Barnstable County, Massachusetts Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Barnstable County is located in Massachusetts with a total population of 230,073. It is the 9th most populous county out of 14 in Massachusetts. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Barnstable County is 55.1 years. This is 38% higher than the state median of 40.0 years. Only 14.4% of residents are under 18, indicating fewer families with children. 13.7% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Barnstable County is $94,452. This is 7% lower than the state median of $101,341. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 20% higher. The poverty rate stands at 7.4%. This is 26% lower than the state poverty rate of 10.0%. The unemployment rate is 4.6%. This is 10% lower than the state rate of 5.1%. The median home value is $575,900. Housing costs are 10% higher than the state median of $525,800. The home-value-to-income ratio of 6.1x suggests that housing affordability is a significant concern for many residents. 80.5% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 29% higher than the state average of 62.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

Barnstable County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 85.9% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 3.5%. The Black or African American population (2.7%) is well below the state average of 6.5%. The Hispanic or Latino population (3.5%) is well below the state average of 12.9%. The Asian population (1.5%) is well below the state average of 7.0%.

Education

47.4% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 2% higher than the state rate of 46.6%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 96.4%. Notably, 21.6% of adults hold a graduate or professional degree, indicating a highly educated workforce.