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

Total population
47,943
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$84,171/yr
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,167
0.5% year-over-year change

Goodhue County population

How many people live in Goodhue County

Goodhue County is home to 47,943 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Goodhue County locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
47,943
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
24,033
Female
49.9%
23,910
Value Percent YoY change
Male 24,033 50.1% 0.2%
Female 23,910 49.9% 0.2%
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 Goodhue County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.9% are children under 15, then 11.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24% of the population, while another 26.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.9%
15 to 24
11.1%
25 to 44
24%
45 to 64
26.3%
Over 65
20.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,595 17.9% -1.1%
15 to 24 5,330 11.1% 2.5%
25 to 44 11,520 24% -0.3%
45 to 64 12,626 26.3% -1.3%
Over 65 9,872 20.6% 2.7%
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 Goodhue County, 97% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
1.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 46,490 97% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 595 1.2% 8.0%
Non-citizens 858 1.8% -1.4%
Racial breakdown
White
89.6%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
2.5%
Value Percent
White 42,969 89.6%
Black or African American 752 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 451 0.9%
Asian 329 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 15 0%
Two or more races 2,231 4.6%
Other 1,196 2.5%

Households in Goodhue County

A peek inside Goodhue County households

Goodhue County has 19,727 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.5% are families, while the remaining 36.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,727
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,193
Family households
12,534
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,193 36.5% 1.5%
Family households 12,534 63.5% -0.1%
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 Goodhue County

The housing landscape of Goodhue County

Goodhue County's housing consists of 21,167 units, with 72.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.3% 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 4.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,167
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 15,416 72.8%
1 unit, attached 1,131 5.3%
2 units 538 2.5%
3 or 4 units 766 3.6%
5 to 9 units 446 2.1%
10 to 19 units 480 2.3%
20 to 49 units 807 3.8%
50 or more units 514 2.4%
Mobile home 1,046 4.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 23 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
451
49.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Goodhue County

In Goodhue County, the median construction year is 1973. About 25.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,376 25.4% 4.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 725 3.4% 1.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,462 6.9% 1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,001 9.4% -0.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,916 13.8% -4.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,066 9.8% -1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,195 10.4% -8.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,812 13.3% 1.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,163 5.5% 5.2%
Built in 2020 or later 451 2.1% 49.3%
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.

Goodhue County occupancy rates

Out of the 19,727 occupied housing units in Goodhue County, 78.8% are owner-occupied, while 21.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,727
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,179
Owner occupied
15,548
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,179 21.2% -3.2%
Owner occupied 15,548 78.8% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
6.8%
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.

Goodhue County housing costs

Housing costs in Goodhue County come to a median of $1,206 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $966.

Median housing costs per month
$1,206/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 Goodhue County
$966/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 Goodhue County

Goodhue County education at a glance

About 40.2% of the population in Goodhue County went to high school, while 19.7% pursued college studies. Another 11.9% earned an associate degree and 18.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 732 2% 16.9%
High school diploma 15,039 40.2% 3.8%
College diploma 7,359 19.7% -3.7%
Associate degree 4,449 11.9% -4.7%
Bachelor's degree 6,863 18.3% 2.5%
Graduate degree 2,987 8% -4.3%
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 Goodhue County

How much people earn in Goodhue County

The average annual household income in Goodhue County was $102,161 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $84,171, reflecting a +1.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Goodhue County
$102,161/year
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Goodhue County
$84,171/year
1.7% year-over-year change

Goodhue County income by age

In Goodhue County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $97,558. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $100,676 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $31,838, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,009 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 $31,838 -0.4%
25 - 44 $97,558 4.1%
45 - 64 $100,676 -2.3%
Over 65 $60,009 0.5%
Above poverty level
42,231
Below poverty level
4,266
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 42,231 90.8% 0.3%
Below poverty level 4,266 9.2% 1.0%

Employment in Goodhue County

Workforce and job types in Goodhue County

The job market in Goodhue County is powered by 24,055 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.5% run their own businesses, 65.9% are employed by private companies, and 12.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
24,055
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
16,823
Blue collar
7,232
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 16,823 69.9% -0.5%
Blue collar 7,232 30.1% 0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
10.5%
Private companies
65.9%
Governmental workers
12.6%
Not for profit companies
11%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,525 10.5% 1.5%
Private companies 15,856 65.9% 3.0%
Governmental workers 3,040 12.6% -12.1%
Not for profit companies 2,634 11% -5.9%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
-0.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Goodhue 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 Goodhue County

How people get around in Goodhue County

In Goodhue County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.7% 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
-3.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 20,159 85.1% -0.9%
Taxicab 11 0% -15.4%
Bus or trolleybus 163 0.7% -32.9%
Motorcycle 12 0% -36.8%
Bicycle 75 0.3% 15.4%
Walk 632 2.7% 18.6%
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 Goodhue County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
55009 8,127 3,287 $91,295 $107,426
55018 969 408 $83,854 $122,711
55026 470 164 $96,667 $128,229
55027 2,739 950 $93,043 $108,247
55041 7,510 3,289 $78,672 $97,714
55053 995 341 $101,406 $117,301
55066 19,226 8,313 $73,584 $96,923
55089 1,612 580 $108,750 $130,342
55946 3,395 1,313 $85,781 $98,842
55956 2,199 899 $98,558 $117,942

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FAQs about Goodhue County demographics 

What is the total population of Goodhue County?

Goodhue County has a total population of 47,943 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 Goodhue County?

The gender ratio in Goodhue County is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (24,033 residents)
  • 49.9% females (23,910 residents)

What is the median age in Goodhue County?

The median age in Goodhue County is 42.5.

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

The age distribution in Goodhue County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.9% (8,595 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.1% (5,330 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24% (11,520 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.3% (12,626 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.6% (9,872 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Goodhue County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Goodhue County is as follows:
  • White: 89.6% (42,969 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (752 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (451 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (329 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (15 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (2,231 residents)
  • Other: 2.5% (1,196 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97% of the population in Goodhue County.

How many housing units are there in Goodhue County?

There are 21,167 housing units in Goodhue County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Goodhue County has a total of 19,727 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Goodhue County?

Goodhue County has a median household income of $84,171, representing a +1.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in Goodhue County, with a workforce of 24,055 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.9% (16,823 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.1% (7,232 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.5% (2,525 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.9% (15,856 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.6% (3,040 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11% (2,634 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