Wells County, IN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
28,420
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$71,957/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,074
0.6% year-over-year change

Wells County population

How many people live in Wells County

Wells County is home to 28,420 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Wells County locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
28,420
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
14,200
Female
50%
14,220
Value Percent YoY change
Male 14,200 50% 1.5%
Female 14,220 50% -0.3%
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 Wells County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.5% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24% of the population, while another 24.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.5%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
24%
45 to 64
24.8%
Over 65
18.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,824 20.5% 1.2%
15 to 24 3,447 12.1% 0.3%
25 to 44 6,807 24% 1.0%
45 to 64 7,043 24.8% -1.4%
Over 65 5,299 18.6% 2.2%
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 Wells County, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 27,744 97.6% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 276 1% 10.4%
Non-citizens 400 1.4% 124.7%
Racial breakdown
White
92.6%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
3.5%
Other
2.6%
Value Percent
White 26,309 92.6%
Black or African American 283 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2 0%
Asian 64 0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 30 0.1%
Two or more races 984 3.5%
Other 748 2.6%

Households in Wells County

A peek inside Wells County households

Wells County has 11,546 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.9% are families, while the remaining 35.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,546
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,055
Family households
7,491
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,055 35.1% 10.1%
Family households 7,491 64.9% -2.4%
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 Wells County

The housing landscape of Wells County

Wells County's housing consists of 12,074 units, with 78.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.6% 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 6.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,074
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,444 78.2%
1 unit, attached 314 2.6%
2 units 175 1.4%
3 or 4 units 526 4.4%
5 to 9 units 355 2.9%
10 to 19 units 117 1%
20 to 49 units 112 0.9%
50 or more units 208 1.7%
Mobile home 823 6.8%
Homes built since 2020
76
46.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wells County

In Wells County, the median construction year is 1973. About 27.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,320 27.5% -6.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 384 3.2% -2.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 910 7.5% 15.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 895 7.4% 3.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,596 13.2% -14.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,221 10.1% 1.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,958 16.2% 20.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,001 8.3% -0.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 713 5.9% 5.3%
Built in 2020 or later 76 0.6% 46.1%
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.

Wells County occupancy rates

Out of the 11,546 occupied housing units in Wells County, 75.6% are owner-occupied, while 24.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,546
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,815
Owner occupied
8,731
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,815 24.4% 4.1%
Owner occupied 8,731 75.6% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
4.4%
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.

Wells County housing costs

Housing costs in Wells County come to a median of $862 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $813.

Median housing costs per month
$862/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 Wells County
$813/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 Wells County

Wells County education at a glance

About 50.1% of the population in Wells County went to high school, while 18.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.8% earned an associate degree and 12.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 478 2.2% 20.4%
High school diploma 10,719 50.1% 0.9%
College diploma 3,979 18.6% -7.1%
Associate degree 2,319 10.8% 2.7%
Bachelor's degree 2,739 12.8% 3.7%
Graduate degree 1,172 5.5% 9.3%
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 Wells County

How much people earn in Wells County

The average annual household income in Wells County was $88,952 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $71,957, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wells County
$88,952/year
3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wells County
$71,957/year
3.2% year-over-year change

Wells County income by age

In Wells County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $84,554. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $82,845 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,038 in earnings. Overall, 93% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,750 6.4%
25 - 44 $84,554 3.7%
45 - 64 $82,845 0.8%
Over 65 $53,038 3.7%
Above poverty level
25,656
Below poverty level
1,940
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 25,656 93% 0.9%
Below poverty level 1,940 7% 0.1%

Employment in Wells County

Workforce and job types in Wells County

The job market in Wells County is powered by 14,386 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 73.8% are employed by private companies, and 9.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,386
-0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
9,407
Blue collar
4,979
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,407 65.4% -1.1%
Blue collar 4,979 34.6% 1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
73.8%
Governmental workers
9.9%
Not for profit companies
8.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,090 7.6% -18.1%
Private companies 10,624 73.8% 2.5%
Governmental workers 1,422 9.9% -2.9%
Not for profit companies 1,250 8.7% -1.1%
Unemployment rate
2.6%
26.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wells County stands at 2.6%, 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 Wells County

How people get around in Wells County

In Wells County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
4.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,869 91% -1.0%
Taxicab 59 0.4% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 23 0.2% -28.1%
Motorcycle 67 0.5% -11.8%
Bicycle 9 0.1% -71.0%
Walk 214 1.5% 19.6%
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 Wells County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
46714 15,734 6,399 $66,441 $86,359
46731 657 179 $108,036 $136,602
46759 271 89 $56,354 $65,330
46766 579 184 $85,570 $81,382
46770 2,530 1,045 $66,750 $84,072
46777 6,081 2,649 $72,758 $78,753
46781 1,046 415 $87,768 $106,400
46791 1,210 475 $128,542 $108,944
46792 3,621 1,619 $72,664 $99,162
46799 375 181 $83,125 $85,189

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FAQs about Wells County demographics 

What is the total population of Wells County?

Wells County has a total population of 28,420 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wells County?

The gender ratio in Wells County is as follows:
  • 50% males (14,200 residents)
  • 50% females (14,220 residents)

What is the median age in Wells County?

The median age in Wells County is 39.8.

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

The age distribution in Wells County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.5% (5,824 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (3,447 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24% (6,807 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.8% (7,043 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.6% (5,299 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wells County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wells County is as follows:
  • White: 92.6% (26,309 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (283 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (2 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (64 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (30 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.5% (984 residents)
  • Other: 2.6% (748 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in Wells County.

How many housing units are there in Wells County?

There are 12,074 housing units in Wells County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wells County has a total of 11,546 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wells County?

Wells County has a median household income of $71,957, representing a +3.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.4% in Wells County, with a workforce of 14,386 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.4% (9,407 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.6% (4,979 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (1,090 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.8% (10,624 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.9% (1,422 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.7% (1,250 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