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

Total population
36,518
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$80,573/yr
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,896
0.4% year-over-year change

Carlton County population

How many people live in Carlton County

Carlton County is home to 36,518 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53.4% of Carlton County locals are male, and 46.6% are female.

Total population
36,518
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53.4%
19,493
Female
46.6%
17,025
Value Percent YoY change
Male 19,493 53.4% 1.0%
Female 17,025 46.6% -0.7%
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 Carlton County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.4% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26% of the population, while another 26.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.4%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
26%
45 to 64
26.7%
Over 65
18.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,353 17.4% -2.3%
15 to 24 4,139 11.3% -0.1%
25 to 44 9,489 26% 2.4%
45 to 64 9,763 26.7% -1.4%
Over 65 6,774 18.6% 2.1%
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 Carlton County, 97.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.5% of locals are Caucasian, 2.2% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
1.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 35,662 97.7% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 442 1.2% 16.3%
Non-citizens 414 1.1% 48.9%
Racial breakdown
White
87.5%
Black or African American
2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.3%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 31,966 87.5%
Black or African American 789 2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,220 3.3%
Asian 196 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 13 0%
Two or more races 2,128 5.8%
Other 206 0.6%

Households in Carlton County

A peek inside Carlton County households

Carlton County has 14,090 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.2% are families, while the remaining 32.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,090
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,616
Family households
9,474
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,616 32.8% -1.6%
Family households 9,474 67.2% 2.1%
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 Carlton County

The housing landscape of Carlton County

Carlton County's housing consists of 15,896 units, with 80.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,896
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,770 80.3%
1 unit, attached 356 2.2%
2 units 173 1.1%
3 or 4 units 246 1.6%
5 to 9 units 236 1.5%
10 to 19 units 372 2.3%
20 to 49 units 536 3.4%
50 or more units 233 1.5%
Mobile home 958 6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 16 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
193
116.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Carlton County

In Carlton County, the median construction year is 1975. About 18.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 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, 7.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,982 18.8% 3.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 958 6% 6.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,557 9.8% -14.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,320 8.3% -2.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,132 13.4% -8.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,404 8.8% 15.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,857 11.7% -8.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,356 14.8% 1.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,137 7.2% 30.4%
Built in 2020 or later 193 1.2% 116.8%
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.

Carlton County occupancy rates

Out of the 14,090 occupied housing units in Carlton County, 80% are owner-occupied, while 20% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,090
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,817
Owner occupied
11,273
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,817 20% -2.4%
Owner occupied 11,273 80% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
11.4%
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.

Carlton County housing costs

Housing costs in Carlton County come to a median of $1,218 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,009.

Median housing costs per month
$1,218/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 Carlton County
$1,009/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 Carlton County

Carlton County education at a glance

About 36.3% of the population in Carlton County went to high school, while 22.1% pursued college studies. Another 14.2% earned an associate degree and 16.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 750 2.6% -1.6%
High school diploma 10,407 36.3% -0.2%
College diploma 6,340 22.1% -3.8%
Associate degree 4,058 14.2% 4.3%
Bachelor's degree 4,704 16.4% 2.1%
Graduate degree 2,393 8.4% 10.7%
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 Carlton County

How much people earn in Carlton County

The average annual household income in Carlton County was $99,202 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $80,573, reflecting a +0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Carlton County
$99,202/year
3.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Carlton County
$80,573/year
0.7% year-over-year change

Carlton County income by age

In Carlton County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $95,546. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $96,159 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $63,130, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,569 in earnings. Overall, 88.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $63,130 2.7%
25 - 44 $95,546 0.6%
45 - 64 $96,159 2.2%
Over 65 $52,569 2.9%
Above poverty level
30,350
Below poverty level
4,046
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,350 88.2% -0.8%
Below poverty level 4,046 11.8% 6.7%

Employment in Carlton County

Workforce and job types in Carlton County

The job market in Carlton County is powered by 16,644 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.6% run their own businesses, 58.3% are employed by private companies, and 19.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,644
-1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
12,341
Blue collar
4,303
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,341 74.2% -1.5%
Blue collar 4,303 25.8% -2.1%
Employer type
Self employees
8.6%
Private companies
58.3%
Governmental workers
19.8%
Not for profit companies
13.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,434 8.6% 15.8%
Private companies 9,709 58.3% -2.3%
Governmental workers 3,302 19.8% -7.1%
Not for profit companies 2,199 13.2% 0.3%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
17.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Carlton County stands at 4.8%, 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 Carlton County

How people get around in Carlton County

Commuting methods vary: 86.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% 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 14,242 86.7% -2.8%
Taxicab 43 0.3% 760.0%
Bus or trolleybus 20 0.1% -48.7%
Motorcycle 1 0% -66.7%
Bicycle 50 0.3% -18.0%
Walk 321 2% 3.2%
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 Carlton County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
55780 277 89 $76,042 $80,503
55787 621 264 $66,111 $80,482
55707 3,470 1,376 $82,167 $95,165
55718 3,111 1,201 $96,546 $108,267
55720 17,448 7,154 $64,167 $87,785
55726 1,087 419 $80,313 $84,493
55733 5,139 1,953 $118,260 $138,833
55749 532 268 $77,500 $76,312
55757 739 348 $61,538 $71,617
55767 4,582 1,061 $78,988 $96,928

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FAQs about Carlton County demographics 

What is the total population of Carlton County?

Carlton County has a total population of 36,518 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Carlton County?

The gender ratio in Carlton County is as follows:
  • 53.4% males (19,493 residents)
  • 46.6% females (17,025 residents)

What is the median age in Carlton County?

The median age in Carlton County is 41.4.

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

The age distribution in Carlton County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.4% (6,353 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (4,139 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26% (9,489 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.7% (9,763 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.6% (6,774 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Carlton County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Carlton County is as follows:
  • White: 87.5% (31,966 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.2% (789 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.3% (1,220 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (196 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (13 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (2,128 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (206 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.7% of the population in Carlton County.

How many housing units are there in Carlton County?

There are 15,896 housing units in Carlton County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Carlton County has a total of 14,090 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Carlton County?

Carlton County has a median household income of $80,573, representing a +0.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.2% in Carlton County, with a workforce of 16,644 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.2% (12,341 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.8% (4,303 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.6% (1,434 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.3% (9,709 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.8% (3,302 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.2% (2,199 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