Essex County, New York Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Essex County is located in New York with a total population of 37,077. It is the 56th most populous county out of 62 in New York.

Age Demographics

The median age in Essex County is 49.5 years. This is 25% higher than the state median of 39.6 years. 10.5% 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 Essex County is $70,215. This is 17% lower than the state median of $84,578. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 11% lower. The poverty rate stands at 11.8%. This is 14% lower than the state poverty rate of 13.7%. The unemployment rate is 5.0%. This is 19% lower than the state rate of 6.2%. The median home value is $200,000. Housing costs are 50% lower than the state median of $403,000. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.8x, Essex County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 78.1% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 44% higher than the state average of 54.3%.

Race & Ethnicity

Essex County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 91.7% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.8%. The White (non-Hispanic) population is significantly higher than the state average (91.7% 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 (2.8%) is well below the state average of 19.6%. The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 8.8%.

Education

31.3% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 21% 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 91.5%.