Herkimer County, New York Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Herkimer County is located in New York with a total population of 59,932. It is the 42nd most populous county out of 62 in New York. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Herkimer County is 44.6 years. This is 13% higher than the state median of 39.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Herkimer County is $68,858. This is 19% lower than the state median of $84,578. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 12% lower. The poverty rate stands at 13.3%. This is 3% lower than the state poverty rate of 13.7%. The unemployment rate is 4.4%. This is 29% lower than the state rate of 6.2%. The median home value is $135,000. Housing costs are 67% lower than the state median of $403,000. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.0x, Herkimer County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 75.9% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 40% higher than the state average of 54.3%.

Race & Ethnicity

Herkimer County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 91.6% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.7%. The White (non-Hispanic) population is significantly higher than the state average (91.6% vs 53.4%). The Black or African American population (0.9%) is well below the state average of 13.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (2.7%) is well below the state average of 19.6%. The Asian population (0.7%) is well below the state average of 8.8%.

Education

22.6% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 43% 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 91.7%.