Chautauqua County, New York Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Chautauqua County is located in New York with a total population of 126,329. It is the 23rd most populous county out of 62 in New York. The county encompasses 2 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Chautauqua County is 42.7 years. This is 8% higher than the state median of 39.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Chautauqua County is $56,507. This is 33% lower than the state median of $84,578. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 28% lower. The poverty rate stands at 17.0%. This is 24% higher than the state poverty rate of 13.7%. The unemployment rate is 5.5%. This is 11% lower than the state rate of 6.2%. The median home value is $119,300. Housing costs are 70% lower than the state median of $403,000. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.1x, Chautauqua County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 69.1% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 27% higher than the state average of 54.3%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Chautauqua County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 84.3% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 9.3%. The White (non-Hispanic) population is significantly higher than the state average (84.3% vs 53.4%). The Black or African American population (2.1%) is well below the state average of 13.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (9.3%) is well below the state average of 19.6%. The Asian population (0.7%) is well below the state average of 8.8%.

Education

25.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 37% lower than the state rate of 39.6%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 90.0%.