Bemidji, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
15,569
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,405/yr
2.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,232
1.7% year-over-year change

Bemidji population

How many people live in Bemidji

Bemidji is home to 15,569 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Bemidji locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
15,569
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
7,548
Female
51.5%
8,021
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,548 48.5% 2.0%
Female 8,021 51.5% -0.9%
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 Bemidji is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.8% are children under 15, then 27.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.5% of the population, while another 14.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
30
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.8%
15 to 24
27.8%
25 to 44
24.5%
45 to 64
14.8%
Over 65
17.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,462 15.8% -4.9%
15 to 24 4,334 27.8% 1.1%
25 to 44 3,813 24.5% 1.5%
45 to 64 2,299 14.8% 1.6%
Over 65 2,661 17.1% 2.5%
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 Bemidji, 97.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 71.5% of locals are Caucasian, 2.4% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. Another 11.9% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,133 97.2% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 257 1.6% -1.1%
Non-citizens 179 1.2% 4.7%
Racial breakdown
White
71.5%
Black or African American
2.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
11.9%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
11.5%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 11,129 71.5%
Black or African American 369 2.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,855 11.9%
Asian 179 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 9 0.1%
Two or more races 1,791 11.5%
Other 237 1.5%

Households in Bemidji

A peek inside Bemidji households

Bemidji has 6,636 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.7% are families, while the remaining 53.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,636
2.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,538
Family households
3,098
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,538 53.3% 3.2%
Family households 3,098 46.7% 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 Bemidji

The housing landscape of Bemidji

Bemidji's housing consists of 7,232 units, with 47.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.8% 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 5.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,232
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,419 47.3%
1 unit, attached 562 7.8%
2 units 85 1.2%
3 or 4 units 420 5.8%
5 to 9 units 261 3.6%
10 to 19 units 594 8.2%
20 to 49 units 1,045 14.4%
50 or more units 422 5.8%
Mobile home 424 5.9%
Homes built since 2020
150
123.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Bemidji

In Bemidji, the median construction year is 1982. About 12.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 906 12.5% 7.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 476 6.6% 5.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 640 8.8% 7.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 613 8.5% -5.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 848 11.7% -19.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 651 9% 6.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 614 8.5% -2.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,068 14.8% 0.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,266 17.5% 9.3%
Built in 2020 or later 150 2.1% 123.9%
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.

Bemidji occupancy rates

Out of the 6,636 occupied housing units in Bemidji, 43.1% are owner-occupied, while 56.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,636
2.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,776
Owner occupied
2,860
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,776 56.9% 0.8%
Owner occupied 2,860 43.1% 5.7%
Unoccupied housing units
8.2%
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.

Bemidji housing costs

Housing costs in Bemidji come to a median of $1,050 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,067.

Median housing costs per month
$1,050/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 Bemidji
$1,067/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 Bemidji

Bemidji education at a glance

About 34% of the population in Bemidji went to high school, while 27.9% pursued college studies. Another 10.6% earned an associate degree and 14.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 296 2.4% 45.8%
High school diploma 4,257 34% 10.7%
College diploma 3,493 27.9% -7.5%
Associate degree 1,331 10.6% -4.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,850 14.8% -8.2%
Graduate degree 1,293 10.3% 12.9%
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 Bemidji

How much people earn in Bemidji

The average annual household income in Bemidji was $71,996 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,405, reflecting a +2.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Bemidji
$71,996/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Bemidji
$55,405/year
2.9% year-over-year change

Bemidji income by age

In Bemidji, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,821. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,667 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,387, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,461 in earnings. Overall, 78.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,387 5.2%
25 - 44 $69,821 2.1%
45 - 64 $76,667 20.3%
Over 65 $50,461 1.8%
Above poverty level
10,878
Below poverty level
3,002
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 10,878 78.4% 0.4%
Below poverty level 3,002 21.6% 4.3%

Average renter income in Bemidji

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Bemidji, their median household income was $41,604 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$41,604
Rent-to-income ratio
30.8%
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 Bemidji

Workforce and job types in Bemidji

The job market in Bemidji is powered by 7,875 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.9% run their own businesses, 60.2% are employed by private companies, and 23.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,875
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
6,357
Blue collar
1,518
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,357 80.7% -2.1%
Blue collar 1,518 19.3% 16.3%
Employer type
Self employees
6.9%
Private companies
60.2%
Governmental workers
23.8%
Not for profit companies
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 544 6.9% -22.5%
Private companies 4,740 60.2% 5.7%
Governmental workers 1,874 23.8% 4.6%
Not for profit companies 717 9.1% -12.4%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
0.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Bemidji stands at 5.2%, 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 Bemidji

How people get around in Bemidji

In Bemidji, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
17 min
5.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,647 86.7% 2.8%
Bus or trolleybus 59 0.8% -30.6%
Bicycle 68 0.9% -15.0%
Walk 376 4.9% 22.9%
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 Bemidji by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56601 34,784 14,124 $72,262 $93,274

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FAQs about Bemidji demographics 

What is the total population of Bemidji?

Bemidji has a total population of 15,569 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 Bemidji?

The gender ratio in Bemidji is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (7,548 residents)
  • 51.5% females (8,021 residents)

What is the median age in Bemidji?

The median age in Bemidji is 30.

What is the age distribution of the population in Bemidji?

The age distribution in Bemidji is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.8% (2,462 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 27.8% (4,334 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.5% (3,813 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 14.8% (2,299 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.1% (2,661 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Bemidji?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Bemidji is as follows:
  • White: 71.5% (11,129 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.4% (369 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 11.9% (1,855 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (179 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (9 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.5% (1,791 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (237 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.2% of the population in Bemidji.

How many housing units are there in Bemidji?

There are 7,232 housing units in Bemidji, reflecting a +1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Bemidji has a total of 6,636 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Bemidji?

Bemidji has a median household income of $55,405, representing a +2.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.8% in Bemidji, with a workforce of 7,875 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.7% (6,357 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.3% (1,518 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.9% (544 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.2% (4,740 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.8% (1,874 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.1% (717 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