Blue Earth County, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
69,871
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,477/yr
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
29,864
1.1% year-over-year change

Blue Earth County population

How many people live in Blue Earth County

Blue Earth County is home to 69,871 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Blue Earth County locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
69,871
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
35,475
Female
49.2%
34,396
Value Percent YoY change
Male 35,475 50.8% 1.1%
Female 34,396 49.2% 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 Blue Earth County is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.3% are children under 15, then 25.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.1% of the population, while another 19.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.3%
15 to 24
25.2%
25 to 44
24.1%
45 to 64
19.1%
Over 65
15.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 11,366 16.3% -0.8%
15 to 24 17,624 25.2% 3.0%
25 to 44 16,857 24.1% -1.0%
45 to 64 13,368 19.1% -1.7%
Over 65 10,656 15.2% 4.3%
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 Blue Earth County, 94.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.4% of locals are Caucasian, 4.8% are African American and 2.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.5%
Non-citizens
2.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 65,787 94.2% 1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,466 3.5% 23.2%
Non-citizens 1,618 2.3% -28.6%
Racial breakdown
White
85.4%
Black or African American
4.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 59,639 85.4%
Black or African American 3,360 4.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 192 0.3%
Asian 1,621 2.3%
Two or more races 4,017 5.8%
Other 1,042 1.5%

Households in Blue Earth County

A peek inside Blue Earth County households

Blue Earth County has 27,606 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.5% are families, while the remaining 44.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
27,606
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
12,290
Family households
15,316
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 12,290 44.5% 4.6%
Family households 15,316 55.5% -0.8%
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 Blue Earth County

The housing landscape of Blue Earth County

Blue Earth County's housing consists of 29,864 units, with 58.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.2% 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 4.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
29,864
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,393 58.2%
1 unit, attached 2,134 7.2%
2 units 812 2.7%
3 or 4 units 1,160 3.9%
5 to 9 units 1,689 5.7%
10 to 19 units 989 3.3%
20 to 49 units 2,211 7.4%
50 or more units 2,025 6.8%
Mobile home 1,451 4.9%
Homes built since 2020
665
59.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Blue Earth County

In Blue Earth County, the median construction year is 1978. About 18.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,481 18.4% -7.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,425 4.8% 10.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,524 8.4% 3.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,791 9.4% 1.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,343 11.2% 2.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,268 7.6% -1.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,144 10.5% -1.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,667 15.6% 5.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,556 11.9% 1.7%
Built in 2020 or later 665 2.2% 59.9%
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.

Blue Earth County occupancy rates

Out of the 27,606 occupied housing units in Blue Earth County, 61.4% are owner-occupied, while 38.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
27,606
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
10,667
Owner occupied
16,939
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 10,667 38.6% 2.6%
Owner occupied 16,939 61.4% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
7.6%
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.

Blue Earth County housing costs

Housing costs in Blue Earth County come to a median of $1,175 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,123.

Median housing costs per month
$1,175/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 Blue Earth County
$1,123/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 Blue Earth County

Blue Earth County education at a glance

About 28.6% of the population in Blue Earth County went to high school, while 28.3% pursued college studies. Another 12.6% earned an associate degree and 20.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,105 2% 15.2%
High school diploma 16,056 28.6% 1.5%
College diploma 15,856 28.3% -1.8%
Associate degree 7,076 12.6% 2.7%
Bachelor's degree 11,366 20.3% 3.1%
Graduate degree 4,626 8.2% -1.9%
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 Blue Earth County

How much people earn in Blue Earth County

The average annual household income in Blue Earth County was $93,438 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,477, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Blue Earth County
$93,438/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Blue Earth County
$74,477/year
2.5% year-over-year change

Blue Earth County income by age

In Blue Earth County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $89,370. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $97,967 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,734, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,404 in earnings. Overall, 84.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,734 20.2%
25 - 44 $89,370 5.3%
45 - 64 $97,967 6.5%
Over 65 $60,404 -5.0%
Above poverty level
55,061
Below poverty level
10,194
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 55,061 84.4% 1.5%
Below poverty level 10,194 15.6% -2.8%

Employment in Blue Earth County

Workforce and job types in Blue Earth County

The job market in Blue Earth County is powered by 38,013 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 67.7% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
38,013
-0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
28,655
Blue collar
9,358
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 28,655 75.4% -0.2%
Blue collar 9,358 24.6% 0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
67.7%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
11%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,565 6.8% -8.1%
Private companies 25,732 67.7% 1.1%
Governmental workers 5,529 14.6% -3.5%
Not for profit companies 4,187 11% 2.4%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
17.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Blue Earth County stands at 4.9%, 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 Blue Earth County

How people get around in Blue Earth County

Commuting methods vary: 86.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 31,846 86.2% 0.4%
Taxicab 96 0.3% -8.6%
Bus or trolleybus 436 1.2% -32.5%
Subway or elevated 37 0.1% N/A
Ferryboat 3 0% N/A
Motorcycle 44 0.1% 18.9%
Bicycle 123 0.3% 36.7%
Walk 1,095 3% -0.5%
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 Blue Earth County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56001 51,585 20,350 $69,531 $89,953
56010 1,159 489 $80,156 $92,425
56024 3,647 1,330 $95,357 $97,138
56034 393 166 $98,750 $104,605
56037 1,374 624 $78,750 $104,782
56048 4,025 1,564 $85,532 $103,091
56055 3,898 1,645 $90,987 $98,194
56062 3,234 1,157 $76,713 $98,015
56063 3,221 1,310 $102,391 $139,900
56065 2,766 1,015 $92,933 $99,800

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FAQs about Blue Earth County demographics 

What is the total population of Blue Earth County?

Blue Earth County has a total population of 69,871 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Blue Earth County?

The gender ratio in Blue Earth County is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (35,475 residents)
  • 49.2% females (34,396 residents)

What is the median age in Blue Earth County?

The median age in Blue Earth County is 31.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Blue Earth County?

The age distribution in Blue Earth County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.3% (11,366 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 25.2% (17,624 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.1% (16,857 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.1% (13,368 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.2% (10,656 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Blue Earth County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Blue Earth County is as follows:
  • White: 85.4% (59,639 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.8% (3,360 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (192 residents)
  • Asian: 2.3% (1,621 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (4,017 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (1,042 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.2% of the population in Blue Earth County.

How many housing units are there in Blue Earth County?

There are 29,864 housing units in Blue Earth County, reflecting a +1.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Blue Earth County has a total of 27,606 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Blue Earth County?

Blue Earth County has a median household income of $74,477, representing a +2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.1% in Blue Earth County, with a workforce of 38,013 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.4% (28,655 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.6% (9,358 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (2,565 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.7% (25,732 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (5,529 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11% (4,187 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