According to the 2023 American Community Survey – the latest estimate of demographic statistics available – the population of Ulster County is estimated at 182,109, which is up 2.1% since the 2020 Census but generally in line with the population estimates from the 2010 Census.

An overview of historic population trends in Ulster County reveals steady but declining growth rate from 1950 through to the 2010 decennial census. A strong 28% increase between 1950 and 1960 stands in stark contrast to the less than 3% increase between 2000 and 2010 (Figure 4.2) and the estimated 2.3% decline between 2010 and 2020. The population recovered in the postCovid era with a 2.1% increase between 2020 and 2023 to almost match 2010 population levels.

An overall declining rate of population growth can be attributed to four primary factors:  mortality, out-migration among older adults, a declining birth rate, and an inability to retain young people as they enter adulthood.

It is challenging to predict Ulster County’s population over several decades with any level of certainty. In general areas south of New Paltz are likely to see increases in population over time due to proximity to employment centers outside of the County while the City of Kingston area enjoys renewed interest due to costs, quality of life, and opportunities for networking with others from the metropolitan area.