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

Total population
318,580
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$89,184/yr
2.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
129,448
0.7% year-over-year change

Northampton County population

How many people live in Northampton County

Northampton County is home to 318,580 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Northampton County locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
318,580
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
157,820
Female
50.5%
160,760
Value Percent YoY change
Male 157,820 49.5% 0.9%
Female 160,760 50.5% 0.8%
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 Northampton County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 14.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
42
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
14.3%
25 to 44
24%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
20.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 49,111 15.4% -1.0%
15 to 24 45,570 14.3% 2.9%
25 to 44 76,327 24% 1.3%
45 to 64 82,829 26% -1.1%
Over 65 64,743 20.3% 3.0%
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 Northampton County, 88% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.2% of locals are Caucasian, 6.3% are African American and 3.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.7%
Non-citizens
3.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 280,461 88% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 27,633 8.7% 1.8%
Non-citizens 10,486 3.3% 7.7%
Racial breakdown
White
74.2%
Black or African American
6.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.9%
Other
6.2%
Value Percent
White 236,417 74.2%
Black or African American 20,188 6.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 635 0.2%
Asian 9,781 3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 155 0%
Two or more races 31,528 9.9%
Other 19,876 6.2%

Households in Northampton County

A peek inside Northampton County households

Northampton County has 122,624 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.5% are families, while the remaining 32.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
122,624
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
39,820
Family households
82,804
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 39,820 32.5% 0.1%
Family households 82,804 67.5% 1.4%
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 Northampton County

The housing landscape of Northampton County

Northampton County's housing consists of 129,448 units, with 58.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 20% 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 2.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
129,448
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 75,171 58.1%
1 unit, attached 25,884 20%
2 units 5,577 4.3%
3 or 4 units 5,515 4.3%
5 to 9 units 4,255 3.3%
10 to 19 units 3,069 2.4%
20 to 49 units 3,020 2.3%
50 or more units 3,653 2.8%
Mobile home 3,273 2.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 31 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,444
113.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Northampton County

In Northampton County, the median construction year is 1971. About 26.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 33,927 26.2% -1.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,969 4.6% -4.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 12,761 9.9% 0.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 10,611 8.2% -0.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 14,601 11.3% 6.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 13,764 10.6% 4.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 12,827 9.9% -5.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 15,470 12% -2.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8,074 6.2% 7.1%
Built in 2020 or later 1,444 1.1% 113.6%
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.

Northampton County occupancy rates

Out of the 122,624 occupied housing units in Northampton County, 71.1% are owner-occupied, while 28.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
122,624
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
35,423
Owner occupied
87,201
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 35,423 28.9% 1.0%
Owner occupied 87,201 71.1% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
5.3%
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.

Northampton County housing costs

Housing costs in Northampton County come to a median of $1,414 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,395.

Median housing costs per month
$1,414/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 Northampton County
$1,395/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 Northampton County

Northampton County education at a glance

About 36.6% of the population in Northampton County went to high school, while 20.1% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 19.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 5,514 2.1% 2.6%
High school diploma 94,241 36.6% -1.6%
College diploma 51,887 20.1% 1.2%
Associate degree 23,814 9.2% 3.7%
Bachelor's degree 50,987 19.8% 3.0%
Graduate degree 31,126 12.1% 5.2%
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 Northampton County

How much people earn in Northampton County

The average annual household income in Northampton County was $115,853 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $89,184, reflecting a +2.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Northampton County
$115,853/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Northampton County
$89,184/year
2.9% year-over-year change

Northampton County income by age

In Northampton County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $98,708. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $113,622 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $63,040, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $62,530 in earnings. Overall, 91.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $63,040 8.7%
25 - 44 $98,708 6.8%
45 - 64 $113,622 0.7%
Over 65 $62,530 3.1%
Above poverty level
276,084
Below poverty level
26,453
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 276,084 91.3% 0.7%
Below poverty level 26,453 8.7% 0.5%

Employment in Northampton County

Workforce and job types in Northampton County

The job market in Northampton County is powered by 159,944 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 69.5% are employed by private companies, and 10.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
159,944
2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
123,259
Blue collar
36,685
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 123,259 77.1% 1.6%
Blue collar 36,685 22.9% 3.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
69.5%
Governmental workers
10.3%
Not for profit companies
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 11,795 7.4% 2.5%
Private companies 111,210 69.5% 1.7%
Governmental workers 16,430 10.3% 2.5%
Not for profit companies 20,509 12.8% 2.8%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
-2.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Northampton County stands at 4.6%, 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 Northampton County

How people get around in Northampton County

In Northampton County, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 80.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
-1.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 126,979 80.9% -0.2%
Taxicab 485 0.3% 54.0%
Bus or trolleybus 1,463 0.9% -3.2%
Subway or elevated 46 0% N/A
Railroad 83 0% -41.5%
Ferryboat 3 0% -25.0%
Motorcycle 77 0% 32.8%
Bicycle 353 0.2% 1.1%
Walk 3,096 2% -1.7%
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 Northampton County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
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
18032 9,555 4,083 $81,098 $95,549
18035 39 12 $0 $0
18038 3,549 1,395 $117,121 $112,658
18040 17,256 6,668 $107,016 $133,750

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FAQs about Northampton County demographics 

What is the total population of Northampton County?

Northampton County has a total population of 318,580 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Northampton County?

The gender ratio in Northampton County is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (157,820 residents)
  • 50.5% females (160,760 residents)

What is the median age in Northampton County?

The median age in Northampton County is 42.

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

The age distribution in Northampton County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (49,111 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.3% (45,570 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24% (76,327 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (82,829 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.3% (64,743 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Northampton County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Northampton County is as follows:
  • White: 74.2% (236,417 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.3% (20,188 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (635 residents)
  • Asian: 3.1% (9,781 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (155 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.9% (31,528 residents)
  • Other: 6.2% (19,876 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88% of the population in Northampton County.

How many housing units are there in Northampton County?

There are 129,448 housing units in Northampton County, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Northampton County has a total of 122,624 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Northampton County?

Northampton County has a median household income of $89,184, representing a +2.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.4% in Northampton County, with a workforce of 159,944 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.1% (123,259 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.9% (36,685 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (11,795 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.5% (111,210 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.3% (16,430 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.8% (20,509 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