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

Total population
90,560
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,583/yr
4.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
43,395
0.0% year-over-year change

Northumberland County population

How many people live in Northumberland County

Northumberland County is home to 90,560 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51% of Northumberland County locals are male, and 49% are female.

Total population
90,560
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51%
46,147
Female
49%
44,413
Value Percent YoY change
Male 46,147 51% -0.3%
Female 44,413 49% -0.5%
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 Northumberland County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 16% are children under 15, then 10.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.1% of the population, while another 27.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
16%
15 to 24
10.5%
25 to 44
24.1%
45 to 64
27.1%
Over 65
22.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 14,466 16% -2.0%
15 to 24 9,549 10.5% 0.3%
25 to 44 21,838 24.1% 0.1%
45 to 64 24,503 27.1% -2.2%
Over 65 20,204 22.3% 2.3%
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 Northumberland County, 97.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.9% of locals are Caucasian, 2.6% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 88,009 97.2% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,881 2.1% 13.7%
Non-citizens 670 0.7% -18.4%
Racial breakdown
White
89.9%
Black or African American
2.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.5%
Other
2.5%
Value Percent
White 81,389 89.9%
Black or African American 2,372 2.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 91 0.1%
Asian 382 0.4%
Two or more races 4,099 4.5%
Other 2,227 2.5%

Households in Northumberland County

A peek inside Northumberland County households

Northumberland County has 37,886 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.5% are families, while the remaining 37.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
37,886
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
14,208
Family households
23,678
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 14,208 37.5% 0.9%
Family households 23,678 62.5% 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 Northumberland County

The housing landscape of Northumberland County

Northumberland County's housing consists of 43,395 units, with 62.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 20.4% 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 4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
43,395
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 26,965 62.1%
1 unit, attached 8,835 20.4%
2 units 1,246 2.9%
3 or 4 units 1,865 4.3%
5 to 9 units 724 1.7%
10 to 19 units 235 0.5%
20 to 49 units 602 1.4%
50 or more units 1,175 2.7%
Mobile home 1,726 4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 22 0%
Homes built since 2020
226
73.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Northumberland County

In Northumberland County, the median construction year is 1954. About 38.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 16,526 38.1% 0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,361 7.8% 11.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,080 9.4% -3.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,510 8.1% -13.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,838 13.4% -1.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,430 7.9% -4.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,911 6.7% 2.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,498 5.8% 14.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,015 2.3% 3.6%
Built in 2020 or later 226 0.5% 73.8%
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.

Northumberland County occupancy rates

Out of the 37,886 occupied housing units in Northumberland County, 75.5% are owner-occupied, while 24.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
37,886
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
9,292
Owner occupied
28,594
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 9,292 24.5% -1.7%
Owner occupied 28,594 75.5% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
12.7%
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.

Northumberland County housing costs

Housing costs in Northumberland County come to a median of $808 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $806.

Median housing costs per month
$808/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 Northumberland County
$806/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 Northumberland County

Northumberland County education at a glance

About 54.9% of the population in Northumberland County went to high school, while 15.7% pursued college studies. Another 8.5% earned an associate degree and 13% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,750 2.4% -6.1%
High school diploma 39,942 54.9% -2.2%
College diploma 11,423 15.7% 1.5%
Associate degree 6,190 8.5% 7.2%
Bachelor's degree 9,421 13% 0.5%
Graduate degree 4,015 5.5% 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 Northumberland County

How much people earn in Northumberland County

The average annual household income in Northumberland County was $78,529 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,583, reflecting a +4.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Northumberland County
$78,529/year
3.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Northumberland County
$60,583/year
4.5% year-over-year change

Northumberland County income by age

In Northumberland County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,678. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $73,005 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,768, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,530 in earnings. Overall, 87.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,768 7.2%
25 - 44 $75,678 -0.3%
45 - 64 $73,005 4.3%
Over 65 $43,530 7.3%
Above poverty level
75,274
Below poverty level
10,633
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 75,274 87.6% -0.6%
Below poverty level 10,633 12.4% 2.8%

Employment in Northumberland County

Workforce and job types in Northumberland County

The job market in Northumberland County is powered by 40,954 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.7% run their own businesses, 65.5% are employed by private companies, and 12% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
40,954
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
27,670
Blue collar
13,284
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 27,670 67.6% -0.6%
Blue collar 13,284 32.4% 0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
8.7%
Private companies
65.5%
Governmental workers
12%
Not for profit companies
13.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,546 8.7% 5.7%
Private companies 26,816 65.5% -2.8%
Governmental workers 4,919 12% -2.9%
Not for profit companies 5,673 13.8% 11.8%
Unemployment rate
3.7%
-6.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Northumberland County stands at 3.7%, 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 Northumberland County

How people get around in Northumberland County

In Northumberland County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% 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
-0.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 34,348 85.3% -2.4%
Taxicab 19 0% -42.4%
Bus or trolleybus 44 0.1% -42.9%
Railroad 19 0% -17.4%
Ferryboat 7 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 38 0.1% -26.9%
Bicycle 43 0.1% 115.0%
Walk 1,375 3.4% 5.8%
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 Northumberland County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
17772 2,693 1,109 $81,146 $92,717
17777 7,030 2,507 $67,188 $84,038
17801 16,429 7,016 $60,664 $81,409
17730 11 11 $0 $0
17749 234 88 $74,500 $90,316
17756 12,856 4,482 $77,043 $89,675
17821 18,613 8,017 $76,971 $109,612
17017 1,509 683 $82,396 $87,000
17823 1,258 458 $78,864 $88,018
17824 3,949 1,668 $118,176 $121,654

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FAQs about Northumberland County demographics 

What is the total population of Northumberland County?

Northumberland County has a total population of 90,560 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 Northumberland County?

The gender ratio in Northumberland County is as follows:
  • 51% males (46,147 residents)
  • 49% females (44,413 residents)

What is the median age in Northumberland County?

The median age in Northumberland County is 44.5.

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

The age distribution in Northumberland County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16% (14,466 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.5% (9,549 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.1% (21,838 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.1% (24,503 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.3% (20,204 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Northumberland County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Northumberland County is as follows:
  • White: 89.9% (81,389 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.6% (2,372 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (91 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (382 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.5% (4,099 residents)
  • Other: 2.5% (2,227 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.2% of the population in Northumberland County.

How many housing units are there in Northumberland County?

There are 43,395 housing units in Northumberland County, reflecting a 0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Northumberland County has a total of 37,886 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Northumberland County?

Northumberland County has a median household income of $60,583, representing a +4.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.3% in Northumberland County, with a workforce of 40,954 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.6% (27,670 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.4% (13,284 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.7% (3,546 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.5% (26,816 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12% (4,919 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.8% (5,673 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