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

Total population
445,771
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$106,318/yr
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
178,879
1.4% year-over-year change

Dakota County population

How many people live in Dakota County

Dakota County is home to 445,771 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Dakota County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
445,771
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
221,064
Female
50.4%
224,707
Value Percent YoY change
Male 221,064 49.6% 0.7%
Female 224,707 50.4% 0.9%
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 Dakota County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.6% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27% of the population, while another 25.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.6%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
27%
45 to 64
25.4%
Over 65
15.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 87,543 19.6% -0.4%
15 to 24 53,792 12.1% 1.1%
25 to 44 120,285 27% 1.1%
45 to 64 113,364 25.4% -0.8%
Over 65 70,787 15.9% 4.2%
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 Dakota County, 88.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.3% of locals are Caucasian, 7.8% are African American and 5.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.2%
Non-citizens
4.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 395,144 88.6% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 32,250 7.2% 7.1%
Non-citizens 18,377 4.1% 4.7%
Racial breakdown
White
74.3%
Black or African American
7.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
5.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8%
Other
4.2%
Value Percent
White 331,321 74.3%
Black or African American 34,647 7.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,944 0.4%
Asian 23,217 5.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 168 0%
Two or more races 35,855 8%
Other 18,619 4.2%

Households in Dakota County

A peek inside Dakota County households

Dakota County has 174,362 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67.4% are families, while the remaining 32.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
174,362
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
56,859
Family households
117,503
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 56,859 32.6% 3.3%
Family households 117,503 67.4% 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 Dakota County

The housing landscape of Dakota County

Dakota County's housing consists of 178,879 units, with 58.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 17.4% 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 1.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
178,879
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 103,899 58.1%
1 unit, attached 31,202 17.4%
2 units 1,432 0.8%
3 or 4 units 3,853 2.2%
5 to 9 units 3,093 1.7%
10 to 19 units 4,108 2.3%
20 to 49 units 8,060 4.5%
50 or more units 20,130 11.2%
Mobile home 2,915 1.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 187 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
4,242
96.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dakota County

In Dakota County, the median construction year is 1988. About 4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 7,237 4% 5.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,200 1.8% -3.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,300 5.2% 0.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 14,834 8.3% -1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 27,578 15.4% -0.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 34,042 19% -0.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 33,994 19% -3.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 27,801 15.5% 3.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 16,651 9.3% 4.0%
Built in 2020 or later 4,242 2.4% 96.6%
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.

Dakota County occupancy rates

Out of the 174,362 occupied housing units in Dakota County, 74.9% are owner-occupied, while 25.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
174,362
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
43,687
Owner occupied
130,675
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 43,687 25.1% 3.3%
Owner occupied 130,675 74.9% 1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
2.5%
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.

Dakota County housing costs

Housing costs in Dakota County come to a median of $1,643 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,548.

Median housing costs per month
$1,643/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 Dakota County
$1,548/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 Dakota County

Dakota County education at a glance

About 24.4% of the population in Dakota County went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 11.1% earned an associate degree and 28.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 6,591 1.9% 6.0%
High school diploma 82,559 24.4% 0.5%
College diploma 68,487 20.2% -0.8%
Associate degree 37,725 11.1% 0.5%
Bachelor's degree 97,848 28.9% 1.9%
Graduate degree 45,738 13.5% 3.2%
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 Dakota County

How much people earn in Dakota County

The average annual household income in Dakota County was $131,262 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $106,318, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dakota County
$131,262/year
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dakota County
$106,318/year
1.1% year-over-year change

Dakota County income by age

In Dakota County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $117,213. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $131,940 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $71,218, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $69,739 in earnings. Overall, 94.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $71,218 1.8%
25 - 44 $117,213 2.2%
45 - 64 $131,940 0.1%
Over 65 $69,739 1.8%
Above poverty level
412,506
Below poverty level
25,597
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 412,506 94.2% 0.6%
Below poverty level 25,597 5.8% 5.8%

Employment in Dakota County

Workforce and job types in Dakota County

The job market in Dakota County is powered by 239,967 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.2% run their own businesses, 68.5% are employed by private companies, and 12.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
239,967
0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
197,054
Blue collar
42,913
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 197,054 82.1% 0.8%
Blue collar 42,913 17.9% -2.3%
Employer type
Self employees
8.2%
Private companies
68.5%
Governmental workers
12.9%
Not for profit companies
10.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 19,547 8.2% 5.1%
Private companies 164,303 68.5% -0.7%
Governmental workers 30,855 12.9% -0.5%
Not for profit companies 25,262 10.5% 4.2%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
-0.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dakota County stands at 3.6%, 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 Dakota County

How people get around in Dakota County

In Dakota County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 75.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
-2.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 177,562 75.1% -2.2%
Taxicab 558 0.2% 64.1%
Bus or trolleybus 2,620 1.1% -25.7%
Subway or elevated 6 0% N/A
Railroad 32 0% 6.7%
Ferryboat 17 0% -37.0%
Motorcycle 173 0.1% -1.1%
Bicycle 453 0.2% 3.7%
Walk 2,635 1.1% -13.3%
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 Dakota County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
55009 8,127 3,287 $91,295 $107,426
55024 37,287 12,760 $127,280 $141,206
55031 1,881 731 $114,338 $128,137
55033 29,674 11,708 $103,988 $118,889
55044 64,762 22,460 $141,551 $171,606
55057 25,650 8,113 $92,622 $114,620
55065 1,224 418 $119,667 $137,001
55068 33,119 11,862 $127,798 $157,006
55075 20,714 8,467 $88,386 $96,523
55076 21,374 9,552 $93,847 $116,325

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FAQs about Dakota County demographics 

What is the total population of Dakota County?

Dakota County has a total population of 445,771 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dakota County?

The gender ratio in Dakota County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (221,064 residents)
  • 50.4% females (224,707 residents)

What is the median age in Dakota County?

The median age in Dakota County is 38.6.

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

The age distribution in Dakota County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.6% (87,543 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (53,792 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27% (120,285 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.4% (113,364 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.9% (70,787 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dakota County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dakota County is as follows:
  • White: 74.3% (331,321 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.8% (34,647 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (1,944 residents)
  • Asian: 5.2% (23,217 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (168 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8% (35,855 residents)
  • Other: 4.2% (18,619 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.6% of the population in Dakota County.

How many housing units are there in Dakota County?

There are 178,879 housing units in Dakota County, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Dakota County has a total of 174,362 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dakota County?

Dakota County has a median household income of $106,318, representing a +1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in Dakota County, with a workforce of 239,967 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.1% (197,054 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.9% (42,913 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.2% (19,547 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.5% (164,303 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.9% (30,855 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.5% (25,262 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