Gunnison County, CO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
17,241
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$84,527/yr
9.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,506
1.3% year-over-year change

Gunnison County population

How many people live in Gunnison County

Gunnison County is home to 17,241 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 54.8% of Gunnison County locals are male, and 45.2% are female.

Total population
17,241
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
54.8%
9,443
Female
45.2%
7,798
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,443 54.8% 0.4%
Female 7,798 45.2% 0.6%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Gunnison County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.6% are children under 15, then 20.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.6% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.6%
15 to 24
20.7%
25 to 44
27.6%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
15.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,008 11.6% -1.1%
15 to 24 3,565 20.7% -4.2%
25 to 44 4,759 27.6% 0.3%
45 to 64 4,306 25% 3.2%
Over 65 2,603 15.1% 4.6%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Gunnison County, 94.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.1% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.9%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,304 94.6% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 665 3.9% 13.1%
Non-citizens 272 1.6% 39.5%
Racial breakdown
White
87.1%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7.5%
Other
2.2%
Value Percent
White 15,012 87.1%
Black or African American 284 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 108 0.6%
Asian 158 0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 13 0.1%
Two or more races 1,288 7.5%
Other 378 2.2%

Households in Gunnison County

A peek inside Gunnison County households

Gunnison County has 8,494 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.1% are families, while the remaining 46.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,494
7.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,984
Family households
4,510
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,984 46.9% 6.9%
Family households 4,510 53.1% 8.0%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Gunnison County

The housing landscape of Gunnison County

Gunnison County's housing consists of 12,506 units, with 63.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 4.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,506
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,955 63.6%
1 unit, attached 832 6.6%
2 units 586 4.7%
3 or 4 units 685 5.5%
5 to 9 units 773 6.2%
10 to 19 units 283 2.3%
20 to 49 units 573 4.6%
50 or more units 255 2%
Mobile home 543 4.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 21 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
208
57.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Gunnison County

In Gunnison County, the median construction year is 1987. About 7.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 886 7.1% -4.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 216 1.7% 71.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 503 4% 35.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 625 5% -3.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,670 21.4% 2.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,005 16% 5.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,131 17% -2.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,575 20.6% -14.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 687 5.5% 55.1%
Built in 2020 or later 208 1.7% 57.6%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Gunnison County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,494 occupied housing units in Gunnison County, 66.8% are owner-occupied, while 33.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 32.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,494
7.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,821
Owner occupied
5,673
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,821 33.2% 8.0%
Owner occupied 5,673 66.8% 7.2%
Unoccupied housing units
32.1%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Gunnison County housing costs

Housing costs in Gunnison County come to a median of $1,566 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,252.

Median housing costs per month
$1,566/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Gunnison County
$1,252/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Gunnison County

Gunnison County education at a glance

About 15.7% of the population in Gunnison County went to high school, while 23% pursued college studies. Another 4.7% earned an associate degree and 41.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 127 0.9% 28.3%
High school diploma 2,298 15.7% -16.0%
College diploma 3,357 23% -3.5%
Associate degree 694 4.7% -19.1%
Bachelor's degree 6,016 41.1% 15.0%
Graduate degree 2,135 14.6% 3.6%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Gunnison County

How much people earn in Gunnison County

The average annual household income in Gunnison County was $108,255 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $84,527, reflecting a +9.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Gunnison County
$108,255/year
5.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Gunnison County
$84,527/year
9.3% year-over-year change

Gunnison County income by age

In Gunnison County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,981. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $99,157 overall. Overall, 88.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $86,981 7.8%
45 - 64 $99,157 4.6%
Over 65 $78,393 10.3%
Above poverty level
14,284
Below poverty level
1,820
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,284 88.7% 2.3%
Below poverty level 1,820 11.3% -13.9%

Employment in Gunnison County

Workforce and job types in Gunnison County

The job market in Gunnison County is powered by 10,414 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 85.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 24.1% run their own businesses, 48% are employed by private companies, and 20.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,414
0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
8,867
Blue collar
1,547
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,867 85.1% 2.8%
Blue collar 1,547 14.9% -12.4%
Employer type
Self employees
24.1%
Private companies
48%
Governmental workers
20.8%
Not for profit companies
7.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,512 24.1% 16.3%
Private companies 5,004 48% -7.8%
Governmental workers 2,162 20.8% 13.9%
Not for profit companies 736 7.1% -18.3%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
29.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Gunnison County stands at 4.7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Gunnison County

How people get around in Gunnison County

In Gunnison County, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 64.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
1.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,500 64.8% -1.3%
Bus or trolleybus 413 4.1% -32.0%
Bicycle 439 4.4% 43.9%
Walk 802 8% -30.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Gunnison County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
81210 664 395 $0 $114,506
81220 251 121 $250,001 $278,726
81224 3,101 1,768 $89,907 $130,665
81225 823 472 $85,357 $112,760
81230 10,971 5,033 $77,942 $92,172
81237 169 74 $134,038 $120,582
81239 9 6 $0 $0
81241 238 131 $0 $87,538
81243 174 90 $73,636 $82,036

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FAQs about Gunnison County demographics 

What is the total population of Gunnison County?

Gunnison County has a total population of 17,241 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Gunnison County?

The gender ratio in Gunnison County is as follows:
  • 54.8% males (9,443 residents)
  • 45.2% females (7,798 residents)

What is the median age in Gunnison County?

The median age in Gunnison County is 37.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Gunnison County?

The age distribution in Gunnison County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.6% (2,008 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 20.7% (3,565 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.6% (4,759 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (4,306 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.1% (2,603 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Gunnison County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Gunnison County is as follows:
  • White: 87.1% (15,012 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (284 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (108 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (158 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (13 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.5% (1,288 residents)
  • Other: 2.2% (378 residents)

What percentage of the population in Gunnison County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.6% of the population in Gunnison County.

How many housing units are there in Gunnison County?

There are 12,506 housing units in Gunnison County, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Gunnison County and what is the average household size?

Gunnison County has a total of 8,494 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Gunnison County?

Gunnison County has a median household income of $84,527, representing a +9.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Gunnison County?

The employment rate is 95.3% in Gunnison County, with a workforce of 10,414 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.1% (8,867 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.9% (1,547 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 24.1% (2,512 residents)
  • Private companies: 48% (5,004 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.8% (2,162 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.1% (736 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025