ZIP Code 21217 — Demographics & Housing Data 2023

Overview

If you’re considering ZIP code 21217 for a home purchase, investment opportunity, or business venture, understanding the area’s demographic and housing landscape is essential. Located in Baltimore, Maryland, this ZIP code offers a unique mix of urban density and diverse community dynamics. With data from 2023, this snapshot provides a clear picture of population trends, income levels, housing costs, and racial composition to help you make informed decisions. Whether you’re a homebuyer, real estate investor, small-business owner, or analyst, these insights will guide your next steps in ZIP 21217.

Population & Households

ZIP 21217 is home to a population of 31,125 residents as of 2023, making it a moderately sized urban community. This population is distributed across 14,952 households, reflecting a significant residential presence. However, the total number of housing units stands at 20,064, indicating a notable share of vacant or non-residential properties. This gap between households and housing units could signal opportunities for investors or developers looking to revitalize or repurpose available spaces in the area.

Income & Housing Costs

The median household income in ZIP 21217 is $37,207, which is relatively modest compared to national averages. This figure suggests that affordability is a key consideration for residents and potential newcomers. On the housing front, the median house value is $175,900, offering a relatively accessible entry point for homebuyers in an urban setting. For renters, the median rent is $1,065 per month, which aligns with the income levels in the area but may still pose challenges for lower-income households. These metrics highlight ZIP 21217 as a potentially budget-friendly option for buyers and renters, while also presenting considerations for investors assessing rental yield potential.

Race & Ethnicity

The racial and ethnic composition of ZIP 21217 is predominantly African American, with 80.77% of the population identifying as Black. White residents make up 12.34% of the population, while Asian and Hispanic communities account for 1.86% and 2.0%, respectively. This demographic profile reflects a community with strong cultural roots and a predominantly African American identity. For businesses and investors, understanding this composition can inform marketing strategies, community engagement, and service offerings tailored to the area’s unique needs and preferences.

Key Facts

• Total population in ZIP 21217: 31,125 residents as of 2023.
• Total households: 14,952, indicating a dense residential base.
• Total housing units: 20,064, with a notable share of unoccupied properties.
• Median household income: $37,207, reflecting affordability challenges.
• Median house value: $175,900, a potential draw for first-time buyers.
• Median rent: $1,065, aligning with local income levels.
• Racial composition: 80.77% Black, 12.34% White, 1.86% Asian, 2.0% Hispanic.

What This Means for You

For homebuyers, ZIP 21217 offers an affordable entry into homeownership with a median house value of $175,900. The lower median income suggests you’ll need to budget carefully, but the area’s housing costs could be a fit for first-time buyers or those seeking urban living on a budget. Investors and real estate agents should note the surplus of housing units (20,064 total versus 14,952 households), which may indicate opportunities for renovation, rental properties, or development projects. The modest rental rates could yield steady returns if vacancy rates are managed effectively. Small-business owners can leverage the area’s predominantly African American demographic to tailor products, services, and marketing to resonate with the community’s cultural identity. Finally, analysts can use these metrics to benchmark ZIP 21217 against neighboring areas for deeper market studies or policy recommendations. Across all groups, the data points to a community with both challenges and potential for growth.

Run This Study Yourself

• Curious to dive deeper into ZIP 21217 or compare it with other areas? Start by visiting ZipcodeGPT for a user-friendly platform to access detailed demographic and housing data.
• Enter any ZIP code to generate a customized report with the latest metrics tailored to your needs as a buyer, investor, or business owner.
• Use the insights to make data-driven decisions, whether you’re scouting a new home, planning a business, or analyzing market trends.