Lower North Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
116,147
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,096/yr
8.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
60,457
3.7% year-over-year change

Lower North Philadelphia population

How many people live in Lower North Philadelphia

Lower North Philadelphia is home to 116,147 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.6% of Lower North Philadelphia locals are male, and 53.4% are female.

Total population
116,147
1.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.6%
54,160
Female
53.4%
61,986
Value Percent YoY change
Male 54,160 46.6% 1.3%
Female 61,986 53.4% 2.4%
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 Lower North Philadelphia is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.6% are children under 15, then 18.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 36.6% of the population, while another 17.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
33
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.6%
15 to 24
18.4%
25 to 44
36.6%
45 to 64
17.7%
Over 65
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 18,175 15.6% 4.9%
15 to 24 21,346 18.4% -0.7%
25 to 44 42,561 36.6% 4.2%
45 to 64 20,563 17.7% -2.3%
Over 65 13,502 11.6% 1.5%
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 Lower North Philadelphia, 88% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 33.2% of locals are Caucasian, 47.2% are African American and 6.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.1%
Non-citizens
4.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 102,208 88% 1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 8,221 7.1% 4.3%
Non-citizens 5,718 4.9% -1.2%
Racial breakdown
White
33.2%
Black or African American
47.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
6.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.3%
Other
5.5%
Value Percent
White 38,590 33.2%
Black or African American 54,762 47.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 827 0.7%
Asian 7,094 6.1%
Two or more races 8,508 7.3%
Other 6,366 5.5%

Households in Lower North Philadelphia

A peek inside Lower North Philadelphia households

Lower North Philadelphia has 53,322 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 41.2% are families, while the remaining 58.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
53,322
4.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
31,341
Family households
21,980
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 31,341 58.8% 7.4%
Family households 21,980 41.2% 1.6%
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 Lower North Philadelphia

The housing landscape of Lower North Philadelphia

Lower North Philadelphia's housing consists of 60,457 units, with 5.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 47.7% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
60,457
3.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,139 5.2%
1 unit, attached 28,853 47.7%
2 units 4,742 7.8%
3 or 4 units 6,393 10.6%
5 to 9 units 2,717 4.5%
10 to 19 units 1,721 2.8%
20 to 49 units 3,056 5%
50 or more units 9,603 15.9%
Mobile home 231 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
2,455
101.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lower North Philadelphia

In Lower North Philadelphia, the median construction year is 1959. About 37.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 22,719 37.6% 1.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,402 7.3% -5.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,534 7.5% 5.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,656 6% -10.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,760 6.2% -5.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,675 4.4% 7.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,512 4.2% -3.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,929 8.2% 14.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8,814 14.6% 5.7%
Built in 2020 or later 2,455 4.1% 101.6%
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.

Lower North Philadelphia occupancy rates

Out of the 53,322 occupied housing units in Lower North Philadelphia, 36.6% are owner-occupied, while 63.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
53,322
4.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
33,831
Owner occupied
19,490
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 33,831 63.4% 7.1%
Owner occupied 19,490 36.6% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
11.8%
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.

Lower North Philadelphia housing costs

Housing costs in Lower North Philadelphia come to a median of $1,347 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,329.

Median housing costs per month
$1,347/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 Lower North Philadelphia
$1,329/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 Lower North Philadelphia

Lower North Philadelphia education at a glance

About 32.2% of the population in Lower North Philadelphia went to high school, while 19.9% pursued college studies. Another 5% earned an associate degree and 22.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,682 2.8% 3.1%
High school diploma 30,291 32.2% -5.1%
College diploma 18,749 19.9% 2.2%
Associate degree 4,687 5% 11.2%
Bachelor's degree 21,229 22.5% 3.6%
Graduate degree 16,577 17.6% 8.1%
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 Lower North Philadelphia

How much people earn in Lower North Philadelphia

The average annual household income in Lower North Philadelphia was $85,092 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,096, reflecting a +8.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lower North Philadelphia
$85,092/year
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lower North Philadelphia
$51,096/year
8.7% year-over-year change

Lower North Philadelphia income by age

In Lower North Philadelphia, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,784. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,940 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,664, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $26,037 in earnings. Overall, 71.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,664 11.1%
25 - 44 $71,784 4.1%
45 - 64 $51,940 11.2%
Over 65 $26,037 13.4%
Above poverty level
78,293
Below poverty level
31,890
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 78,293 71.1% 2.6%
Below poverty level 31,890 28.9% 0.4%

Employment in Lower North Philadelphia

Workforce and job types in Lower North Philadelphia

89.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 10.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.7% run their own businesses, 63.9% are employed by private companies, and 11.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
51,281
Blue collar
6,161
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 51,281 89.3% 2.9%
Blue collar 6,161 10.7% 2.7%
Employer type
Self employees
6.7%
Private companies
63.9%
Governmental workers
11.9%
Not for profit companies
17.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,845 6.7% -2.9%
Private companies 36,697 63.9% 4.0%
Governmental workers 6,819 11.9% -2.3%
Not for profit companies 10,081 17.6% 5.1%

Transportation in Lower North Philadelphia

How people get around in Lower North Philadelphia

In Lower North Philadelphia, the average commute time is 69 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 58.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 14.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
69 min
-15.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 22,822 58.6% 4.4%
Taxicab 459 1.2% 44.8%
Bus or trolleybus 7,446 19.1% -15.1%
Railroad 357 0.9% -5.6%
Motorcycle 27 0.1% -52.6%
Bicycle 2,023 5.2% 21.0%
Walk 5,791 14.9% -3.6%
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 Lower North Philadelphia by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
19121 41,574 18,045 $38,516 $65,230
19122 25,439 9,647 $63,676 $94,079
19123 19,681 10,378 $102,106 $131,813
19130 30,116 16,600 $112,037 $146,790
19132 33,006 14,473 $32,823 $54,144
19133 24,864 10,001 $31,034 $48,412

Explore more communities

FAQs about Lower North Philadelphia demographics 

What is the total population of Lower North Philadelphia?

Lower North Philadelphia has a total population of 116,147 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 +1.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lower North Philadelphia?

The gender ratio in Lower North Philadelphia is as follows:
  • 46.6% males (54,160 residents)
  • 53.4% females (61,986 residents)

What is the median age in Lower North Philadelphia?

The median age in Lower North Philadelphia is 33.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lower North Philadelphia?

The age distribution in Lower North Philadelphia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.6% (18,175 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.4% (21,346 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 36.6% (42,561 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.7% (20,563 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.6% (13,502 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lower North Philadelphia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lower North Philadelphia is as follows:
  • White: 33.2% (38,590 residents)
  • Black or African American: 47.2% (54,762 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (827 residents)
  • Asian: 6.1% (7,094 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.3% (8,508 residents)
  • Other: 5.5% (6,366 residents)

What percentage of the population in Lower North Philadelphia are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 88% of the population in Lower North Philadelphia.

How many housing units are there in Lower North Philadelphia?

There are 60,457 housing units in Lower North Philadelphia, reflecting a +3.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Lower North Philadelphia and what is the average household size?

Lower North Philadelphia has a total of 53,322 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lower North Philadelphia?

Lower North Philadelphia has a median household income of $51,096, representing a +8.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Lower North Philadelphia?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89.3% (51,281 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 10.7% (6,161 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.7% (3,845 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.9% (36,697 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.9% (6,819 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 17.6% (10,081 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