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

Total population
81,350
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$34,524/yr
6.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
37,510
1.0% year-over-year change

Upper North Philadelphia population

How many people live in Upper North Philadelphia

Upper North Philadelphia is home to 81,350 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.2% of Upper North Philadelphia locals are male, and 53.8% are female.

Total population
81,350
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.2%
37,607
Female
53.8%
43,743
Value Percent YoY change
Male 37,607 46.2% -2.6%
Female 43,743 53.8% 1.4%
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 Upper North Philadelphia is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.2% are children under 15, then 12.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.6% of the population, while another 24.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
38
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.2%
15 to 24
12.9%
25 to 44
25.6%
45 to 64
24.9%
Over 65
16.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 16,455 20.2% -3.1%
15 to 24 10,505 12.9% 3.1%
25 to 44 20,799 25.6% -0.8%
45 to 64 20,240 24.9% -3.0%
Over 65 13,351 16.4% 4.6%
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 Upper North Philadelphia, 81.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 13.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 9.3% of locals are Caucasian, 55.3% are African American and 1.8% have Asian roots. Another 1.2% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 19.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
13.6%
Non-citizens
4.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 66,596 81.9% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 11,029 13.6% 1.5%
Non-citizens 3,725 4.6% -5.1%
Racial breakdown
White
9.3%
Black or African American
55.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
12.4%
Other
19.8%
Value Percent
White 7,553 9.3%
Black or African American 45,018 55.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 964 1.2%
Asian 1,428 1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 179 0.2%
Two or more races 10,113 12.4%
Other 16,095 19.8%

Households in Upper North Philadelphia

A peek inside Upper North Philadelphia households

Upper North Philadelphia has 32,943 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.5% are families, while the remaining 43.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
32,943
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
14,325
Family households
18,618
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 14,325 43.5% 5.9%
Family households 18,618 56.5% -0.9%
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 Upper North Philadelphia

The housing landscape of Upper North Philadelphia

Upper North Philadelphia's housing consists of 37,510 units, with 9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 71% 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 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
37,510
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,389 9%
1 unit, attached 26,617 71%
2 units 1,998 5.3%
3 or 4 units 1,730 4.6%
5 to 9 units 746 2%
10 to 19 units 517 1.4%
20 to 49 units 691 1.8%
50 or more units 1,534 4.1%
Mobile home 288 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
185
46.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Upper North Philadelphia

In Upper North Philadelphia, the median construction year is 1938. About 55.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 13% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.6% 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 20,853 55.6% -0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,873 13% -0.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,561 9.5% 7.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,159 5.8% 8.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,524 6.7% 8.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 841 2.2% -12.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 759 2% -11.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 795 2.1% 8.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 960 2.6% -2.3%
Built in 2020 or later 185 0.5% 46.8%
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.

Upper North Philadelphia occupancy rates

Out of the 32,943 occupied housing units in Upper North Philadelphia, 51.7% are owner-occupied, while 48.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
32,943
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
15,901
Owner occupied
17,041
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 15,901 48.3% 2.1%
Owner occupied 17,041 51.7% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
12.2%
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.

Upper North Philadelphia housing costs

Housing costs in Upper North Philadelphia come to a median of $782 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,134.

Median housing costs per month
$782/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 Upper North Philadelphia
$1,134/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 Upper North Philadelphia

Upper North Philadelphia education at a glance

About 54.9% of the population in Upper North Philadelphia went to high school, while 18.6% pursued college studies. Another 6.3% earned an associate degree and 8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,821 7.8% -3.0%
High school diploma 33,874 54.9% -1.7%
College diploma 11,456 18.6% 4.2%
Associate degree 3,868 6.3% -2.0%
Bachelor's degree 4,929 8% 1.6%
Graduate degree 2,782 4.5% 4.9%
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 Upper North Philadelphia

How much people earn in Upper North Philadelphia

The average annual household income in Upper North Philadelphia was $57,372 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $34,524, reflecting a +6.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Upper North Philadelphia
$57,372/year
4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Upper North Philadelphia
$34,524/year
6.4% year-over-year change

Upper North Philadelphia income by age

In Upper 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 $41,783. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $37,125 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $80,885, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $25,700 in earnings. Overall, 63.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $80,885 81.9%
25 - 44 $41,783 0.3%
45 - 64 $37,125 15.8%
Over 65 $25,700 -1.8%
Above poverty level
50,339
Below poverty level
28,632
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 50,339 63.7% 3.9%
Below poverty level 28,632 36.3% -7.6%

Employment in Upper North Philadelphia

Workforce and job types in Upper North Philadelphia

76% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.6% run their own businesses, 64.8% are employed by private companies, and 12.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
21,152
Blue collar
6,680
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,152 76% -0.7%
Blue collar 6,680 24% 9.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.6%
Private companies
64.8%
Governmental workers
12.7%
Not for profit companies
13.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,404 8.6% 13.9%
Private companies 18,041 64.8% -0.4%
Governmental workers 3,526 12.7% 6.9%
Not for profit companies 3,860 13.9% -0.8%

Transportation in Upper North Philadelphia

How people get around in Upper North Philadelphia

In Upper North Philadelphia, the average commute time is 12 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 63.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
12 min
-55.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,890 63.1% 8.2%
Taxicab 463 2.3% 13.2%
Bus or trolleybus 5,130 25.1% -7.2%
Railroad 228 1.1% -17.1%
Motorcycle 51 0.2% -7.3%
Bicycle 176 0.9% -25.1%
Walk 1,479 7.2% -5.1%
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 Upper North Philadelphia by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
19129 11,937 5,924 $80,606 $116,874
19132 33,006 14,473 $32,823 $54,144
19133 24,864 10,001 $31,034 $48,412
19140 53,385 20,589 $36,226 $54,203

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FAQs about Upper North Philadelphia demographics 

What is the total population of Upper North Philadelphia?

Upper North Philadelphia has a total population of 81,350 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Upper North Philadelphia?

The gender ratio in Upper North Philadelphia is as follows:
  • 46.2% males (37,607 residents)
  • 53.8% females (43,743 residents)

What is the median age in Upper North Philadelphia?

The median age in Upper North Philadelphia is 38.

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

The age distribution in Upper North Philadelphia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.2% (16,455 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.9% (10,505 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.6% (20,799 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.9% (20,240 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.4% (13,351 residents)

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

The racial and ethnic makeup of Upper North Philadelphia is as follows:
  • White: 9.3% (7,553 residents)
  • Black or African American: 55.3% (45,018 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (964 residents)
  • Asian: 1.8% (1,428 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (179 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.4% (10,113 residents)
  • Other: 19.8% (16,095 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.9% of the population in Upper North Philadelphia.

How many housing units are there in Upper North Philadelphia?

There are 37,510 housing units in Upper North Philadelphia, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Upper North Philadelphia has a total of 32,943 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Upper North Philadelphia?

Upper North Philadelphia has a median household income of $34,524, representing a +6.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Upper North Philadelphia?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76% (21,152 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24% (6,680 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.6% (2,404 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.8% (18,041 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.7% (3,526 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.9% (3,860 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