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

Total population
1,269,496
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$97,653/yr
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
571,527
1.3% year-over-year change

Hennepin County population

How many people live in Hennepin County

Hennepin County is home to 1,269,496 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Hennepin County locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
1,269,496
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
630,998
Female
50.3%
638,498
Value Percent YoY change
Male 630,998 49.7% -0.0%
Female 638,498 50.3% 0.1%
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 Hennepin County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.9% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.6% of the population, while another 23.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.9%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
30.6%
45 to 64
23.8%
Over 65
15.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 227,787 17.9% -1.1%
15 to 24 153,288 12.1% 0.6%
25 to 44 388,601 30.6% -0.1%
45 to 64 301,769 23.8% -1.2%
Over 65 198,051 15.6% 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 Hennepin County, 85.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 66.3% of locals are Caucasian, 13.4% are African American and 7.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.2%
Non-citizens
5.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,079,876 85.1% -0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 116,693 9.2% 2.3%
Non-citizens 72,927 5.7% -2.1%
Racial breakdown
White
66.3%
Black or African American
13.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
7.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.7%
Other
3.8%
Value Percent
White 841,924 66.3%
Black or African American 170,160 13.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 7,884 0.6%
Asian 89,889 7.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 187 0%
Two or more races 110,801 8.7%
Other 48,651 3.8%

Households in Hennepin County

A peek inside Hennepin County households

Hennepin County has 539,493 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.2% are families, while the remaining 44.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
539,493
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
241,544
Family households
297,949
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 241,544 44.8% 2.2%
Family households 297,949 55.2% -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 Hennepin County

The housing landscape of Hennepin County

Hennepin County's housing consists of 571,527 units, with 52% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
571,527
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 297,075 52%
1 unit, attached 45,741 8%
2 units 20,271 3.6%
3 or 4 units 12,921 2.3%
5 to 9 units 15,963 2.8%
10 to 19 units 25,839 4.5%
20 to 49 units 42,337 7.4%
50 or more units 109,516 19.2%
Mobile home 1,753 0.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 111 0%
Homes built since 2020
11,340
75.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Hennepin County

In Hennepin County, the median construction year is 1973. About 18.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 106,027 18.6% 1.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 28,089 4.9% -0.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 69,528 12.2% -0.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 60,728 10.6% 1.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 77,332 13.5% 0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 73,010 12.8% -2.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 47,658 8.3% -5.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 47,104 8.2% 3.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 50,711 8.9% 7.3%
Built in 2020 or later 11,340 2% 75.5%
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.

Hennepin County occupancy rates

Out of the 539,493 occupied housing units in Hennepin County, 62.7% are owner-occupied, while 37.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
539,493
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
201,230
Owner occupied
338,263
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 201,230 37.3% 1.6%
Owner occupied 338,263 62.7% 0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
5.6%
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.

Hennepin County housing costs

Housing costs in Hennepin County come to a median of $1,665 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,487.

Median housing costs per month
$1,665/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 Hennepin County
$1,487/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 Hennepin County

Hennepin County education at a glance

About 19.8% of the population in Hennepin County went to high school, while 18.4% pursued college studies. Another 8.1% earned an associate degree and 32.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 29,109 2.9% 0.8%
High school diploma 196,834 19.8% -0.6%
College diploma 182,628 18.4% -2.1%
Associate degree 80,425 8.1% -1.3%
Bachelor's degree 324,293 32.6% 1.6%
Graduate degree 181,959 18.3% 2.0%
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 Hennepin County

How much people earn in Hennepin County

The average annual household income in Hennepin County was $138,433 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $97,653, reflecting a +1.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Hennepin County
$138,433/year
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Hennepin County
$97,653/year
1.4% year-over-year change

Hennepin County income by age

In Hennepin County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $107,913. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $123,742 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,540, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $68,042 in earnings. Overall, 90.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,540 3.5%
25 - 44 $107,913 1.7%
45 - 64 $123,742 2.5%
Over 65 $68,042 1.0%
Above poverty level
1,108,294
Below poverty level
122,314
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,108,294 90.1% 0.0%
Below poverty level 122,314 9.9% -0.4%

Employment in Hennepin County

Workforce and job types in Hennepin County

The job market in Hennepin County is powered by 697,474 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 86% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
697,474
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
600,185
Blue collar
97,289
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 600,185 86% -0.2%
Blue collar 97,289 14% -0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
12.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 64,046 9.2% 0.9%
Private companies 468,998 67.2% -1.0%
Governmental workers 80,236 11.5% 1.7%
Not for profit companies 84,194 12.1% 1.2%
Unemployment rate
4.5%
5.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Hennepin County stands at 4.5%, 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 Hennepin County

How people get around in Hennepin County

In Hennepin County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 66.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
-2.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 453,925 66.2% -3.5%
Taxicab 2,368 0.4% 5.3%
Bus or trolleybus 21,038 3.1% -12.8%
Subway or elevated 371 0% N/A
Railroad 44 0% -60.0%
Ferryboat 16 0% -62.8%
Motorcycle 615 0.1% -2.1%
Bicycle 6,080 0.9% -6.7%
Walk 18,966 2.8% -2.2%
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 Hennepin County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
55111 233 138 $0 $94,833
55305 21,068 9,927 $104,914 $144,880
55311 38,472 14,080 $153,568 $190,579
55316 23,294 8,604 $116,102 $133,912
55327 6,016 2,255 $140,366 $190,676
55331 19,805 7,816 $159,450 $259,689
55340 10,183 3,514 $178,553 $235,300
55341 3,561 1,144 $157,071 $167,819
55343 27,102 13,657 $83,143 $105,824
55344 14,034 7,078 $89,565 $128,828

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FAQs about Hennepin County demographics 

What is the total population of Hennepin County?

Hennepin County has a total population of 1,269,496 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Hennepin County?

The gender ratio in Hennepin County is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (630,998 residents)
  • 50.3% females (638,498 residents)

What is the median age in Hennepin County?

The median age in Hennepin County is 37.6.

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

The age distribution in Hennepin County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.9% (227,787 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (153,288 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.6% (388,601 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.8% (301,769 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.6% (198,051 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Hennepin County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Hennepin County is as follows:
  • White: 66.3% (841,924 residents)
  • Black or African American: 13.4% (170,160 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (7,884 residents)
  • Asian: 7.1% (89,889 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (187 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.7% (110,801 residents)
  • Other: 3.8% (48,651 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.1% of the population in Hennepin County.

How many housing units are there in Hennepin County?

There are 571,527 housing units in Hennepin County, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Hennepin County has a total of 539,493 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Hennepin County?

Hennepin County has a median household income of $97,653, representing a +1.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.5% in Hennepin County, with a workforce of 697,474 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86% (600,185 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14% (97,289 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (64,046 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (468,998 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (80,236 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.1% (84,194 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