Westerly, RI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,411
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$95,207/yr
15.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,028
-2.9% year-over-year change

Westerly population

How many people live in Westerly

Westerly is home to 18,411 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.7% of Westerly locals are male, and 48.3% are female.

Total population
18,411
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.7%
9,519
Female
48.3%
8,892
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,519 51.7% 0.3%
Female 8,892 48.3% -1.6%
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 Westerly is 50, with the population distributed as follows: about 10.7% are children under 15, then 12.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.8% of the population, while another 30.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
50.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
10.7%
15 to 24
12.7%
25 to 44
20.8%
45 to 64
30.7%
Over 65
25.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,965 10.7% 20.8%
15 to 24 2,342 12.7% -0.2%
25 to 44 3,824 20.8% 9.1%
45 to 64 5,647 30.7% -4.0%
Over 65 4,633 25.2% -10.3%
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 Westerly, 93% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.7% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 3.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.5%
Non-citizens
2.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,118 93% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 828 4.5% -5.2%
Non-citizens 465 2.5% 20.5%
Racial breakdown
White
88.7%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
3.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 16,327 88.7%
Black or African American 117 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3 0%
Asian 590 3.2%
Two or more races 929 5%
Other 445 2.4%

Households in Westerly

A peek inside Westerly households

Westerly has 8,282 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.9% are families, while the remaining 37.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,282
-3.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,072
Family households
5,210
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,072 37.1% -8.9%
Family households 5,210 62.9% 0.8%
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 Westerly

The housing landscape of Westerly

Westerly's housing consists of 9,028 units, with 60.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.4% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,028
-2.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,422 60.1%
1 unit, attached 402 4.4%
2 units 1,179 13.1%
3 or 4 units 826 9.2%
5 to 9 units 341 3.8%
10 to 19 units 343 3.8%
20 to 49 units 208 2.3%
50 or more units 286 3.2%
Mobile home 21 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
114
93.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Westerly

In Westerly, the median construction year is 1972. About 24% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,164 24% -8.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 410 4.5% 46.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 741 8.2% -22.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 997 11% 13.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,005 11.1% -1.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,503 16.6% -8.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 742 8.2% -12.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 833 9.2% -1.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 519 5.8% 23.9%
Built in 2020 or later 114 1.3% 93.2%
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.

Westerly occupancy rates

Out of the 8,282 occupied housing units in Westerly, 71.4% are owner-occupied, while 28.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,282
-3.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,370
Owner occupied
5,912
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,370 28.6% -1.0%
Owner occupied 5,912 71.4% -3.8%
Unoccupied housing units
8.3%
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.

Westerly housing costs

Housing costs in Westerly come to a median of $1,479 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,260.

Median housing costs per month
$1,479/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 Westerly
$1,260/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 Westerly

Westerly education at a glance

About 31.4% of the population in Westerly went to high school, while 17.2% pursued college studies. Another 8.2% earned an associate degree and 24.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 243 1.5% 1.2%
High school diploma 4,957 31.4% -14.5%
College diploma 2,713 17.2% -12.8%
Associate degree 1,290 8.2% 4.5%
Bachelor's degree 3,834 24.3% 10.5%
Graduate degree 2,727 17.3% 11.9%
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 Westerly

How much people earn in Westerly

The average annual household income in Westerly was $117,268 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +15.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $95,207, reflecting a +15.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Westerly
$117,268/year
15.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Westerly
$95,207/year
15.6% year-over-year change

Westerly income by age

In Westerly, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $96,134. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $110,788 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $82,571, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $71,662 in earnings. Overall, 94.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $82,571 2.8%
25 - 44 $96,134 16.7%
45 - 64 $110,788 1.6%
Over 65 $71,662 5.4%
Above poverty level
17,064
Below poverty level
1,039
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,064 94.3% -0.7%
Below poverty level 1,039 5.7% -4.8%

Average renter income in Westerly

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Westerly, their median household income was $57,431 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 26.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$57,431
Rent-to-income ratio
26.3%
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 Westerly

Workforce and job types in Westerly

The job market in Westerly is powered by 9,810 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.7% run their own businesses, 66.9% are employed by private companies, and 15.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,810
1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
8,248
Blue collar
1,562
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,248 84.1% 2.4%
Blue collar 1,562 15.9% -2.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7.7%
Private companies
66.9%
Governmental workers
15.6%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 758 7.7% -19.7%
Private companies 6,563 66.9% 0.6%
Governmental workers 1,527 15.6% 4.0%
Not for profit companies 962 9.8% 35.1%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
-32.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Westerly 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 Westerly

How people get around in Westerly

Commuting methods vary: 86.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% 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 8,421 86.2% -0.7%
Taxicab 29 0.3% -3.3%
Bus or trolleybus 1 0% 0.0%
Subway or elevated 31 0.3% N/A
Railroad 27 0.3% -34.1%
Motorcycle 41 0.4% 310.0%
Bicycle 16 0.2% -61.9%
Walk 177 1.8% -25.3%
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.

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FAQs about Westerly demographics 

What is the total population of Westerly?

Westerly has a total population of 18,411 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Westerly?

The gender ratio in Westerly is as follows:
  • 51.7% males (9,519 residents)
  • 48.3% females (8,892 residents)

What is the median age in Westerly?

The median age in Westerly is 50.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Westerly?

The age distribution in Westerly is as follows:
  • Under 15: 10.7% (1,965 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.7% (2,342 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.8% (3,824 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30.7% (5,647 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.2% (4,633 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Westerly?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Westerly is as follows:
  • White: 88.7% (16,327 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (117 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (3 residents)
  • Asian: 3.2% (590 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5% (929 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (445 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93% of the population in Westerly.

How many housing units are there in Westerly?

There are 9,028 housing units in Westerly, reflecting a -2.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Westerly has a total of 8,282 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Westerly?

Westerly has a median household income of $95,207, representing a +15.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97% in Westerly, with a workforce of 9,810 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.1% (8,248 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.9% (1,562 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.7% (758 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.9% (6,563 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.6% (1,527 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (962 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