How many real estate agents are in the state of New York?

Current New York Real Estate License Statistics

According to the most recent data from November 2024, New York has 79,606 active real estate agents and 46,139 active brokers, totaling 125,745 licensed real estate professionals. Of these licensed professionals, approximately 60,000 are members of the New York State Association of Realtors (NYSAR). NYSAR membership provides agents with advocacy, continuing education, and networking opportunities that can significantly impact career success.

Year-Over-Year Market Changes

The New York real estate market has experienced notable shifts in professional participation according to official Department of State licensing data:

April 2023 vs November 2024 Comparison:

• Real Estate Agents: 82,171 → 79,606 (3.12% decrease)
• Real Estate Brokers: 49,317 → 46,139 (6.44% decrease)
• Total Market Contraction: 4.5% fewer licensed professionals

This decline mirrors national trends where real estate professionals are leaving the industry due to market conditions, interest rate changes, and evolving consumer behavior. However, this contraction may create opportunities for new agents entering the market with reduced competition.

Regional Breakdown by New York Markets

While statewide data shows 125,745 total professionals, the distribution varies significantly across New York's diverse markets:

High-Concentration Areas:

• New York City (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Staten Island): Approximately 40-45% of state's agents
• Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk Counties): Approximately 20-25% of state's agents
• Westchester and Rockland Counties: Approximately 8-12% of state's agents

Emerging Markets:

• Albany Capital Region: Growing tech and government sector driving demand
• Buffalo-Niagara: Affordable housing market attracting new residents
• Rochester: University and healthcare sectors supporting steady market

Regional Income Potential

New York real estate agents earn an average of $93,860 annually according to ZipRecruiter's 2025 salary analysis, with salaries ranging from $31,180 for entry-level agents to $140,583 for experienced professionals. Top performers in Manhattan luxury markets often exceed $200,000 annually.

Income varies significantly by region and specialization. Manhattan luxury residential, commercial real estate, and international client services typically offer the highest earning potential, while emerging markets in upstate New York provide opportunities for steady $60,000-$100,000 annual incomes.

National Context: New York's Market Position

U.S. Real Estate Professional Statistics:

• Total Active Licensed Agents: Nearly 3 million
• Total Realtors: More than 1.5 million
• Year-over-year change: 2% decrease nationally

New York's Market Share:

• New York represents 2.6% of all U.S. licensed real estate agents
• New York represents 4% of all U.S. Realtors
• Despite being the 4th most populous state, New York has a relatively smaller concentration of real estate professionals

This lower concentration suggests either higher barriers to entry or greater efficiency per agent, potentially indicating stronger earning potential for those who do enter the market.

Market Opportunity Analysis

Why Now May Be an Ideal Time to Enter New York Real Estate:

The 4.5% reduction in licensed professionals creates a unique opportunity window. With fewer competitors and steady housing demand driven by New York's economic diversity, new agents may find:

• Reduced competition for new client acquisition
• Increased referral opportunities from retiring agents
• Growing demand in emerging markets outside NYC
• Technology adoption creating efficiency advantages for tech-savvy newcomers

Industry Projections:

• 46,000 annual job openings projected nationally over the next decade
• Openings driven by retirements and career transitions
• New York's diverse economy supports multiple real estate market segments

Getting Your New York Real Estate License

Becoming a licensed real estate agent in New York requires completing six essential steps over approximately 2-4 months:

Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements - Be 18+ years old with a high school diploma and legal work authorization.

Step 2: Complete 77 Hours of Pre-License Education - Choose from state-approved online or in-person courses.

Step 3: Pass Course Exam - Administered by your education provider.

Step 4: Pass State Licensing Exam - 75 questions in 90 minutes, $15 fee, scheduled through PSI Services. Free practice exams can help you prepare.

Step 5: Find a Sponsoring Broker - Required before license activation; research commission structures and training programs.

Step 6: Apply and Pay Fees - $50 application fee with 10-14 day processing time.

Complete information about licensing requirements and applications is available through the New York Department of State's real estate division. For a comprehensive guide to the entire process, see how to get your New York real estate license step-by-step.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York's real estate market oversaturated? With only 2.6% of U.S. agents working in the 4th most populous state, New York has relatively low agent density, suggesting growth opportunities rather than oversaturation.

How much do NYC real estate agents make? Manhattan agents typically earn $100,000-$300,000+ annually, significantly higher than the state average due to higher property values and transaction volumes.

What's the best specialization for new agents? First-time homebuyers, rental markets, and emerging neighborhoods offer excellent entry points, while luxury and commercial markets require more experience and connections.

How long does it take to get licensed? Most candidates complete the entire licensing process in 2-4 months, depending on course pace and exam scheduling. Learn more about timing and costs.

Start Your New York Real Estate Career

The 4.5% reduction in licensed professionals creates reduced competition and increased opportunities for new agents. With New York's diverse economy supporting multiple market segments and average earnings of $93,860, this may be an ideal time to enter the field.

Ready To Get Your License? Start your pre-licensing course today and launch your New York real estate career!