Fergus Falls, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
14,181
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,162/yr
10.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,072
1.2% year-over-year change

Fergus Falls population

How many people live in Fergus Falls

Fergus Falls is home to 14,181 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.6% of Fergus Falls locals are male, and 52.4% are female.

Total population
14,181
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.6%
6,749
Female
52.4%
7,432
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,749 47.6% 1.5%
Female 7,432 52.4% -0.8%
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 Fergus Falls is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.8% of the population, while another 22.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
23.8%
45 to 64
22.7%
Over 65
25.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,293 16.2% -10.2%
15 to 24 1,633 11.5% -0.6%
25 to 44 3,379 23.8% 0.3%
45 to 64 3,213 22.7% 0.1%
Over 65 3,663 25.8% 8.9%
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 Fergus Falls, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.1% of locals are Caucasian, 1.7% are African American and 1.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
0.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 13,744 96.9% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 369 2.6% 29.5%
Non-citizens 68 0.5% 23.6%
Racial breakdown
White
91.1%
Black or African American
1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
4.2%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 12,913 91.1%
Black or African American 244 1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 52 0.4%
Asian 258 1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 13 0.1%
Two or more races 596 4.2%
Other 105 0.7%

Households in Fergus Falls

A peek inside Fergus Falls households

Fergus Falls has 6,465 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 49% are families, while the remaining 51% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,465
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,295
Family households
3,170
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,295 51% 3.5%
Family households 3,170 49% -1.6%
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 Fergus Falls

The housing landscape of Fergus Falls

Fergus Falls's housing consists of 7,072 units, with 60.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.1% 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 3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,072
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,263 60.3%
1 unit, attached 290 4.1%
2 units 80 1.1%
3 or 4 units 412 5.8%
5 to 9 units 355 5%
10 to 19 units 278 3.9%
20 to 49 units 771 10.9%
50 or more units 402 5.7%
Mobile home 212 3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
27
92.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fergus Falls

In Fergus Falls, the median construction year is 1975. About 17.7% 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, 5.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,250 17.7% 13.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 428 6% -19.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 684 9.7% -22.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 612 8.6% -5.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,166 16.5% 13.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 980 13.9% 13.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 830 11.7% 7.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 408 5.8% -26.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 687 9.7% 15.7%
Built in 2020 or later 27 0.4% 92.9%
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.

Fergus Falls occupancy rates

Out of the 6,465 occupied housing units in Fergus Falls, 64.1% are owner-occupied, while 35.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,465
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,320
Owner occupied
4,145
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,320 35.9% -0.7%
Owner occupied 4,145 64.1% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
8.6%
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.

Fergus Falls housing costs

Housing costs in Fergus Falls come to a median of $905 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $911.

Median housing costs per month
$905/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 Fergus Falls
$911/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 Fergus Falls

Fergus Falls education at a glance

About 32.5% of the population in Fergus Falls went to high school, while 23.7% pursued college studies. Another 15.7% earned an associate degree and 17.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 165 1.4% 20.4%
High school diploma 3,706 32.5% 2.8%
College diploma 2,703 23.7% -3.0%
Associate degree 1,791 15.7% 0.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,972 17.3% 4.2%
Graduate degree 1,063 9.3% 14.2%
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 Fergus Falls

How much people earn in Fergus Falls

The average annual household income in Fergus Falls was $72,786 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 $56,162, reflecting a +10.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fergus Falls
$72,786/year
3.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fergus Falls
$56,162/year
10.4% year-over-year change

Fergus Falls income by age

In Fergus Falls, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,200. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $62,236 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,635, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,455 in earnings. Overall, 90.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,635 40.2%
25 - 44 $76,200 -1.8%
45 - 64 $62,236 19.1%
Over 65 $47,455 4.7%
Above poverty level
12,362
Below poverty level
1,239
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,362 90.9% 2.9%
Below poverty level 1,239 9.1% -15.1%

Average renter income in Fergus Falls

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fergus Falls, their median household income was $31,289 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$31,289
Rent-to-income ratio
34.9%
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 Fergus Falls

Workforce and job types in Fergus Falls

The job market in Fergus Falls is powered by 6,639 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11% run their own businesses, 59.4% are employed by private companies, and 13.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,639
2.2% year-over-year change
White collar
5,100
Blue collar
1,539
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,100 76.8% -1.2%
Blue collar 1,539 23.2% 15.4%
Employer type
Self employees
11%
Private companies
59.4%
Governmental workers
13.5%
Not for profit companies
16.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 730 11% 12.5%
Private companies 3,945 59.4% -5.0%
Governmental workers 897 13.5% 4.5%
Not for profit companies 1,067 16.1% 27.8%
Unemployment rate
7.2%
-1.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fergus Falls stands at 7.2%, 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 Fergus Falls

How people get around in Fergus Falls

In Fergus Falls, the average commute time is 13 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
13 min
0.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,570 84.6% 7.6%
Taxicab 4 0.1% 33.3%
Bus or trolleybus 175 2.7% 25.9%
Bicycle 77 1.2% -35.8%
Walk 254 3.9% -13.9%
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 Fergus Falls by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56537 19,856 8,515 $65,473 $85,089

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FAQs about Fergus Falls demographics 

What is the total population of Fergus Falls?

Fergus Falls has a total population of 14,181 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fergus Falls?

The gender ratio in Fergus Falls is as follows:
  • 47.6% males (6,749 residents)
  • 52.4% females (7,432 residents)

What is the median age in Fergus Falls?

The median age in Fergus Falls is 43.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fergus Falls?

The age distribution in Fergus Falls is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (2,293 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (1,633 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.8% (3,379 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.7% (3,213 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.8% (3,663 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fergus Falls?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fergus Falls is as follows:
  • White: 91.1% (12,913 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.7% (244 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (52 residents)
  • Asian: 1.8% (258 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (13 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.2% (596 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (105 residents)

What percentage of the population in Fergus Falls are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Fergus Falls.

How many housing units are there in Fergus Falls?

There are 7,072 housing units in Fergus Falls, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Fergus Falls and what is the average household size?

Fergus Falls has a total of 6,465 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fergus Falls?

Fergus Falls has a median household income of $56,162, representing a +10.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Fergus Falls?

The employment rate is 92.8% in Fergus Falls, with a workforce of 6,639 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.8% (5,100 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.2% (1,539 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11% (730 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.4% (3,945 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.5% (897 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 16.1% (1,067 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