The 2010 census counted 1,002 people, or 16.4% of the city's total population. Of those people, 812 were school-aged children. This is a small percentage, but it suggests that more smaller units are needed. The population of Chatham is growing, but this growth is not as fast as it was a decade ago.
The City has a diverse population. There are a large number of senior citizens, making up approximately 38.9% of the population in 2016. In contrast, seniors make up about 14.5% of the population in Barnstable County and 15.1% of the state's population.
This small city is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. However, the housing market is unaffordable for many residents. The city must strategically plan for future residential growth. It should promote housing types that will accommodate the needs of local families and complement the town's seaside character.
The city has a relatively low proportion of people who did not finish high school. Meanwhile, its highest percentage of residents completed college. It is also a diverse community, with very few people living below the poverty line. However, people in this neighborhood are not as educated as those in some other neighborhoods.
Chatham is a quaint city with family-owned businesses. It has a pedestrian-friendly Main Street and many sidewalks. The downtown features on-street parallel parking as well as some off-street parking lots. The city is also home to a major agriculture seed breeding company, Pioneer Hi-Bred Limited.