Gunnison, CO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,766
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,189/yr
12.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,190
2.5% year-over-year change

Gunnison population

How many people live in Gunnison

Gunnison is home to 6,766 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.9% of Gunnison locals are male, and 44.1% are female.

Total population
6,766
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.9%
3,785
Female
44.1%
2,981
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,785 55.9% -4.6%
Female 2,981 44.1% 8.6%
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 is 25, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.2% are children under 15, then 35.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.4% of the population, while another 11.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 9.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
25.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.2%
15 to 24
35.8%
25 to 44
29.4%
45 to 64
11.1%
Over 65
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 959 14.2% 16.0%
15 to 24 2,419 35.8% -2.1%
25 to 44 1,986 29.4% 1.1%
45 to 64 752 11.1% -2.0%
Over 65 650 9.6% -4.7%
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, 95.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82.4% of locals are Caucasian, 4.2% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. Another 1.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.2%
Non-citizens
0.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,453 95.4% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 281 4.2% 20.6%
Non-citizens 32 0.5% 77.8%
Racial breakdown
White
82.4%
Black or African American
4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
9.8%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 5,577 82.4%
Black or African American 284 4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 86 1.3%
Asian 81 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 8 0.1%
Two or more races 663 9.8%
Other 67 1%

Households in Gunnison

A peek inside Gunnison households

Gunnison has 3,046 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 40.7% are families, while the remaining 59.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,046
3.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,805
Family households
1,241
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,805 59.3% -4.5%
Family households 1,241 40.7% 16.6%
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

The housing landscape of Gunnison

Gunnison's housing consists of 3,190 units, with 51.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.7% 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 7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,190
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,629 51.1%
1 unit, attached 340 10.7%
2 units 183 5.7%
3 or 4 units 187 5.9%
5 to 9 units 231 7.2%
10 to 19 units 86 2.7%
20 to 49 units 234 7.3%
50 or more units 70 2.2%
Mobile home 222 7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
143
74.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Gunnison

In Gunnison, the median construction year is 1981. About 10.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 18.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 346 10.8% -7.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 137 4.3% 67.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 228 7.2% 21.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 180 5.6% 23.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 675 21.2% 19.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 366 11.5% -13.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 308 9.7% 7.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 591 18.5% -23.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 216 6.8% 12.5%
Built in 2020 or later 143 4.5% 74.4%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 3,046 occupied housing units in Gunnison, 48.7% are owner-occupied, while 51.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,046
3.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,563
Owner occupied
1,483
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,563 51.3% -3.9%
Owner occupied 1,483 48.7% 11.8%
Unoccupied housing units
4.5%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Gunnison come to a median of $1,458 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,230.

Median housing costs per month
$1,458/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
$1,230/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

Gunnison education at a glance

About 19.4% of the population in Gunnison went to high school, while 31.8% pursued college studies. Another 4.6% earned an associate degree and 34.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 48 0.9% 23.1%
High school diploma 1,085 19.4% -7.1%
College diploma 1,783 31.8% -4.8%
Associate degree 257 4.6% -36.1%
Bachelor's degree 1,943 34.7% 17.8%
Graduate degree 489 8.7% -5.2%
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

How much people earn in Gunnison

The average annual household income in Gunnison was $73,606 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,189, reflecting a +12.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Gunnison
$73,606/year
7.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Gunnison
$62,189/year
12.4% year-over-year change

Gunnison income by age

In Gunnison, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,423. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $133,125 overall. Overall, 77.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $62,423 39.2%
45 - 64 $133,125 11.7%
Over 65 $31,408 -25.1%
Above poverty level
4,421
Below poverty level
1,260
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,421 77.8% 5.0%
Below poverty level 1,260 22.2% -15.7%

Average renter income in Gunnison

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Gunnison, their median household income was $45,642 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$45,642
Rent-to-income ratio
32.3%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Gunnison

Workforce and job types in Gunnison

The job market in Gunnison is powered by 3,985 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.1% run their own businesses, 54.2% are employed by private companies, and 27.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,985
-4.2% year-over-year change
White collar
3,345
Blue collar
640
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,345 83.9% 0.8%
Blue collar 640 16.1% -24.0%
Employer type
Self employees
15.1%
Private companies
54.2%
Governmental workers
27.2%
Not for profit companies
3.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 600 15.1% 17.9%
Private companies 2,158 54.2% -16.8%
Governmental workers 1,083 27.2% 44.6%
Not for profit companies 144 3.6% -53.2%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
15.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Gunnison stands at 6.4%, 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

How people get around in Gunnison

In Gunnison, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 71.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
-13.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,688 71.4% 1.9%
Bus or trolleybus 291 7.7% -39.5%
Bicycle 197 5.2% 233.9%
Walk 293 7.8% -34.0%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
81230 10,971 5,033 $77,942 $92,172

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FAQs about Gunnison demographics 

What is the total population of Gunnison?

Gunnison has a total population of 6,766 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Gunnison?

The gender ratio in Gunnison is as follows:
  • 55.9% males (3,785 residents)
  • 44.1% females (2,981 residents)

What is the median age in Gunnison?

The median age in Gunnison is 25.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Gunnison?

The age distribution in Gunnison is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.2% (959 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 35.8% (2,419 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.4% (1,986 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 11.1% (752 residents)
  • Over 65: 9.6% (650 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Gunnison?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Gunnison is as follows:
  • White: 82.4% (5,577 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.2% (284 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (86 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (81 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (8 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.8% (663 residents)
  • Other: 1% (67 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.4% of the population in Gunnison.

How many housing units are there in Gunnison?

There are 3,190 housing units in Gunnison, reflecting a +2.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Gunnison has a total of 3,046 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Gunnison?

Gunnison has a median household income of $62,189, representing a +12.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.6% in Gunnison, with a workforce of 3,985 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.9% (3,345 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.1% (640 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.1% (600 residents)
  • Private companies: 54.2% (2,158 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 27.2% (1,083 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.6% (144 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