Nantucket County Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Nantucket County, MA had a population of approximately 14,255. The racial composition was about 87% White, 2% African American, 1% Native American, 1% Asian, and roughly 9% identifying as Hispanic or Latino of any race. The median household income was around $107,717, with a poverty rate near 7.6%. The population density was about 228 people per square mile in an area totaling 303 square miles, with 48.5 square miles being land and the rest water.

Nantucket County Housing

As of 2023, Nantucket County, MA, has high real estate values due to its desirability and limited housing supply. The median home value is approximately $2.5 million. Rental prices are also steep, with a median monthly rent around $2,000 to $3,500, depending on the season. The housing stock includes historic homes, modern construction, and luxury estates. The county faces a housing affordability challenge, with many workers commuting from off-island due to high living costs.

Elections in Nantucket County

Nantucket County, MA participated in the 2020 general elections, with a notable focus on the presidential, congressional, and local races.

Presidential Election:

  • Joe Biden (D): 6,170 votes (74.6%)
  • Donald Trump (R): 1,982 votes (24.0%)

Congressional Election (Massachusetts' 9th District):

  • Bill Keating (D, incumbent): 5,877 votes (71.5%)
  • Helen Brady (R): 2,339 votes (28.4%)

Local Elections:

  • Board of Selectmen: Two seats contested
    • Jason Bridges: 3,822 votes
    • Melissa Murphy: 3,100 votes

Voter turnout in Nantucket County for the 2020 general election was approximately 84%, reflecting high engagement in the electoral process. The county has a tendency to lean Democratic in national and state elections.

How Educated in Nantucket County

As of the latest available data, Nantucket County, MA shows a relatively high educational attainment level.

  • High School Graduation Rate: Approximately 92.1% of residents (age 25+) have at least a high school diploma.
  • Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Around 52.7% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher.

Comparisons:

  • National Average:
    • High School Graduation Rate: About 88.5%
    • Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Around 35.0%
  • Massachusetts State Average:
    • High School Graduation Rate: Approximately 90.7%
    • Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Around 45.0%

Nantucket County surpasses both the national and state averages in educational attainment, demonstrating a well-educated population.

Nantucket County Employment Rate

As of the latest data available, Nantucket County, MA, has a unique employment profile due to its seasonal tourism-driven economy. The county’s unemployment rate typically fluctuates, with peaks during the off-season and lower rates during peak tourist periods.

Top Industries:

  1. Tourism and Hospitality: Employs a significant portion of the workforce due to the high volume of tourists.
  2. Construction: Driven by robust residential and commercial development.
  3. Retail Trade: Supports the tourist and local population.
  4. Real Estate: High property demand due to its status as a vacation destination.

Comparison to National and State Averages:

  • The tourism and hospitality sector in Nantucket is substantially higher than both state (Massachusetts) and national averages, reflecting its heavy reliance on tourism.
  • Construction employment is higher compared to national levels but aligns more closely with state trends.
  • Retail trade employment is higher than national averages due to seasonal demand but comparable to state figures.

This employment structure highlights Nantucket’s seasonal economic patterns and dependence on the tourism industry, contrasting with the more diverse and stable economies of the broader state and nation.

Average Income in Nantucket County

As of recent data, Nantucket County, MA, exhibits an average household income significantly higher than both state and national averages.

Statistics Table:

Average Household Income
Nantucket County, MA $132,800
Massachusetts (State Avg.) $84,385
United States (National Avg.) $68,703

Nantucket County’s average household income of $132,800 surpasses Massachusetts' state average of $84,385 and the national average of $68,703. This indicates a substantially higher earning capacity on the island compared to broader geographical norms.

Sources:

  1. U.S. Census Bureau
  2. Massachusetts Department of Revenue

Nantucket County Crime Rates

As of the most recent data, Nantucket County, MA experiences relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. For example, the overall crime rate in Nantucket is approximately 25% lower than the national average. Below is a table detailing specific types of crimes and their rates per 1,000 residents:

Crime Type Rate per 1,000 Residents
Violent Crime 0.3
Property Crime 9.6
Larceny-Theft 7.8
Burglary 1.5
Motor Vehicle Theft 0.3

Note: These figures are averages and can fluctuate year to year. For the most current and detailed statistics, it's advisable to consult local law enforcement reports or official crime databases.