Schenectady County, New York Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Schenectady County is located in New York with a total population of 159,603. It is the 22nd most populous county out of 62 in New York. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Schenectady County is 39.6 years. This is about average than the state median of 39.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Schenectady County is $76,989. This is 9% lower than the state median of $84,578. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 2% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.5%. This is 9% lower than the state poverty rate of 13.7%. The unemployment rate is 5.8%. This is 7% lower than the state rate of 6.2%. The median home value is $223,100. Housing costs are 45% lower than the state median of $403,000. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.9x, Schenectady County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 63.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 18% higher than the state average of 54.3%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Schenectady County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 68.7% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 10.1%. The Hispanic or Latino population (8.1%) is well below the state average of 19.6%.

Education

35.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 11% 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 91.8%. Notably, 15.7% of adults hold a graduate or professional degree, indicating a highly educated workforce.