Derby, CT
Population 12,359 · Connecticut
About Derby, CT
Derby is a mid-sized city located in Connecticut with a population of 12,359 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,263 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 46.3 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Derby features a median home value of $242,300, which is 1% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Derby in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,453, 25% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 6,127 total housing units, 62% are owner-occupied (3,592 units) and 38% are renter-occupied (2,183 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Derby shows an unemployment rate of 7.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 9.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Derby have an average one-way commute time of 27.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
33.2% of Derby residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.4% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 12.0% Black or African American, and 8.5% Asian residents, with 12.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Derby Ranks in Connecticut
Cost of Living in Derby, CT
Compared to national averages, Derby has a median household income of $76,263 (1% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $242,300, which is 1% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,453 is 25% above the US average of $1,163. Within Connecticut, Derby's income is 38% below the state average of $123,065, and home values are 53% below the state median of $516,920.
Why Live in Derby, CT?
Derby offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,263, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $242,300, below the US average of $244,900, and a low poverty rate of 9.3%, better than the national average.
Derby has a population of 12,359 with a median age of 46.3 years. Compare Derby with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Connecticut.
Similar Cities Near Derby
Cities in Connecticut with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windsor Locks | 12,555 | $90,417 | $236,800 | Compare |
| Bethel | 11,606 | $88,344 | $377,500 | Compare |
| Storrs | 13,502 | $33,125 | $304,600 | Compare |
| Orange | 14,251 | $145,625 | $466,800 | Compare |
| Greenwich | 14,528 | $136,154 | $1,486,100 | Compare |
| Trumbull Center | 10,137 | $124,547 | $463,100 | Compare |
| Kensington | 9,936 | $105,000 | $304,400 | Compare |
| Sandy Hook | 9,718 | $144,335 | $460,600 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Connecticut
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Derby With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Derby
What is the population of Derby, CT?
The population of Derby, CT is 12,359 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Connecticut.
What is the median household income in Derby?
The median household income in Derby, CT is $76,263 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Derby?
The median home value in Derby, CT is $242,300, which is 1% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Derby?
The median monthly rent in Derby, CT is $1,453, which is 25% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Derby?
The unemployment rate in Derby, CT is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Derby, CT a good place to live?
Derby offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 12,359 and a median age of 46.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Derby, CT?
33.2% of residents in Derby aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Derby?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Derby, CT: median home value is $242,300 (1% below national), median rent is $1,453/month, and median household income is $76,263. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Derby?
The poverty rate in Derby, CT is 9.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Derby, CT?
Derby's population is 0.4% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 12.0% Black or African American, 8.5% Asian, and 11.3% two or more races. 12.5% of residents are foreign-born.