Golden Valley, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
21,725
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$108,772/yr
-5.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,367
0.6% year-over-year change

Golden Valley population

How many people live in Golden Valley

Golden Valley is home to 21,725 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Golden Valley locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
21,725
-0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
10,552
Female
51.4%
11,173
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,552 48.6% 0.6%
Female 11,173 51.4% -2.3%
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 Golden Valley is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 16% are children under 15, then 7.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.2% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
16%
15 to 24
7.1%
25 to 44
28.2%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
22.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,471 16% 0.8%
15 to 24 1,548 7.1% -9.2%
25 to 44 6,116 28.2% 0.8%
45 to 64 5,654 26% -4.6%
Over 65 4,936 22.7% 3.2%
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 Golden Valley, 88.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77.9% of locals are Caucasian, 6.9% are African American and 3.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.3%
Non-citizens
3.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,279 88.7% -1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,592 7.3% 0.6%
Non-citizens 854 3.9% 16.8%
Racial breakdown
White
77.9%
Black or African American
6.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
10.8%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 16,927 77.9%
Black or African American 1,492 6.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 30 0.1%
Asian 682 3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 26 0.1%
Two or more races 2,345 10.8%
Other 223 1%

Households in Golden Valley

A peek inside Golden Valley households

Golden Valley has 9,623 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.2% are families, while the remaining 39.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,623
-0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,826
Family households
5,797
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,826 39.8% 5.2%
Family households 5,797 60.2% -3.9%
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 Golden Valley

The housing landscape of Golden Valley

Golden Valley's housing consists of 10,367 units, with 61.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
10,367
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,342 61.2%
1 unit, attached 557 5.4%
2 units 73 0.7%
3 or 4 units 42 0.4%
5 to 9 units 149 1.4%
10 to 19 units 459 4.4%
20 to 49 units 554 5.3%
50 or more units 2,191 21.1%
Homes built since 2020
83
5.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Golden Valley

In Golden Valley, the median construction year is 1966. About 3.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 341 3.3% -2.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 589 5.7% 14.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,918 28.2% -2.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,289 22.1% 1.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,144 11% 6.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 829 8% -11.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 252 2.4% 33.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 819 7.9% 2.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,103 10.6% -1.2%
Built in 2020 or later 83 0.8% 5.1%
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.

Golden Valley occupancy rates

Out of the 9,623 occupied housing units in Golden Valley, 70.7% are owner-occupied, while 29.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,623
-0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,820
Owner occupied
6,803
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,820 29.3% -2.8%
Owner occupied 6,803 70.7% 0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
7.2%
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.

Golden Valley housing costs

Housing costs in Golden Valley come to a median of $1,906 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,785.

Median housing costs per month
$1,906/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 Golden Valley
$1,785/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 Golden Valley

Golden Valley education at a glance

About 16.8% of the population in Golden Valley went to high school, while 16.7% pursued college studies. Another 5.8% earned an associate degree and 36.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 23.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 255 1.4% 23.8%
High school diploma 2,961 16.8% 0.3%
College diploma 2,938 16.7% 6.0%
Associate degree 1,018 5.8% -5.5%
Bachelor's degree 6,372 36.1% -2.5%
Graduate degree 4,088 23.2% -3.9%
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 Golden Valley

How much people earn in Golden Valley

The average annual household income in Golden Valley was $153,465 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $108,772, reflecting a -5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Golden Valley
$153,465/year
-4.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Golden Valley
$108,772/year
-5.0% year-over-year change

Golden Valley income by age

In Golden Valley, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $139,930. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $123,460 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $71,955, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $68,346 in earnings. Overall, 90.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $71,955 -1.8%
25 - 44 $139,930 -6.6%
45 - 64 $123,460 2.4%
Over 65 $68,346 1.5%
Above poverty level
19,193
Below poverty level
1,952
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 19,193 90.8% -2.4%
Below poverty level 1,952 9.2% 12.4%

Average renter income in Golden Valley

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Golden Valley, their median household income was $62,689 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$62,689
Rent-to-income ratio
34.2%
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 Golden Valley

Workforce and job types in Golden Valley

The job market in Golden Valley is powered by 11,376 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 91.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 8.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.9% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 7.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,376
-2.9% year-over-year change
White collar
10,457
Blue collar
919
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,457 91.9% -3.0%
Blue collar 919 8.1% -1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
13.9%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
7.2%
Not for profit companies
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,582 13.9% 18.1%
Private companies 7,641 67.2% -3.0%
Governmental workers 819 7.2% -3.8%
Not for profit companies 1,334 11.7% -19.0%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
23.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Golden Valley stands at 4.6%, 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 Golden Valley

How people get around in Golden Valley

In Golden Valley, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 67.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
-4.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,558 67.2% -7.0%
Bus or trolleybus 254 2.3% -12.4%
Bicycle 28 0.2% 16.7%
Walk 61 0.5% 117.9%
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 Golden Valley by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
55416 35,015 18,055 $105,958 $143,601
55422 28,452 12,128 $93,914 $128,327
55426 25,251 11,820 $99,347 $122,250
55427 24,764 10,670 $92,821 $114,641

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FAQs about Golden Valley demographics 

What is the total population of Golden Valley?

Golden Valley has a total population of 21,725 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 -0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Golden Valley?

The gender ratio in Golden Valley is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (10,552 residents)
  • 51.4% females (11,173 residents)

What is the median age in Golden Valley?

The median age in Golden Valley is 44.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Golden Valley?

The age distribution in Golden Valley is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16% (3,471 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.1% (1,548 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.2% (6,116 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (5,654 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.7% (4,936 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Golden Valley?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Golden Valley is as follows:
  • White: 77.9% (16,927 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.9% (1,492 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (30 residents)
  • Asian: 3.1% (682 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (26 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.8% (2,345 residents)
  • Other: 1% (223 residents)

What percentage of the population in Golden Valley are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.7% of the population in Golden Valley.

How many housing units are there in Golden Valley?

There are 10,367 housing units in Golden Valley, 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 Golden Valley and what is the average household size?

Golden Valley has a total of 9,623 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Golden Valley?

Golden Valley has a median household income of $108,772, representing a -5.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Golden Valley?

The employment rate is 95.4% in Golden Valley, with a workforce of 11,376 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 91.9% (10,457 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 8.1% (919 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.9% (1,582 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (7,641 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 7.2% (819 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.7% (1,334 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