Southwest Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
76,250
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$43,244/yr
-9.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
37,276
2.9% year-over-year change

Southwest Philadelphia population

How many people live in Southwest Philadelphia

Southwest Philadelphia is home to 76,250 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.3% of Southwest Philadelphia locals are male, and 54.7% are female.

Total population
76,250
-1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.3%
34,554
Female
54.7%
41,696
Value Percent YoY change
Male 34,554 45.3% -0.1%
Female 41,696 54.7% -2.0%
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 Southwest Philadelphia is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 20% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 33.2% of the population, while another 22.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
20%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
33.2%
45 to 64
22.5%
Over 65
12.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 15,247 20% -3.1%
15 to 24 9,236 12.1% -7.0%
25 to 44 25,299 33.2% 3.4%
45 to 64 17,175 22.5% -2.4%
Over 65 9,293 12.2% -0.9%
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 Southwest Philadelphia, 82.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 10.3% of locals are Caucasian, 75.4% are African American and 4.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.7%
Non-citizens
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 62,583 82.1% -1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 8,163 10.7% 6.9%
Non-citizens 5,504 7.2% -5.2%
Racial breakdown
White
10.3%
Black or African American
75.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
4.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.3%
Other
3%
Value Percent
White 7,870 10.3%
Black or African American 57,531 75.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 221 0.3%
Asian 3,543 4.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2 0%
Two or more races 4,826 6.3%
Other 2,257 3%

Households in Southwest Philadelphia

A peek inside Southwest Philadelphia households

Southwest Philadelphia has 33,688 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.3% are families, while the remaining 48.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
33,688
4.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
16,401
Family households
17,287
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 16,401 48.7% 9.0%
Family households 17,287 51.3% -0.4%
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 Southwest Philadelphia

The housing landscape of Southwest Philadelphia

Southwest Philadelphia's housing consists of 37,276 units, with 5.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 68.4% 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 0.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
37,276
2.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,044 5.5%
1 unit, attached 25,500 68.4%
2 units 3,913 10.5%
3 or 4 units 2,149 5.8%
5 to 9 units 849 2.3%
10 to 19 units 527 1.4%
20 to 49 units 719 1.9%
50 or more units 1,227 3.3%
Mobile home 349 0.9%
Homes built since 2020
57
50.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Southwest Philadelphia

In Southwest Philadelphia, the median construction year is 1938. About 52.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 13.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.1% 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 19,622 52.6% 7.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,927 13.2% 5.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,542 9.5% -19.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,452 9.3% -4.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,368 6.4% 1.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,234 3.3% 4.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 532 1.4% -10.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 747 2% 55.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 796 2.1% 33.1%
Built in 2020 or later 57 0.2% 50.0%
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.

Southwest Philadelphia occupancy rates

Out of the 33,688 occupied housing units in Southwest Philadelphia, 47.4% are owner-occupied, while 52.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
33,688
4.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
17,738
Owner occupied
15,951
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 17,738 52.6% 9.2%
Owner occupied 15,951 47.4% -1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
9.6%
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.

Southwest Philadelphia housing costs

Housing costs in Southwest Philadelphia come to a median of $1,269 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,389.

Median housing costs per month
$1,269/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 Southwest Philadelphia
$1,389/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 Southwest Philadelphia

Southwest Philadelphia education at a glance

About 45.4% of the population in Southwest Philadelphia went to high school, while 20.3% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 13.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,566 4.4% 16.5%
High school diploma 26,352 45.4% 1.1%
College diploma 11,773 20.3% -5.5%
Associate degree 4,470 7.7% 4.6%
Bachelor's degree 7,846 13.5% -3.0%
Graduate degree 4,976 8.6% -1.4%
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 Southwest Philadelphia

How much people earn in Southwest Philadelphia

The average annual household income in Southwest Philadelphia was $50,905 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $43,244, reflecting a -9.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Southwest Philadelphia
$50,905/year
7.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Southwest Philadelphia
$43,244/year
-9.8% year-over-year change

Southwest Philadelphia income by age

In Southwest Philadelphia, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $46,746. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $50,619 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $24,804, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $31,787 in earnings. Overall, 75.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $24,804 -21.2%
25 - 44 $46,746 -17.6%
45 - 64 $50,619 18.5%
Over 65 $31,787 6.2%
Above poverty level
56,578
Below poverty level
18,350
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 56,578 75.5% 0.1%
Below poverty level 18,350 24.5% -4.8%

Employment in Southwest Philadelphia

Workforce and job types in Southwest Philadelphia

81% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.8% run their own businesses, 61.9% are employed by private companies, and 13.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
27,544
Blue collar
6,465
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 27,544 81% -0.3%
Blue collar 6,465 19% -2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
5.8%
Private companies
61.9%
Governmental workers
13.3%
Not for profit companies
19%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,990 5.8% 4.6%
Private companies 21,041 61.9% 1.8%
Governmental workers 4,529 13.3% -0.9%
Not for profit companies 6,449 19% -9.3%

Transportation in Southwest Philadelphia

How people get around in Southwest Philadelphia

In Southwest Philadelphia, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 71.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
-64.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 18,955 71.6% 5.2%
Taxicab 158 0.6% 69.9%
Bus or trolleybus 5,872 22.2% -1.6%
Railroad 141 0.5% -53.3%
Motorcycle 34 0.1% 88.9%
Bicycle 466 1.8% -23.5%
Walk 867 3.3% -26.3%
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 Southwest Philadelphia by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
19142 28,829 12,033 $38,376 $50,909
19143 62,572 28,654 $43,244 $71,396
19153 13,018 5,896 $55,213 $69,001

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FAQs about Southwest Philadelphia demographics 

What is the total population of Southwest Philadelphia?

Southwest Philadelphia has a total population of 76,250 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 -1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Southwest Philadelphia?

The gender ratio in Southwest Philadelphia is as follows:
  • 45.3% males (34,554 residents)
  • 54.7% females (41,696 residents)

What is the median age in Southwest Philadelphia?

The median age in Southwest Philadelphia is 33.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Southwest Philadelphia?

The age distribution in Southwest Philadelphia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20% (15,247 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (9,236 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 33.2% (25,299 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.5% (17,175 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.2% (9,293 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Southwest Philadelphia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Southwest Philadelphia is as follows:
  • White: 10.3% (7,870 residents)
  • Black or African American: 75.4% (57,531 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (221 residents)
  • Asian: 4.6% (3,543 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (2 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.3% (4,826 residents)
  • Other: 3% (2,257 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.1% of the population in Southwest Philadelphia.

How many housing units are there in Southwest Philadelphia?

There are 37,276 housing units in Southwest Philadelphia, reflecting a +2.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Southwest Philadelphia has a total of 33,688 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Southwest Philadelphia?

Southwest Philadelphia has a median household income of $43,244, representing a -9.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Southwest Philadelphia?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81% (27,544 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19% (6,465 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.8% (1,990 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.9% (21,041 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.3% (4,529 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 19% (6,449 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