3,258 8.9% 0.7%
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 Harrisburg

How much people earn in Harrisburg

The average annual household income in Harrisburg was $61,969 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $48,099, reflecting a +0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Harrisburg
$61,969/year
-1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Harrisburg
$48,099/year
0.7% year-over-year change

Harrisburg income by age

In Harrisburg, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $55,328. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $54,025 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,524, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $30,372 in earnings. Overall, 69.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,524 17.1%
25 - 44 $55,328 -6.8%
45 - 64 $54,025 10.4%
Over 65 $30,372 -12.5%
Above poverty level
34,068
Below poverty level
14,748
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 34,068 69.8% -1.7%
Below poverty level 14,748 30.2% 5.9%

Average renter income in Harrisburg

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Harrisburg, their median household income was $36,449 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$36,449
Rent-to-income ratio
35%
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 Harrisburg

Workforce and job types in Harrisburg

The job market in Harrisburg is powered by 21,421 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6% run their own businesses, 64.4% are employed by private companies, and 16.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
21,421
-4.8% year-over-year change
White collar
16,751
Blue collar
4,670
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 16,751 78.2% -7.5%
Blue collar 4,670 21.8% 6.1%
Employer type
Self employees
6%
Private companies
64.4%
Governmental workers
16.5%
Not for profit companies
13.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,283 6% -19.2%
Private companies 13,804 64.4% -6.7%
Governmental workers 3,533 16.5% -1.7%
Not for profit companies 2,801 13.1% 10.4%
Unemployment rate
11.4%
18.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Harrisburg stands at 11.4%, 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 Harrisburg

How people get around in Harrisburg

Commuting methods vary: 68.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 14,433 68.1% -5.2%
Taxicab 194 0.9% 16.9%
Bus or trolleybus 1,063 5% -13.4%
Subway or elevated 19 0.1% N/A
Railroad 13 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 56 0.3% 21.7%
Walk 1,597 7.5% -22.7%
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 Harrisburg by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
17101 2,722 1,914 $50,878 $59,236
17102 8,118 4,657 $54,573 $75,172
17103 13,115 4,999 $39,825 $56,016
17104 18,541 7,522 $46,510 $57,878
17109 27,466 10,960 $71,833 $85,784
17110 27,364 11,741 $80,699 $105,541
17111 36,744 14,538 $86,385 $103,987
17112 38,502 15,960 $103,876 $132,244
17113 11,724 4,631 $68,244 $85,712

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FAQs about Harrisburg demographics 

What is the total population of Harrisburg?

Harrisburg has a total population of 50,287 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Harrisburg?

The gender ratio in Harrisburg is as follows:
  • 47.4% males (23,823 residents)
  • 52.6% females (26,464 residents)

What is the median age in Harrisburg?

The median age in Harrisburg is 33.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Harrisburg?

The age distribution in Harrisburg is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.7% (11,910 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (6,248 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.7% (15,420 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.4% (10,238 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.9% (6,471 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Harrisburg?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Harrisburg is as follows:
  • White: 30.8% (15,496 residents)
  • Black or African American: 43.2% (21,707 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (219 residents)
  • Asian: 2.2% (1,110 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (56 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.2% (5,640 residents)
  • Other: 12% (6,059 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 83% of the population in Harrisburg.

How many housing units are there in Harrisburg?

There are 24,130 housing units in Harrisburg, reflecting a -1.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Harrisburg has a total of 22,137 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Harrisburg?

Harrisburg has a median household income of $48,099, representing a +0.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 88.6% in Harrisburg, with a workforce of 21,421 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.2% (16,751 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.8% (4,670 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6% (1,283 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.4% (13,804 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.5% (3,533 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.1% (2,801 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