As of the census of 2000, there were 55,277 people, 23,659 households, and 14,455 families residing in the defined area. The population density was 1,624.2/km sq (4,205.8/mi sq). There were 24,368 housing units at an average density of 716.0/km sq (1,854.1/mi sq). The racial makeup of the community was 85.86% White, 2.67% Black or Race (United States Census)African American, 0.17% Native American, 7.92% Asian, 0.05% Pacific Islander, 1.23% from Race (United States Census)other races, and 2.11% from two or more races. 5.43% of the population were Hispanic AmericanHispanic or Latino of any race. There were 23,659 households out of which 28.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.4% were Marriagemarried couples living together, 6.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.9% were non-families. 32.2% of all households were made up of individuals and 11.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.30 and the average family size was 2.92. In the community the population was spread out with 21.9% under the age of 18, 4.6% from 18 to 24, 29.2% from 25 to 44, 27.1% from 45 to 64, and 17.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females there were 87.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.0 males. Bethesda is a wealthy and well-educated area. According to the 2000 Census, Bethesda is the best-educated city in the nation with a population of 50,000 or more. 79% of residents 25 or older have bachelor's degrees and 49% have graduate or professional degrees. The median income for a household is $99,102, and the median income for a family was $130,160. Males had a median income of $84,797 versus $57,569 for females. The per capita income for the area was $58,479. About 1.7% of families and 3.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 1.8% of those under age 18 and 4.1% of those age 65 or over. Many commute to Washington D.C. for work. Bethesda is often associated with its neighboring communities, Potomac, MD, and Chevy Chase Village, MD, for their similar demographics. These three towns together make up the wealthy picturesque Maryland suburban communities for Washington, DC. Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethesda%2C_Maryland