Essex County, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,623
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,520/yr
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,811
0.5% year-over-year change

Essex County population

How many people live in Essex County

Essex County is home to 10,623 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.2% of Essex County locals are male, and 55.8% are female.

Total population
10,623
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.2%
4,699
Female
55.8%
5,924
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,699 44.2% -2.7%
Female 5,924 55.8% 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 Essex County is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 10.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.8% of the population, while another 28.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
10.8%
25 to 44
20.8%
45 to 64
28.8%
Over 65
24.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,637 15.4% 2.1%
15 to 24 1,146 10.8% -9.8%
25 to 44 2,204 20.8% 5.0%
45 to 64 3,060 28.8% -2.0%
Over 65 2,576 24.2% 2.8%
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 Essex County, 94.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 54.8% of locals are Caucasian, 37.1% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.6% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.8%
Non-citizens
2.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,026 94.4% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 295 2.8% -14.2%
Non-citizens 302 2.8% 45.9%
Racial breakdown
White
54.8%
Black or African American
37.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.6%
Two or more races
5.1%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 5,819 54.8%
Black or African American 3,941 37.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 11 0.1%
Asian 107 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 62 0.6%
Two or more races 542 5.1%
Other 141 1.3%

Households in Essex County

A peek inside Essex County households

Essex County has 4,447 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.9% are families, while the remaining 44.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,447
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,962
Family households
2,485
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,962 44.1% 15.7%
Family households 2,485 55.9% -8.0%
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 Essex County

The housing landscape of Essex County

Essex County's housing consists of 5,811 units, with 73.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.5% 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 12.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,811
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,281 73.7%
1 unit, attached 264 4.5%
2 units 84 1.4%
3 or 4 units 43 0.7%
5 to 9 units 228 3.9%
10 to 19 units 41 0.7%
20 to 49 units 66 1.1%
50 or more units 71 1.2%
Mobile home 732 12.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
43
207.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Essex County

In Essex County, the median construction year is 1980. About 7.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 18.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 432 7.4% 0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 393 6.8% 21.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 730 12.6% 17.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 336 5.8% -19.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,052 18.1% 7.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 907 15.6% -2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 625 10.8% -4.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,099 18.9% -4.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 194 3.3% -24.5%
Built in 2020 or later 43 0.7% 207.1%
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.

Essex County occupancy rates

Out of the 4,447 occupied housing units in Essex County, 71.7% are owner-occupied, while 28.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 23.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,447
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,257
Owner occupied
3,190
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,257 28.3% -7.9%
Owner occupied 3,190 71.7% 5.2%
Unoccupied housing units
23.5%
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.

Essex County housing costs

Housing costs in Essex County come to a median of $965 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $972.

Median housing costs per month
$965/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 Essex County
$972/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 Essex County

Essex County education at a glance

About 50.6% of the population in Essex County went to high school, while 23.9% pursued college studies. Another 4.6% earned an associate degree and 9.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 454 5.2% 12.7%
High school diploma 4,418 50.6% 6.7%
College diploma 2,088 23.9% -8.5%
Associate degree 402 4.6% -15.7%
Bachelor's degree 807 9.2% -10.6%
Graduate degree 554 6.4% 12.4%
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 Essex County

How much people earn in Essex County

The average annual household income in Essex County was $81,300 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,520, reflecting a +0.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Essex County
$81,300/year
7.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Essex County
$56,520/year
0.1% year-over-year change

Essex County income by age

In Essex County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,081. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,500 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $77,604, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,864 in earnings. Overall, 87.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $77,604 3.3%
25 - 44 $61,081 13.5%
45 - 64 $67,500 1.4%
Over 65 $38,864 -18.1%
Above poverty level
9,105
Below poverty level
1,296
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,105 87.5% 3.0%
Below poverty level 1,296 12.5% -19.4%

Employment in Essex County

Workforce and job types in Essex County

The job market in Essex County is powered by 4,286 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.6% run their own businesses, 66.3% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,286
1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
2,914
Blue collar
1,372
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,914 68% 1.3%
Blue collar 1,372 32% 2.9%
Employer type
Self employees
10.6%
Private companies
66.3%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
8.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 453 10.6% -14.5%
Private companies 2,842 66.3% 3.5%
Governmental workers 628 14.6% 12.8%
Not for profit companies 363 8.5% -3.5%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
-39.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Essex County stands at 3.9%, 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 Essex County

How people get around in Essex County

In Essex County, the average commute time is 38 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
38 min
8.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,637 85.4% 6.1%
Walk 60 1.4% -23.1%
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 Essex County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
22436 791 375 $0 $68,931
22437 582 200 $130,139 $264,285
22438 252 82 $87,188 $78,256
22560 6,612 2,709 $61,082 $80,088
22454 2,290 981 $49,480 $62,683
22476 224 100 $53,100 $56,085
22504 227 122 $93,421 $79,383
22509 74 53 $19,449 $22,026
23148 1,471 623 $67,266 $86,896

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FAQs about Essex County demographics 

What is the total population of Essex County?

Essex County has a total population of 10,623 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Essex County?

The gender ratio in Essex County is as follows:
  • 44.2% males (4,699 residents)
  • 55.8% females (5,924 residents)

What is the median age in Essex County?

The median age in Essex County is 47.1.

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

The age distribution in Essex County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (1,637 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.8% (1,146 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.8% (2,204 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.8% (3,060 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.2% (2,576 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Essex County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Essex County is as follows:
  • White: 54.8% (5,819 residents)
  • Black or African American: 37.1% (3,941 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (11 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (107 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.6% (62 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.1% (542 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (141 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.4% of the population in Essex County.

How many housing units are there in Essex County?

There are 5,811 housing units in Essex County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Essex County has a total of 4,447 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Essex County?

Essex County has a median household income of $56,520, representing a +0.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.1% in Essex County, with a workforce of 4,286 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68% (2,914 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32% (1,372 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.6% (453 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.3% (2,842 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (628 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.5% (363 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