Statistic Boston Massachusetts National
Population 689,326 6,949,503 328,239,523
Population density (sq mi) 14,260 894 91
Median age 32.4 39.4 37.7
Male/Female ratio 0.9:1 0.9:1 1.0:1
Married (15yrs & older) 35% 53% 55%
Families w/ Kids under 18 39% 43% 43%
Speak English 63% 77% 79%
Speak Spanish 16% 9% 13%

Overview of Boston Demographics

The population of Boston is 689,326, with a population density of 14,260 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 32.4 and 35% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 39% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Boston goes, 23% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 31% report an income exceeding $150,000. The Boston demographics data can provide indispensable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of cities, towns or even villages, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to devise strategies that foster prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents.

Boston Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

The Boston racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown could be indispensable tools for recognizing and rectifying systemic inequities, fostering social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities. In Boston, the racial breakdown reveals 52.1% White, 24.2% Black or African American, 9.8% Asian, 0.3% American Indian and 0.1% Native Hawaiian, with 19.5% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 62.9% reported speaking English only, while 16.3% reported speaking Spanish only. Moreover, 28.2% of residents were classified as foreign-born.

Boston Population Density

High population density areas are renowned for their extensive array of amenities and services, easily accessible to residents within walking distance or a short commute. From healthcare facilities and educational institutions to cultural venues, dining establishments, retail shops and public transportation options, these communities offer convenience and enrichment to their inhabitants. The Boston population density is 14,260 people per square mile, well above the national average of 91, making it one of the most densely populated cities in the nation.

Why are Demographics Important?

Education Allocation: Boston demographics can play a pivotal role in guiding education planning, offering insights into student demographics, school enrollment patterns, and educational requirements. This data aids schools and policymakers in resource allocation and the development of effective educational programs. It serves as a critical tool for identifying disparities in educational access and outcomes among diverse demographic groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status, and students with disabilities. Through the disaggregation of data by demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support, and outcomes for marginalized students. Ultimately, Boston demographic data is indispensable in education for advancing equity, fostering student achievement, and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to the needs of all students.

Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics serve as valuable tools for guiding policy and decision-making processes across government entities, organizations, and businesses. Through the analysis and interpretation of Boston demographics, policymakers, government officials and organizational leaders can identify areas requiring attention, allocate resources strategically and develop policies and initiatives that cater to the unique needs and preferences of various demographic groups. Boston demographic statistics can play a critical role in policy planning by informing resource allocation, enabling evidence-based decision-making, identifying priority areas, forecasting future trends, monitoring policy outcomes and fostering equity and inclusivity. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can craft policies that are targeted, efficient and equitable, thereby addressing the diverse needs of communities.

Healthcare Planning: An analysis of Boston demographics can inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. Understanding demographic trends allows healthcare providers and policymakers to allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs and address health inequities within communities. Leveraging demographic data, healthcare providers, and policymakers strive to achieve equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive healthcare planning approach ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and customized healthcare services to meet the diverse needs of populations.

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Demographics Quick Facts

  • The population density in Boston is 1495% higher than Massachusetts
  • The median age in Boston is 18% lower than Massachusetts
  • In Boston 52.11% of the population is White
  • In Boston 24.20% of the population is Black
  • In Boston 9.82% of the population is Asian

Compare Boston, MA Demographics

      vs

      Boston racial demographics

      Race Boston Massachusetts National
      White 52.11% 79.26% 73.35%
      Black 24.20% 7.26% 12.63%
      Asian 9.82% 6.11% 5.22%
      American Indian 0.31% 0.21% 0.82%
      Native Hawaiian 0.05% 0.03% 0.18%
      Mixed race 7.25% 3.01% 3.06%
      Other race 6.26% 4.13% 4.75%
      In Boston, 19.5% of people are of Hispanic or Latino origin.
      Please note: Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in any/all of the applicable race categories above.

      Household income distribution

      Place of birth by citizenship

      Boston age breakdown

      Marital status

      Age of children in married couples

      Source: The Boston, MA demographics data displayed above is derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS).