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

Total population
8,616
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$64,475/yr
-0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,468
0.4% year-over-year change

Clearwater County population

How many people live in Clearwater County

Clearwater County is home to 8,616 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.9% of Clearwater County locals are male, and 49.1% are female.

Total population
8,616
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.9%
4,384
Female
49.1%
4,232
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,384 50.9% 0.4%
Female 4,232 49.1% 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 Clearwater County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.4% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.4% of the population, while another 24.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.4%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
22.4%
45 to 64
24.5%
Over 65
21.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,761 20.4% 0.6%
15 to 24 988 11.5% 0.0%
25 to 44 1,926 22.4% 1.5%
45 to 64 2,111 24.5% -1.8%
Over 65 1,830 21.2% 2.0%
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 Clearwater County, 98.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.9% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,474 98.4% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 122 1.4% 5.2%
Non-citizens 20 0.2% -41.2%
Racial breakdown
White
83.9%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
6.8%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.9%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 7,229 83.9%
Black or African American 14 0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 585 6.8%
Asian 69 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0%
Two or more races 681 7.9%
Other 34 0.4%

Households in Clearwater County

A peek inside Clearwater County households

Clearwater County has 3,339 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.9% are families, while the remaining 35.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,339
2.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,173
Family households
2,166
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,173 35.1% 6.0%
Family households 2,166 64.9% 1.3%
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 Clearwater County

The housing landscape of Clearwater County

Clearwater County's housing consists of 4,468 units, with 78.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.7% 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 13% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,468
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,505 78.4%
1 unit, attached 31 0.7%
2 units 18 0.4%
3 or 4 units 47 1%
5 to 9 units 64 1.4%
10 to 19 units 59 1.3%
20 to 49 units 144 3.2%
50 or more units 19 0.4%
Mobile home 580 13%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
45
125.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Clearwater County

In Clearwater County, the median construction year is 1980. About 13.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% 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, 8.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 596 13.3% -5.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 260 5.8% 16.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 255 5.7% -10.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 336 7.5% -6.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 794 17.8% 9.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 559 12.5% 1.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 567 12.7% -10.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 695 15.6% 5.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 361 8.1% 0.8%
Built in 2020 or later 45 1% 125.0%
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.

Clearwater County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,339 occupied housing units in Clearwater County, 80.1% are owner-occupied, while 19.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 25.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,339
2.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
663
Owner occupied
2,676
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 663 19.9% 8.3%
Owner occupied 2,676 80.1% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
25.3%
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.

Clearwater County housing costs

Housing costs in Clearwater County come to a median of $858 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $742.

Median housing costs per month
$858/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 Clearwater County
$742/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 Clearwater County

Clearwater County education at a glance

About 47.6% of the population in Clearwater County went to high school, while 20.9% pursued college studies. Another 10.1% earned an associate degree and 13% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 204 3.2% 1.5%
High school diploma 3,071 47.6% -0.2%
College diploma 1,350 20.9% -1.8%
Associate degree 654 10.1% -5.3%
Bachelor's degree 838 13% 7.4%
Graduate degree 341 5.3% 9.7%
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 Clearwater County

How much people earn in Clearwater County

The average annual household income in Clearwater County was $82,836 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $64,475, reflecting a -0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Clearwater County
$82,836/year
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Clearwater County
$64,475/year
-0.7% year-over-year change

Clearwater County income by age

In Clearwater County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $88,472. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,000 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $72,679, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,825 in earnings. Overall, 87.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $72,679 32.5%
25 - 44 $88,472 1.3%
45 - 64 $75,000 -0.4%
Over 65 $42,825 -2.4%
Above poverty level
7,281
Below poverty level
1,046
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,281 87.4% -1.4%
Below poverty level 1,046 12.6% 13.1%

Employment in Clearwater County

Workforce and job types in Clearwater County

The job market in Clearwater County is powered by 3,574 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.2% run their own businesses, 56.8% are employed by private companies, and 17.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,574
-0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
2,403
Blue collar
1,171
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,403 67.2% -1.8%
Blue collar 1,171 32.8% 1.4%
Employer type
Self employees
12.2%
Private companies
56.8%
Governmental workers
17.8%
Not for profit companies
13.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 435 12.2% -2.9%
Private companies 2,030 56.8% -0.7%
Governmental workers 636 17.8% -2.9%
Not for profit companies 473 13.2% 4.0%
Unemployment rate
7.7%
3.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Clearwater County stands at 7.7%, 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 Clearwater County

How people get around in Clearwater County

Commuting methods vary: 86.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.2% 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 3,043 86.8% -0.3%
Taxicab 8 0.2% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 10 0.3% -37.5%
Ferryboat 3 0.1% -25.0%
Motorcycle 3 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 2 0.1% N/A
Walk 148 4.2% -3.9%
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 Clearwater County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56470 11,186 4,774 $67,500 $93,930
56644 830 342 $56,364 $83,475
56652 437 147 $64,583 $78,834
56671 2,961 881 $48,625 $59,875
56676 1,780 758 $74,167 $91,648
56557 2,758 965 $57,731 $72,549
56589 1,760 685 $72,969 $85,472
56621 4,336 1,746 $63,721 $79,056
56634 1,801 621 $64,886 $86,106

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FAQs about Clearwater County demographics 

What is the total population of Clearwater County?

Clearwater County has a total population of 8,616 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Clearwater County?

The gender ratio in Clearwater County is as follows:
  • 50.9% males (4,384 residents)
  • 49.1% females (4,232 residents)

What is the median age in Clearwater County?

The median age in Clearwater County is 41.6.

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

The age distribution in Clearwater County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.4% (1,761 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (988 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.4% (1,926 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.5% (2,111 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.2% (1,830 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Clearwater County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Clearwater County is as follows:
  • White: 83.9% (7,229 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (14 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 6.8% (585 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (69 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.9% (681 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (34 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.4% of the population in Clearwater County.

How many housing units are there in Clearwater County?

There are 4,468 housing units in Clearwater 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 Clearwater County and what is the average household size?

Clearwater County has a total of 3,339 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Clearwater County?

Clearwater County has a median household income of $64,475, 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 Clearwater County?

The employment rate is 92.3% in Clearwater County, with a workforce of 3,574 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.2% (2,403 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.8% (1,171 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.2% (435 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.8% (2,030 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.8% (636 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.2% (473 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