Detroit Lakes, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,025
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,958/yr
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,137
0.6% year-over-year change

Detroit Lakes population

How many people live in Detroit Lakes

Detroit Lakes is home to 10,025 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Detroit Lakes locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
10,025
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
4,901
Female
51.1%
5,124
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,901 48.9% -2.1%
Female 5,124 51.1% 2.5%
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 Detroit Lakes is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 10.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 21.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
10.9%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
21.2%
Over 65
25.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,840 18.4% -0.5%
15 to 24 1,089 10.9% -10.5%
25 to 44 2,429 24.2% 3.7%
45 to 64 2,128 21.2% 0.2%
Over 65 2,539 25.3% 2.8%
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 Detroit Lakes, 97% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,724 97% -1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 211 2.1% 106.9%
Non-citizens 90 0.9% 87.5%
Racial breakdown
White
88%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
4%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.7%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 8,826 88%
Black or African American 161 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 400 4%
Asian 31 0.3%
Two or more races 573 5.7%
Other 34 0.3%

Households in Detroit Lakes

A peek inside Detroit Lakes households

Detroit Lakes has 4,455 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 52% are families, while the remaining 48% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,455
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,140
Family households
2,315
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,140 48% -2.1%
Family households 2,315 52% 0.7%
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 Detroit Lakes

The housing landscape of Detroit Lakes

Detroit Lakes's housing consists of 5,137 units, with 60.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.4% 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 2.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,137
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,111 60.6%
1 unit, attached 329 6.4%
2 units 89 1.7%
3 or 4 units 60 1.2%
5 to 9 units 225 4.4%
10 to 19 units 475 9.2%
20 to 49 units 496 9.7%
50 or more units 239 4.6%
Mobile home 113 2.2%
Homes built since 2020
64
220.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Detroit Lakes

In Detroit Lakes, the median construction year is 1979. About 15.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.9% 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 806 15.7% 17.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 322 6.3% -23.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 485 9.4% -2.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 374 7.3% -18.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 635 12.4% 5.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 394 7.7% -12.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 648 12.6% 3.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 747 14.5% -11.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 662 12.9% 31.6%
Built in 2020 or later 64 1.2% 220.0%
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.

Detroit Lakes occupancy rates

Out of the 4,455 occupied housing units in Detroit Lakes, 56.1% are owner-occupied, while 43.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,455
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,954
Owner occupied
2,501
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,954 43.9% 7.7%
Owner occupied 2,501 56.1% -6.4%
Unoccupied housing units
13.3%
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.

Detroit Lakes housing costs

Housing costs in Detroit Lakes come to a median of $1,076 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $954.

Median housing costs per month
$1,076/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 Detroit Lakes
$954/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 Detroit Lakes

Detroit Lakes education at a glance

About 33.4% of the population in Detroit Lakes went to high school, while 21.6% pursued college studies. Another 12.2% earned an associate degree and 19.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 215 2.7% -2.7%
High school diploma 2,619 33.4% -2.1%
College diploma 1,693 21.6% 0.9%
Associate degree 961 12.2% 4.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,544 19.7% 2.4%
Graduate degree 812 10.4% 3.0%
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 Detroit Lakes

How much people earn in Detroit Lakes

The average annual household income in Detroit Lakes was $101,055 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,958, reflecting a +1.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Detroit Lakes
$101,055/year
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Detroit Lakes
$62,958/year
1.3% year-over-year change

Detroit Lakes income by age

In Detroit Lakes, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,888. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,667 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,205, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,375 in earnings. Overall, 83.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,205 19.3%
25 - 44 $68,888 -5.7%
45 - 64 $61,667 4.3%
Over 65 $60,375 0.3%
Above poverty level
7,864
Below poverty level
1,573
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,864 83.3% -6.9%
Below poverty level 1,573 16.7% 65.9%

Average renter income in Detroit Lakes

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Detroit Lakes, their median household income was $32,865 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$32,865
Rent-to-income ratio
34.8%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Detroit Lakes

Workforce and job types in Detroit Lakes

The job market in Detroit Lakes is powered by 4,513 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14% run their own businesses, 58.7% are employed by private companies, and 13.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,513
-1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
3,359
Blue collar
1,154
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,359 74.4% -3.2%
Blue collar 1,154 25.6% 6.0%
Employer type
Self employees
14%
Private companies
58.7%
Governmental workers
13.4%
Not for profit companies
13.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 630 14% 25.5%
Private companies 2,649 58.7% -1.6%
Governmental workers 607 13.4% -14.4%
Not for profit companies 627 13.9% -4.6%
Unemployment rate
6.8%
39.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Detroit Lakes stands at 6.8%, 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 Detroit Lakes

How people get around in Detroit Lakes

In Detroit Lakes, the average commute time is 14 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
14 min
0.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,912 87.6% 2.2%
Taxicab 5 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 38 0.8% -50.6%
Motorcycle 14 0.3% 27.3%
Walk 180 4% -40.6%
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 Detroit Lakes by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56501 18,004 7,701 $70,037 $103,988

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FAQs about Detroit Lakes demographics 

What is the total population of Detroit Lakes?

Detroit Lakes has a total population of 10,025 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 Detroit Lakes?

The gender ratio in Detroit Lakes is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (4,901 residents)
  • 51.1% females (5,124 residents)

What is the median age in Detroit Lakes?

The median age in Detroit Lakes is 41.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Detroit Lakes?

The age distribution in Detroit Lakes is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (1,840 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.9% (1,089 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (2,429 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.2% (2,128 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.3% (2,539 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Detroit Lakes?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Detroit Lakes is as follows:
  • White: 88% (8,826 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (161 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 4% (400 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (31 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.7% (573 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (34 residents)

What percentage of the population in Detroit Lakes are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 97% of the population in Detroit Lakes.

How many housing units are there in Detroit Lakes?

There are 5,137 housing units in Detroit Lakes, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Detroit Lakes and what is the average household size?

Detroit Lakes has a total of 4,455 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Detroit Lakes?

Detroit Lakes has a median household income of $62,958, representing a +1.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Detroit Lakes?

The employment rate is 93.2% in Detroit Lakes, with a workforce of 4,513 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.4% (3,359 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.6% (1,154 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14% (630 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.7% (2,649 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.4% (607 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.9% (627 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