Brown County, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
25,800
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,378/yr
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,827
0.2% year-over-year change

Brown County population

How many people live in Brown County

Brown County is home to 25,800 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Brown County locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
25,800
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
12,949
Female
49.8%
12,851
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,949 50.2% 0.2%
Female 12,851 49.8% -0.4%
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 Brown County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18% are children under 15, then 12.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.5% of the population, while another 24.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
42
Age breakdown
Under 15
18%
15 to 24
12.9%
25 to 44
22.5%
45 to 64
24.3%
Over 65
22.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,658 18% -1.3%
15 to 24 3,326 12.9% -0.9%
25 to 44 5,811 22.5% 2.2%
45 to 64 6,275 24.3% -2.6%
Over 65 5,730 22.2% 1.8%
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 Brown County, 96.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.7% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
1.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 24,962 96.8% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 549 2.1% 12.3%
Non-citizens 289 1.1% -19.3%
Racial breakdown
White
92.7%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.7%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 23,916 92.7%
Black or African American 249 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 72 0.3%
Asian 132 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0%
Two or more races 965 3.7%
Other 462 1.8%

Households in Brown County

A peek inside Brown County households

Brown County has 11,027 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61% are families, while the remaining 39% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,027
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,301
Family households
6,726
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,301 39% 7.9%
Family households 6,726 61% -3.4%
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 Brown County

The housing landscape of Brown County

Brown County's housing consists of 11,827 units, with 80.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.1% 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 3.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,827
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,526 80.5%
1 unit, attached 249 2.1%
2 units 243 2%
3 or 4 units 210 1.8%
5 to 9 units 302 2.6%
10 to 19 units 190 1.6%
20 to 49 units 398 3.4%
50 or more units 342 2.9%
Mobile home 367 3.1%
Homes built since 2020
58
9.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Brown County

In Brown County, the median construction year is 1963. About 30.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,561 30.1% -2.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 819 6.9% -0.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,243 10.5% -7.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,024 8.7% 20.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,676 14.2% 6.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 910 7.7% -2.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,111 9.4% 6.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 797 6.7% -10.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 628 5.3% 1.4%
Built in 2020 or later 58 0.5% 9.4%
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.

Brown County occupancy rates

Out of the 11,027 occupied housing units in Brown County, 78.9% are owner-occupied, while 21.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,027
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,327
Owner occupied
8,700
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,327 21.1% 3.4%
Owner occupied 8,700 78.9% 0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
6.8%
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.

Brown County housing costs

Housing costs in Brown County come to a median of $935 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $890.

Median housing costs per month
$935/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 Brown County
$890/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 Brown County

Brown County education at a glance

About 40.2% of the population in Brown County went to high school, while 22.2% pursued college studies. Another 12.1% earned an associate degree and 15.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 579 2.9% 14.7%
High school diploma 8,106 40.2% -1.6%
College diploma 4,479 22.2% -2.4%
Associate degree 2,439 12.1% 5.1%
Bachelor's degree 3,135 15.6% -0.3%
Graduate degree 1,423 7.1% 5.8%
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 Brown County

How much people earn in Brown County

The average annual household income in Brown County was $86,644 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,378, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Brown County
$86,644/year
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Brown County
$69,378/year
1.0% year-over-year change

Brown County income by age

In Brown County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,604. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $85,219 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $56,000, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,504 in earnings. Overall, 91.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $56,000 2.0%
25 - 44 $80,604 0.0%
45 - 64 $85,219 1.2%
Over 65 $50,504 -1.5%
Above poverty level
22,423
Below poverty level
2,087
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 22,423 91.5% -0.8%
Below poverty level 2,087 8.5% 10.1%

Employment in Brown County

Workforce and job types in Brown County

The job market in Brown County is powered by 13,200 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.7% run their own businesses, 63.2% are employed by private companies, and 12.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,200
-0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
9,386
Blue collar
3,814
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,386 71.1% 0.1%
Blue collar 3,814 28.9% -3.2%
Employer type
Self employees
12.7%
Private companies
63.2%
Governmental workers
12.6%
Not for profit companies
11.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,682 12.7% 3.8%
Private companies 8,347 63.2% -2.7%
Governmental workers 1,663 12.6% 9.9%
Not for profit companies 1,508 11.4% -6.5%
Unemployment rate
2.9%
12.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Brown County stands at 2.9%, 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 Brown County

How people get around in Brown County

In Brown County, the average commute time is 15 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
15 min
-4.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 11,280 86.6% -1.5%
Taxicab 1 0% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 51 0.4% -39.3%
Motorcycle 16 0.1% -5.9%
Bicycle 28 0.2% -3.5%
Walk 628 4.8% 16.1%
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 Brown County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56019 795 364 $65,833 $77,124
56041 1,039 440 $80,833 $98,785
56073 17,339 7,344 $70,250 $88,435
56083 741 338 $69,167 $78,463
56085 5,047 2,120 $73,000 $93,737
56087 3,105 1,273 $64,375 $79,872
56266 1,583 630 $74,000 $86,854

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FAQs about Brown County demographics 

What is the total population of Brown County?

Brown County has a total population of 25,800 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Brown County?

The gender ratio in Brown County is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (12,949 residents)
  • 49.8% females (12,851 residents)

What is the median age in Brown County?

The median age in Brown County is 42.

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

The age distribution in Brown County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18% (4,658 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.9% (3,326 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.5% (5,811 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.3% (6,275 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.2% (5,730 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Brown County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Brown County is as follows:
  • White: 92.7% (23,916 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (249 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (72 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (132 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.7% (965 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (462 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.8% of the population in Brown County.

How many housing units are there in Brown County?

There are 11,827 housing units in Brown County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Brown County has a total of 11,027 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Brown County?

Brown County has a median household income of $69,378, representing a +1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.1% in Brown County, with a workforce of 13,200 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.1% (9,386 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.9% (3,814 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.7% (1,682 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.2% (8,347 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.6% (1,663 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.4% (1,508 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