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

Total population
16,188
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,020/yr
-1.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,397
0.2% year-over-year change

Potter County population

How many people live in Potter County

Potter County is home to 16,188 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Potter County locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
16,188
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
8,121
Female
49.8%
8,067
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,121 50.2% -0.3%
Female 8,067 49.8% -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 Potter County is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.1% are children under 15, then 10.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.2% of the population, while another 27.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
48.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.1%
15 to 24
10.4%
25 to 44
20.2%
45 to 64
27.4%
Over 65
25.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,607 16.1% -2.1%
15 to 24 1,677 10.4% -0.8%
25 to 44 3,269 20.2% -0.7%
45 to 64 4,439 27.4% -1.7%
Over 65 4,196 25.9% 2.0%
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 Potter County, 98% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 3.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,873 98% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 220 1.4% -8.7%
Non-citizens 95 0.6% 18.8%
Racial breakdown
White
95.2%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
3.2%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 15,410 95.2%
Black or African American 72 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 12 0.1%
Asian 63 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 12 0.1%
Two or more races 517 3.2%
Other 102 0.6%

Households in Potter County

A peek inside Potter County households

Potter County has 6,992 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.6% are families, while the remaining 35.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,992
3.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,472
Family households
4,520
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,472 35.4% 6.4%
Family households 4,520 64.6% 2.0%
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 Potter County

The housing landscape of Potter County

Potter County's housing consists of 12,397 units, with 80.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.5% 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 13.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,397
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,017 80.8%
1 unit, attached 58 0.5%
2 units 311 2.5%
3 or 4 units 118 1%
5 to 9 units 71 0.6%
10 to 19 units 44 0.4%
20 to 49 units 97 0.8%
Mobile home 1,663 13.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 18 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
53
76.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Potter County

In Potter County, the median construction year is 1969. About 24.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,069 24.8% -1.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 705 5.7% 5.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,251 10.1% 4.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,319 10.6% -2.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,966 15.9% -1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,451 11.7% -0.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,175 9.5% -4.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 960 7.7% 4.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 448 3.6% 8.5%
Built in 2020 or later 53 0.4% 76.7%
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.

Potter County occupancy rates

Out of the 6,992 occupied housing units in Potter County, 79.7% are owner-occupied, while 20.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 43.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,992
3.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,421
Owner occupied
5,571
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,421 20.3% 6.4%
Owner occupied 5,571 79.7% 2.8%
Unoccupied housing units
43.6%
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.

Potter County housing costs

Housing costs in Potter County come to a median of $747 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $809.

Median housing costs per month
$747/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 Potter County
$809/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 Potter County

Potter County education at a glance

About 53.2% of the population in Potter County went to high school, while 17.1% pursued college studies. Another 9.5% earned an associate degree and 11.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 384 3% -5.9%
High school diploma 6,885 53.2% 0.3%
College diploma 2,217 17.1% -4.9%
Associate degree 1,235 9.5% -2.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,445 11.2% 8.1%
Graduate degree 785 6.1% 1.6%
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 Potter County

How much people earn in Potter County

The average annual household income in Potter County was $75,370 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,020, reflecting a -1.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Potter County
$75,370/year
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Potter County
$59,020/year
-1.4% year-over-year change

Potter County income by age

In Potter County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $82,000. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,208 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,280, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,534 in earnings. Overall, 87.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,280 0.5%
25 - 44 $82,000 8.1%
45 - 64 $70,208 1.2%
Over 65 $44,534 -0.9%
Above poverty level
13,761
Below poverty level
2,041
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,761 87.1% -2.0%
Below poverty level 2,041 12.9% 10.6%

Employment in Potter County

Workforce and job types in Potter County

The job market in Potter County is powered by 7,020 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.2% run their own businesses, 63.7% are employed by private companies, and 14.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,020
0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
4,704
Blue collar
2,316
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,704 67% 1.1%
Blue collar 2,316 33% -1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
12.2%
Private companies
63.7%
Governmental workers
14.8%
Not for profit companies
9.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 853 12.2% -3.8%
Private companies 4,470 63.7% 1.3%
Governmental workers 1,040 14.8% -0.4%
Not for profit companies 657 9.4% 0.6%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-14.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Potter County stands at 3.8%, 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 Potter County

How people get around in Potter County

Commuting methods vary: 82.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,639 82.4% -0.1%
Bus or trolleybus 8 0.1% -27.3%
Bicycle 6 0.1% 0.0%
Walk 420 6.1% -7.9%
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 Potter County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
16743 4,061 1,642 $54,083 $73,350
16746 1,046 525 $51,125 $69,828
16748 2,908 1,181 $61,250 $71,687
16720 1,261 559 $49,479 $72,155
16922 1,575 767 $67,063 $73,232
16923 1,457 604 $73,864 $74,572
16927 614 260 $60,625 $70,385
16937 167 69 $57,917 $59,199
16941 94 34 $0 $90,959
16915 5,600 2,359 $61,781 $82,930

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FAQs about Potter County demographics 

What is the total population of Potter County?

Potter County has a total population of 16,188 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 Potter County?

The gender ratio in Potter County is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (8,121 residents)
  • 49.8% females (8,067 residents)

What is the median age in Potter County?

The median age in Potter County is 48.4.

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

The age distribution in Potter County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.1% (2,607 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.4% (1,677 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.2% (3,269 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.4% (4,439 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.9% (4,196 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Potter County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Potter County is as follows:
  • White: 95.2% (15,410 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (72 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (12 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (63 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (12 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.2% (517 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (102 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98% of the population in Potter County.

How many housing units are there in Potter County?

There are 12,397 housing units in Potter County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Potter County has a total of 6,992 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Potter County?

Potter County has a median household income of $59,020, representing a -1.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Potter County, with a workforce of 7,020 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67% (4,704 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33% (2,316 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.2% (853 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.7% (4,470 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.8% (1,040 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.4% (657 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