State College, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
41,050
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$45,424/yr
-3.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,261
0.9% year-over-year change

State College population

How many people live in State College

State College is home to 41,050 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.9% of State College locals are male, and 47.1% are female.

Total population
41,050
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.9%
21,727
Female
47.1%
19,323
Value Percent YoY change
Male 21,727 52.9% -0.8%
Female 19,323 47.1% 2.9%
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 State College is 21, with the population distributed as follows: about 4% are children under 15, then 66.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 14.5% of the population, while another 8.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 6.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
21.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
4%
15 to 24
66.5%
25 to 44
14.5%
45 to 64
8.2%
Over 65
6.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,649 4% -7.6%
15 to 24 27,290 66.5% 2.0%
25 to 44 5,945 14.5% -2.3%
45 to 64 3,380 8.2% 3.5%
Over 65 2,786 6.8% 0.0%
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 State College, 85.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 78.5% of locals are Caucasian, 3.9% are African American and 9.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.6%
Non-citizens
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 35,145 85.6% 1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,313 5.6% 6.2%
Non-citizens 3,592 8.8% -6.5%
Racial breakdown
White
78.5%
Black or African American
3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
9.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.8%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 32,229 78.5%
Black or African American 1,610 3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 52 0.1%
Asian 3,841 9.4%
Two or more races 2,773 6.8%
Other 545 1.3%

Households in State College

A peek inside State College households

State College has 11,257 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 31.4% are families, while the remaining 68.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,257
-1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,720
Family households
3,537
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,720 68.6% -2.8%
Family households 3,537 31.4% 1.1%
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 State College

The housing landscape of State College

State College's housing consists of 13,261 units, with 25.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.4% 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 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,261
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,431 25.9%
1 unit, attached 1,114 8.4%
2 units 378 2.8%
3 or 4 units 502 3.8%
5 to 9 units 1,590 12%
10 to 19 units 1,508 11.4%
20 to 49 units 2,066 15.6%
50 or more units 2,563 19.3%
Mobile home 109 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
60
106.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in State College

In State College, the median construction year is 1971. About 12.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.7% 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 1,624 12.2% 11.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 792 6% -4.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,581 11.9% 13.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,361 17.8% 4.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,495 18.8% -6.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,908 14.4% -7.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,458 11% 1.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 353 2.7% -15.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 629 4.7% 8.3%
Built in 2020 or later 60 0.4% 106.9%
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.

State College occupancy rates

Out of the 11,257 occupied housing units in State College, 26.1% are owner-occupied, while 73.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,257
-1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,314
Owner occupied
2,943
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,314 73.9% -0.4%
Owner occupied 2,943 26.1% -4.8%
Unoccupied housing units
15.1%
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.

State College housing costs

Housing costs in State College come to a median of $1,294 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,273.

Median housing costs per month
$1,294/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 State College
$1,273/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 State College

State College education at a glance

About 22% of the population in State College went to high school, while 50.2% pursued college studies. Another 1.9% earned an associate degree and 12.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 76 0.2% -12.6%
High school diploma 8,505 22% -1.8%
College diploma 19,447 50.2% 6.5%
Associate degree 726 1.9% -21.5%
Bachelor's degree 4,855 12.5% -1.4%
Graduate degree 5,120 13.2% -5.1%
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 State College

How much people earn in State College

The average annual household income in State College was $77,075 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $45,424, reflecting a -3.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in State College
$77,075/year
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in State College
$45,424/year
-3.6% year-over-year change

State College income by age

In State College, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $58,405. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $129,306 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $19,503, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $88,242 in earnings. Overall, 61.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $19,503 -0.6%
25 - 44 $58,405 -1.9%
45 - 64 $129,306 12.3%
Over 65 $88,242 2.4%
Above poverty level
15,520
Below poverty level
9,638
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,520 61.7% -2.0%
Below poverty level 9,638 38.3% -6.3%

Average renter income in State College

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in State College, their median household income was $32,990 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 46.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$32,990
Rent-to-income ratio
46.3%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in State College

Workforce and job types in State College

The job market in State College is powered by 16,940 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 92% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.2% run their own businesses, 60.8% are employed by private companies, and 24.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,940
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
15,590
Blue collar
1,350
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 15,590 92% 1.5%
Blue collar 1,350 8% 3.2%
Employer type
Self employees
5.2%
Private companies
60.8%
Governmental workers
24.1%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 888 5.2% 15.0%
Private companies 10,302 60.8% 8.4%
Governmental workers 4,085 24.1% -6.4%
Not for profit companies 1,665 9.8% -17.8%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
14.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in State College stands at 5%, 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 State College

How people get around in State College

In State College, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 42.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 31% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
16 min
-1.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,790 42.9% -6.7%
Taxicab 120 0.8% 48.1%
Bus or trolleybus 1,008 6.4% -20.9%
Bicycle 531 3.4% 3.1%
Walk 4,902 31% 18.3%
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 State College by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
16801 40,774 16,900 $61,836 $95,067
16803 23,977 10,637 $73,532 $108,028

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FAQs about State College demographics 

What is the total population of State College?

State College has a total population of 41,050 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in State College?

The gender ratio in State College is as follows:
  • 52.9% males (21,727 residents)
  • 47.1% females (19,323 residents)

What is the median age in State College?

The median age in State College is 21.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in State College?

The age distribution in State College is as follows:
  • Under 15: 4% (1,649 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 66.5% (27,290 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 14.5% (5,945 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 8.2% (3,380 residents)
  • Over 65: 6.8% (2,786 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of State College?

The racial and ethnic makeup of State College is as follows:
  • White: 78.5% (32,229 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.9% (1,610 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (52 residents)
  • Asian: 9.4% (3,841 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.8% (2,773 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (545 residents)

What percentage of the population in State College are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.6% of the population in State College.

How many housing units are there in State College?

There are 13,261 housing units in State College, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in State College and what is the average household size?

State College has a total of 11,257 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in State College?

State College has a median household income of $45,424, representing a -3.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for State College?

The employment rate is 95% in State College, with a workforce of 16,940 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 92% (15,590 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 8% (1,350 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.2% (888 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.8% (10,302 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 24.1% (4,085 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (1,665 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