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

Total population
12,377
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$71,458/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,661
0.2% year-over-year change

Chippewa County population

How many people live in Chippewa County

Chippewa County is home to 12,377 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Chippewa County locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
12,377
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
6,212
Female
49.8%
6,165
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,212 50.2% 0.8%
Female 6,165 49.8% -1.0%
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 Chippewa County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.4% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.5% of the population, while another 22.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.4%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
23.5%
45 to 64
22.9%
Over 65
21.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,520 20.4% 3.2%
15 to 24 1,457 11.8% 0.6%
25 to 44 2,912 23.5% -0.2%
45 to 64 2,830 22.9% -3.4%
Over 65 2,658 21.5% 0.3%
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 Chippewa County, 92.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.3% of locals are Caucasian, 0.5% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. Another 1.4% are Indigenous American, 2.5% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.9%
Non-citizens
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,452 92.5% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 236 1.9% 18.0%
Non-citizens 689 5.6% 2.1%
Racial breakdown
White
83.3%
Black or African American
0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
2.5%
Two or more races
5.1%
Other
5.8%
Value Percent
White 10,309 83.3%
Black or African American 66 0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 173 1.4%
Asian 182 1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 307 2.5%
Two or more races 627 5.1%
Other 713 5.8%

Households in Chippewa County

A peek inside Chippewa County households

Chippewa County has 5,126 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.4% are families, while the remaining 37.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,126
-1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,926
Family households
3,200
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,926 37.6% -7.4%
Family households 3,200 62.4% 2.7%
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 Chippewa County

The housing landscape of Chippewa County

Chippewa County's housing consists of 5,661 units, with 78.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.6% 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 2.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,661
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,453 78.7%
1 unit, attached 91 1.6%
2 units 48 0.8%
3 or 4 units 159 2.8%
5 to 9 units 107 1.9%
10 to 19 units 189 3.3%
20 to 49 units 237 4.2%
50 or more units 235 4.2%
Mobile home 142 2.5%
Homes built since 2020
11
10.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Chippewa County

In Chippewa County, the median construction year is 1957. About 30.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,748 30.9% -1.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 417 7.4% 0.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 892 15.8% 4.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 388 6.8% -4.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,134 20% 15.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 354 6.2% -6.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 337 6% -22.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 208 3.7% -19.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 172 3% 28.4%
Built in 2020 or later 11 0.2% 10.0%
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.

Chippewa County occupancy rates

Out of the 5,126 occupied housing units in Chippewa County, 72.3% are owner-occupied, while 27.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,126
-1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,420
Owner occupied
3,706
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,420 27.7% -4.3%
Owner occupied 3,706 72.3% -0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
9.5%
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.

Chippewa County housing costs

Housing costs in Chippewa County come to a median of $910 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $869.

Median housing costs per month
$910/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 Chippewa County
$869/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 Chippewa County

Chippewa County education at a glance

About 41.4% of the population in Chippewa County went to high school, while 19.8% pursued college studies. Another 16% earned an associate degree and 13.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 334 3.6% -10.9%
High school diploma 3,880 41.4% 1.4%
College diploma 1,858 19.8% -1.8%
Associate degree 1,500 16% 1.1%
Bachelor's degree 1,287 13.8% -5.0%
Graduate degree 504 5.4% -6.2%
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 Chippewa County

How much people earn in Chippewa County

The average annual household income in Chippewa County was $86,160 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $71,458, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Chippewa County
$86,160/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Chippewa County
$71,458/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Chippewa County income by age

In Chippewa County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,155. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,778 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,083, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,000 in earnings. Overall, 85.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,083 -7.9%
25 - 44 $83,155 3.5%
45 - 64 $76,778 -4.8%
Over 65 $56,000 7.7%
Above poverty level
10,194
Below poverty level
1,743
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 10,194 85.4% -0.2%
Below poverty level 1,743 14.6% 0.6%

Employment in Chippewa County

Workforce and job types in Chippewa County

The job market in Chippewa County is powered by 5,870 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.9% run their own businesses, 56.6% are employed by private companies, and 20.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,870
-1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
4,153
Blue collar
1,717
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,153 70.8% -0.2%
Blue collar 1,717 29.2% -3.2%
Employer type
Self employees
12.9%
Private companies
56.6%
Governmental workers
20.1%
Not for profit companies
10.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 759 12.9% 2.1%
Private companies 3,322 56.6% -3.1%
Governmental workers 1,179 20.1% -0.2%
Not for profit companies 610 10.4% 5.2%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
-1.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Chippewa County stands at 4.4%, 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 Chippewa County

How people get around in Chippewa County

Commuting methods vary: 89.4% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,054 89.4% 0.0%
Ferryboat 5 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 9 0.2% 125.0%
Walk 85 1.5% -47.2%
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 Chippewa County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56222 1,972 748 $71,429 $89,164
56241 3,933 1,770 $66,875 $97,828
56252 1,310 542 $82,571 $94,834
56260 913 413 $75,750 $89,868
56262 871 308 $70,625 $113,792
56265 7,225 3,038 $74,848 $83,570
56271 1,334 515 $64,861 $85,098
56282 1,471 608 $69,896 $90,561
56295 305 136 $44,167 $76,346

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FAQs about Chippewa County demographics 

What is the total population of Chippewa County?

Chippewa County has a total population of 12,377 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 Chippewa County?

The gender ratio in Chippewa County is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (6,212 residents)
  • 49.8% females (6,165 residents)

What is the median age in Chippewa County?

The median age in Chippewa County is 41.7.

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

The age distribution in Chippewa County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.4% (2,520 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (1,457 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.5% (2,912 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.9% (2,830 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.5% (2,658 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Chippewa County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Chippewa County is as follows:
  • White: 83.3% (10,309 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.5% (66 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (173 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (182 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 2.5% (307 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.1% (627 residents)
  • Other: 5.8% (713 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.5% of the population in Chippewa County.

How many housing units are there in Chippewa County?

There are 5,661 housing units in Chippewa 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 Chippewa County and what is the average household size?

Chippewa County has a total of 5,126 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Chippewa County?

Chippewa County has a median household income of $71,458, representing a +3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Chippewa County, with a workforce of 5,870 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.8% (4,153 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.2% (1,717 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.9% (759 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.6% (3,322 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.1% (1,179 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.4% (610 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