Lehigh Valley, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
765,693
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$82,055/yr
2.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
316,098
0.6% year-over-year change

Lehigh Valley population

How many people live in Lehigh Valley

Lehigh Valley is home to 765,693 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Lehigh Valley locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
765,693
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
378,186
Female
50.6%
387,508
Value Percent YoY change
Male 378,186 49.4% 0.9%
Female 387,508 50.6% 0.9%
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 Lehigh Valley is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 13.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.9% of the population, while another 25.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
13.2%
25 to 44
24.9%
45 to 64
25.8%
Over 65
19.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 128,667 16.8% -0.5%
15 to 24 101,217 13.2% 2.0%
25 to 44 190,931 24.9% 1.6%
45 to 64 197,683 25.8% -0.9%
Over 65 147,195 19.2% 2.9%
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 Lehigh Valley, 84.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.7% of locals are Caucasian, 6% are African American and 3.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.7%
Non-citizens
4.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 647,231 84.5% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 81,837 10.7% 1.8%
Non-citizens 36,626 4.8% 9.1%
Racial breakdown
White
69.7%
Black or African American
6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.1%
Other
8.7%
Value Percent
White 533,538 69.7%
Black or African American 46,197 6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,680 0.4%
Asian 23,620 3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 208 0%
Two or more races 92,824 12.1%
Other 66,626 8.7%

Households in Lehigh Valley

A peek inside Lehigh Valley households

Lehigh Valley has 295,452 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.9% are families, while the remaining 33.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
295,452
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
97,720
Family households
197,732
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 97,720 33.1% 1.5%
Family households 197,732 66.9% 0.5%
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 Lehigh Valley

The housing landscape of Lehigh Valley

Lehigh Valley's housing consists of 316,098 units, with 55.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 21.7% 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 2.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
316,098
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 175,394 55.5%
1 unit, attached 68,522 21.7%
2 units 12,633 4%
3 or 4 units 13,206 4.2%
5 to 9 units 11,323 3.6%
10 to 19 units 10,448 3.3%
20 to 49 units 6,649 2.1%
50 or more units 10,327 3.3%
Mobile home 7,510 2.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 88 0%
Homes built since 2020
3,259
92.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lehigh Valley

In Lehigh Valley, the median construction year is 1970. About 25.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 80,299 25.4% -0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 16,280 5.2% -1.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 32,764 10.4% -1.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 28,873 9.1% -0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 37,936 12% 2.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 34,007 10.8% 0.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 30,356 9.6% -0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 34,576 10.9% -1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 17,747 5.6% 8.6%
Built in 2020 or later 3,259 1% 92.2%
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.

Lehigh Valley occupancy rates

Out of the 295,452 occupied housing units in Lehigh Valley, 69.1% are owner-occupied, while 30.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
295,452
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
91,338
Owner occupied
204,114
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 91,338 30.9% 0.4%
Owner occupied 204,114 69.1% 1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
6.5%
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.

Lehigh Valley housing costs

Housing costs in Lehigh Valley come to a median of $1,337 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,331.

Median housing costs per month
$1,337/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 Lehigh Valley
$1,331/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 Lehigh Valley

Lehigh Valley education at a glance

About 38.6% of the population in Lehigh Valley went to high school, while 18.7% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 19.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 17,688 2.9% 1.5%
High school diploma 234,725 38.6% -0.7%
College diploma 113,431 18.7% -0.1%
Associate degree 55,412 9.1% 3.8%
Bachelor's degree 117,184 19.3% 3.1%
Graduate degree 69,078 11.4% 5.1%
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 Lehigh Valley

How much people earn in Lehigh Valley

The average annual household income in Lehigh Valley was $111,796 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $82,055, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lehigh Valley
$111,796/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lehigh Valley
$82,055/year
2.9% year-over-year change

Lehigh Valley income by age

In Lehigh Valley, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $96,784. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $104,375 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,128, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $58,339 in earnings. Overall, 89.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,128 6.1%
25 - 44 $96,784 1.5%
45 - 64 $104,375 1.5%
Over 65 $58,339 -0.7%
Above poverty level
658,697
Below poverty level
75,907
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 658,697 89.7% 0.9%
Below poverty level 75,907 10.3% 0.1%

Employment in Lehigh Valley

Workforce and job types in Lehigh Valley

74.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.5% run their own businesses, 70.9% are employed by private companies, and 9.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
282,604
Blue collar
95,135
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 282,604 74.8% 1.3%
Blue collar 95,135 25.2% 1.8%
Employer type
Self employees
7.5%
Private companies
70.9%
Governmental workers
9.3%
Not for profit companies
12.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 28,441 7.5% 4.5%
Private companies 267,717 70.9% 1.0%
Governmental workers 35,073 9.3% 2.3%
Not for profit companies 46,508 12.3% 0.9%

Transportation in Lehigh Valley

How people get around in Lehigh Valley

In Lehigh Valley, the average commute time is 439 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 95.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
439 min
15.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 301,004 95.8% -1.0%
Taxicab 1,070 0.3% 73.1%
Bus or trolleybus 3,896 1.2% -2.9%
Railroad 144 0% -25.4%
Ferryboat 16 0% -11.1%
Motorcycle 92 0% 15.0%
Bicycle 526 0.2% -5.0%
Walk 7,394 2.4% -1.8%
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 Lehigh Valley by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
18011 5,338 1,958 $104,449 $116,676
18013 17,597 6,755 $78,847 $114,014
18014 12,097 4,617 $82,027 $102,856
18015 34,852 12,150 $60,800 $99,146
18017 40,640 16,597 $91,173 $113,743
18018 32,965 14,119 $75,417 $102,678
18020 21,204 7,791 $126,166 $149,298
18030 483 185 $68,173 $92,622
18031 11,570 4,098 $113,625 $157,986
18032 9,555 4,083 $81,098 $95,549

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FAQs about Lehigh Valley demographics 

What is the total population of Lehigh Valley?

Lehigh Valley has a total population of 765,693 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lehigh Valley?

The gender ratio in Lehigh Valley is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (378,186 residents)
  • 50.6% females (387,508 residents)

What is the median age in Lehigh Valley?

The median age in Lehigh Valley is 45.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lehigh Valley?

The age distribution in Lehigh Valley is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (128,667 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.2% (101,217 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.9% (190,931 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.8% (197,683 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.2% (147,195 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lehigh Valley?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lehigh Valley is as follows:
  • White: 69.7% (533,538 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6% (46,197 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (2,680 residents)
  • Asian: 3.1% (23,620 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (208 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.1% (92,824 residents)
  • Other: 8.7% (66,626 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.5% of the population in Lehigh Valley.

How many housing units are there in Lehigh Valley?

There are 316,098 housing units in Lehigh Valley, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lehigh Valley has a total of 295,452 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lehigh Valley?

Lehigh Valley has a median household income of $82,055, representing a +2.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Lehigh Valley?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.8% (282,604 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.2% (95,135 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.5% (28,441 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.9% (267,717 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.3% (35,073 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.3% (46,508 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