Bristol County, RI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
50,490
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$114,490/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,615
0.3% year-over-year change

Bristol County population

How many people live in Bristol County

Bristol County is home to 50,490 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Bristol County locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
50,490
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
24,646
Female
51.2%
25,844
Value Percent YoY change
Male 24,646 48.8% 0.6%
Female 25,844 51.2% -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 Bristol County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.2% are children under 15, then 14.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22% of the population, while another 27.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.2%
15 to 24
14.8%
25 to 44
22%
45 to 64
27.9%
Over 65
21.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,149 14.2% -2.6%
15 to 24 7,477 14.8% -2.0%
25 to 44 11,111 22% 1.0%
45 to 64 14,079 27.9% -1.1%
Over 65 10,674 21.1% 3.1%
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 Bristol County, 88.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.5% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.9%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 44,779 88.7% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,508 8.9% -6.0%
Non-citizens 1,203 2.4% 15.7%
Racial breakdown
White
89.5%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 45,210 89.5%
Black or African American 572 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 20 0%
Asian 1,308 2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 8 0%
Two or more races 2,541 5%
Other 831 1.6%

Households in Bristol County

A peek inside Bristol County households

Bristol County has 20,104 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.2% are families, while the remaining 35.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
20,104
3.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,203
Family households
12,901
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,203 35.8% 7.2%
Family households 12,901 64.2% 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 Bristol County

The housing landscape of Bristol County

Bristol County's housing consists of 21,615 units, with 67.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,615
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,573 67.4%
1 unit, attached 660 3%
2 units 2,306 10.7%
3 or 4 units 1,507 7%
5 to 9 units 720 3.3%
10 to 19 units 756 3.5%
20 to 49 units 347 1.6%
50 or more units 724 3.4%
Mobile home 22 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
84
211.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Bristol County

In Bristol County, the median construction year is 1957. About 32.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.8% 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 7,021 32.5% 9.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,310 6.1% 8.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,379 15.6% -3.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,530 11.7% -7.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,131 9.9% -19.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,242 10.4% -5.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,207 5.6% 11.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,094 5.1% -1.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 617 2.8% 37.4%
Built in 2020 or later 84 0.4% 211.1%
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.

Bristol County occupancy rates

Out of the 20,104 occupied housing units in Bristol County, 71.8% are owner-occupied, while 28.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
20,104
3.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,665
Owner occupied
14,439
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,665 28.2% 9.1%
Owner occupied 14,439 71.8% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
7.0%
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.

Bristol County housing costs

Housing costs in Bristol County come to a median of $1,903 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,528.

Median housing costs per month
$1,903/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 Bristol County
$1,528/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 Bristol County

Bristol County education at a glance

About 24.9% of the population in Bristol County went to high school, while 18.9% pursued college studies. Another 6.4% earned an associate degree and 26.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 21.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 873 2.1% -9.8%
High school diploma 10,342 24.9% -2.4%
College diploma 7,865 18.9% -3.6%
Associate degree 2,637 6.4% 5.7%
Bachelor's degree 10,898 26.2% 3.4%
Graduate degree 8,902 21.4% 2.9%
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 Bristol County

How much people earn in Bristol County

The average annual household income in Bristol County was $151,035 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $114,490, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Bristol County
$151,035/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Bristol County
$114,490/year
3.2% year-over-year change

Bristol County income by age

In Bristol County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $126,740. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $139,863 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $80,972, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $76,683 in earnings. Overall, 93.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $80,972 N/A
25 - 44 $126,740 -2.0%
45 - 64 $139,863 2.9%
Over 65 $76,683 1.9%
Above poverty level
43,732
Below poverty level
3,075
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 43,732 93.4% 0.4%
Below poverty level 3,075 6.6% -3.6%

Employment in Bristol County

Workforce and job types in Bristol County

The job market in Bristol County is powered by 26,077 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 89.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 10.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.1% run their own businesses, 61.4% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
26,077
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
23,256
Blue collar
2,821
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 23,256 89.2% 0.3%
Blue collar 2,821 10.8% 1.5%
Employer type
Self employees
11.1%
Private companies
61.4%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,887 11.1% -7.7%
Private companies 16,024 61.4% 1.8%
Governmental workers 3,819 14.6% 0.0%
Not for profit companies 3,347 12.8% 2.0%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
-1.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Bristol County stands at 3%, 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 Bristol County

How people get around in Bristol County

Commuting methods vary: 76.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.8% 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 19,623 76.9% -2.9%
Bus or trolleybus 167 0.6% -6.7%
Subway or elevated 26 0.1% N/A
Railroad 246 1% 58.7%
Motorcycle 41 0.2% 7.9%
Bicycle 285 1.1% 206.4%
Walk 977 3.8% -19.9%
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 Bristol County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02809 22,220 8,731 $97,764 $130,473
02885 11,144 5,145 $90,729 $115,623
02806 17,126 6,228 $153,198 $209,116

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Bristol County demographics 

What is the total population of Bristol County?

Bristol County has a total population of 50,490 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Bristol County?

The gender ratio in Bristol County is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (24,646 residents)
  • 51.2% females (25,844 residents)

What is the median age in Bristol County?

The median age in Bristol County is 44.2.

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

The age distribution in Bristol County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.2% (7,149 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.8% (7,477 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22% (11,111 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.9% (14,079 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.1% (10,674 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Bristol County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Bristol County is as follows:
  • White: 89.5% (45,210 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (572 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (20 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (1,308 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (8 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5% (2,541 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (831 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.7% of the population in Bristol County.

How many housing units are there in Bristol County?

There are 21,615 housing units in Bristol County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Bristol County has a total of 20,104 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Bristol County?

Bristol County has a median household income of $114,490, representing a +3.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97% in Bristol County, with a workforce of 26,077 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89.2% (23,256 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 10.8% (2,821 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.1% (2,887 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.4% (16,024 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (3,819 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.8% (3,347 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