Pawtucket, RI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
75,893
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,310/yr
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
32,810
-1.6% year-over-year change

Pawtucket population

How many people live in Pawtucket

Pawtucket is home to 75,893 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.7% of Pawtucket locals are male, and 51.3% are female.

Total population
75,893
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.7%
36,951
Female
51.3%
38,942
Value Percent YoY change
Male 36,951 48.7% -1.0%
Female 38,942 51.3% 2.6%
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 Pawtucket is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.6% are children under 15, then 11% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 32.2% of the population, while another 23.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.6%
15 to 24
11%
25 to 44
32.2%
45 to 64
23.6%
Over 65
14.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 14,097 18.6% 7.4%
15 to 24 8,387 11% -3.6%
25 to 44 24,479 32.2% 3.1%
45 to 64 17,915 23.6% -5.8%
Over 65 11,015 14.5% 3.0%
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 Pawtucket, 70.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 20.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 50.3% of locals are Caucasian, 12.4% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 12.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 22.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
70.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
20.3%
Non-citizens
9.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 53,326 70.3% -1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 15,429 20.3% 1.6%
Non-citizens 7,138 9.4% 17.4%
Racial breakdown
White
50.3%
Black or African American
12.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
22.8%
Other
12.1%
Value Percent
White 38,192 50.3%
Black or African American 9,410 12.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 534 0.7%
Asian 1,080 1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 175 0.2%
Two or more races 17,312 22.8%
Other 9,190 12.1%

Households in Pawtucket

A peek inside Pawtucket households

Pawtucket has 30,598 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.7% are families, while the remaining 40.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
30,598
-1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
12,333
Family households
18,265
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 12,333 40.3% -2.0%
Family households 18,265 59.7% -1.0%
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 Pawtucket

The housing landscape of Pawtucket

Pawtucket's housing consists of 32,810 units, with 33.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.3% 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 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
32,810
-1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,129 33.9%
1 unit, attached 1,071 3.3%
2 units 5,604 17.1%
3 or 4 units 7,708 23.5%
5 to 9 units 2,332 7.1%
10 to 19 units 1,379 4.2%
20 to 49 units 724 2.2%
50 or more units 2,591 7.9%
Mobile home 272 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
149
63.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pawtucket

In Pawtucket, the median construction year is 1947. About 42.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.7% 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 14,042 42.8% -1.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,485 10.6% 1.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,655 11.1% -15.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,331 10.2% -1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,873 8.8% 3.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,708 5.2% -9.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,681 5.1% 20.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,317 4% 4.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 569 1.7% 5.4%
Built in 2020 or later 149 0.4% 63.7%
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.

Pawtucket occupancy rates

Out of the 30,598 occupied housing units in Pawtucket, 50.1% are owner-occupied, while 49.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
30,598
-1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
15,271
Owner occupied
15,327
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 15,271 49.9% -3.8%
Owner occupied 15,327 50.1% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
6.7%
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.

Pawtucket housing costs

Housing costs in Pawtucket come to a median of $1,361 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,208.

Median housing costs per month
$1,361/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 Pawtucket
$1,208/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 Pawtucket

Pawtucket education at a glance

About 41.9% of the population in Pawtucket went to high school, while 19.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.9% earned an associate degree and 14.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 5,058 8.6% 0.9%
High school diploma 24,663 41.9% 1.0%
College diploma 11,729 19.9% 0.8%
Associate degree 4,653 7.9% -4.3%
Bachelor's degree 8,636 14.7% -2.5%
Graduate degree 4,152 7% -9.1%
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 Pawtucket

How much people earn in Pawtucket

The average annual household income in Pawtucket was $85,335 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 $68,310, reflecting a +1.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pawtucket
$85,335/year
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pawtucket
$68,310/year
1.3% year-over-year change

Pawtucket income by age

In Pawtucket, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $78,449. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $88,622 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,077, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $36,202 in earnings. Overall, 86.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,077 -4.4%
25 - 44 $78,449 -1.1%
45 - 64 $88,622 3.4%
Over 65 $36,202 5.4%
Above poverty level
64,703
Below poverty level
9,917
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 64,703 86.7% 1.4%
Below poverty level 9,917 13.3% -2.5%

Average renter income in Pawtucket

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Pawtucket, their median household income was $43,470 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$43,470
Rent-to-income ratio
33.3%
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 Pawtucket

Workforce and job types in Pawtucket

The job market in Pawtucket is powered by 39,457 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 68.6% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
39,457
-1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
29,436
Blue collar
10,021
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 29,436 74.6% -2.4%
Blue collar 10,021 25.4% 2.7%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
68.6%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
13.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,674 6.8% 20.1%
Private companies 27,078 68.6% -2.5%
Governmental workers 4,550 11.5% -3.2%
Not for profit companies 5,155 13.1% -1.2%
Unemployment rate
7.3%
2.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Pawtucket stands at 7.3%, 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 Pawtucket

How people get around in Pawtucket

In Pawtucket, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
-0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 31,734 83.2% -2.1%
Taxicab 77 0.2% 185.2%
Bus or trolleybus 1,081 2.8% -5.4%
Subway or elevated 15 0% N/A
Railroad 152 0.4% -54.4%
Motorcycle 45 0.1% -27.4%
Bicycle 114 0.3% -6.6%
Walk 615 1.6% -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 Pawtucket by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02860 47,818 19,575 $61,539 $79,554
02861 28,124 11,065 $83,411 $95,365

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FAQs about Pawtucket demographics 

What is the total population of Pawtucket?

Pawtucket has a total population of 75,893 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Pawtucket?

The gender ratio in Pawtucket is as follows:
  • 48.7% males (36,951 residents)
  • 51.3% females (38,942 residents)

What is the median age in Pawtucket?

The median age in Pawtucket is 37.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Pawtucket?

The age distribution in Pawtucket is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.6% (14,097 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11% (8,387 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 32.2% (24,479 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.6% (17,915 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.5% (11,015 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pawtucket?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pawtucket is as follows:
  • White: 50.3% (38,192 residents)
  • Black or African American: 12.4% (9,410 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (534 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (1,080 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (175 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 22.8% (17,312 residents)
  • Other: 12.1% (9,190 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 70.3% of the population in Pawtucket.

How many housing units are there in Pawtucket?

There are 32,810 housing units in Pawtucket, reflecting a -1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Pawtucket has a total of 30,598 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pawtucket?

Pawtucket has a median household income of $68,310, representing a +1.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Pawtucket?

The employment rate is 92.7% in Pawtucket, with a workforce of 39,457 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.6% (29,436 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.4% (10,021 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (2,674 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.6% (27,078 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (4,550 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.1% (5,155 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