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

Total population
36,798
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$80,084/yr
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,972
0.2% year-over-year change

McLeod County population

How many people live in McLeod County

McLeod County is home to 36,798 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of McLeod County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
36,798
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
18,584
Female
49.5%
18,214
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,584 50.5% 0.6%
Female 18,214 49.5% -0.4%
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 McLeod County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.7% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.7%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
20.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,504 17.7% -2.5%
15 to 24 4,517 12.3% 4.1%
25 to 44 8,923 24.2% 0.2%
45 to 64 9,461 25.7% -1.7%
Over 65 7,393 20.1% 2.2%
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 McLeod County, 95.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.6% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.5%
Non-citizens
2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 35,171 95.6% 0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 906 2.5% -6.5%
Non-citizens 721 2% 12.0%
Racial breakdown
White
89.6%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
4.9%
Other
3.9%
Value Percent
White 32,972 89.6%
Black or African American 224 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 80 0.2%
Asian 232 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 44 0.1%
Two or more races 1,809 4.9%
Other 1,437 3.9%

Households in McLeod County

A peek inside McLeod County households

McLeod County has 15,215 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.6% are families, while the remaining 36.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,215
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,539
Family households
9,676
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,539 36.4% 1.6%
Family households 9,676 63.6% 1.7%
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 McLeod County

The housing landscape of McLeod County

McLeod County's housing consists of 15,972 units, with 71.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.1% 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 4.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,972
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,385 71.3%
1 unit, attached 977 6.1%
2 units 207 1.3%
3 or 4 units 393 2.5%
5 to 9 units 461 2.9%
10 to 19 units 689 4.3%
20 to 49 units 719 4.5%
50 or more units 370 2.3%
Mobile home 767 4.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 4 0%
Homes built since 2020
208
101.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in McLeod County

In McLeod County, the median construction year is 1979. About 15.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,488 15.6% -3.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 712 4.5% 17.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,242 7.8% -6.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,456 9.1% 2.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,399 15% 7.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,218 13.9% -5.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,417 15.1% 2.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,050 12.8% -6.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 782 4.9% 4.8%
Built in 2020 or later 208 1.3% 101.9%
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.

McLeod County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,215 occupied housing units in McLeod County, 77.4% are owner-occupied, while 22.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,215
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,434
Owner occupied
11,781
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,434 22.6% 3.2%
Owner occupied 11,781 77.4% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
4.7%
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.

McLeod County housing costs

Housing costs in McLeod County come to a median of $1,104 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $941.

Median housing costs per month
$1,104/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 McLeod County
$941/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 McLeod County

McLeod County education at a glance

About 41% of the population in McLeod County went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 15.5% earned an associate degree and 13.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 462 1.6% -10.6%
High school diploma 11,780 41% 2.2%
College diploma 6,507 22.6% -1.1%
Associate degree 4,462 15.5% -2.3%
Bachelor's degree 3,858 13.4% 4.3%
Graduate degree 1,665 5.8% -2.1%
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 McLeod County

How much people earn in McLeod County

The average annual household income in McLeod County was $99,958 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $80,084, reflecting a +2.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in McLeod County
$99,958/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in McLeod County
$80,084/year
2.1% year-over-year change

McLeod County income by age

In McLeod County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $92,995. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $104,741 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,809, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,690 in earnings. Overall, 91.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,809 -15.3%
25 - 44 $92,995 -0.6%
45 - 64 $104,741 2.2%
Over 65 $53,690 2.5%
Above poverty level
32,797
Below poverty level
3,074
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 32,797 91.4% -1.2%
Below poverty level 3,074 8.6% 11.3%

Employment in McLeod County

Workforce and job types in McLeod County

The job market in McLeod County is powered by 19,388 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.4% run their own businesses, 72% are employed by private companies, and 9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
19,388
0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
12,621
Blue collar
6,767
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,621 65.1% 1.1%
Blue collar 6,767 34.9% -1.2%
Employer type
Self employees
9.4%
Private companies
72%
Governmental workers
9%
Not for profit companies
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,818 9.4% 2.9%
Private companies 13,953 72% -1.3%
Governmental workers 1,748 9% -3.9%
Not for profit companies 1,869 9.6% 16.5%
Unemployment rate
3.3%
0.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in McLeod County stands at 3.3%, 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 McLeod County

How people get around in McLeod County

Commuting methods vary: 85.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,245 85.5% -2.0%
Taxicab 8 0% 60.0%
Bus or trolleybus 56 0.3% -22.2%
Motorcycle 5 0% 150.0%
Bicycle 162 0.8% 8.7%
Walk 598 3.2% 9.5%
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 McLeod County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
55312 1,428 538 $100,568 $106,040
55336 8,296 3,461 $77,261 $94,348
55350 18,610 7,904 $79,123 $102,644
55354 3,159 1,100 $97,941 $113,709
55370 558 196 $103,750 $107,897
55381 1,819 767 $88,661 $100,864
55385 1,337 504 $78,125 $100,088
55395 2,723 1,216 $72,800 $87,047

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FAQs about McLeod County demographics 

What is the total population of McLeod County?

McLeod County has a total population of 36,798 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 McLeod County?

The gender ratio in McLeod County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (18,584 residents)
  • 49.5% females (18,214 residents)

What is the median age in McLeod County?

The median age in McLeod County is 41.6.

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

The age distribution in McLeod County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.7% (6,504 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (4,517 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (8,923 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (9,461 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.1% (7,393 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of McLeod County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of McLeod County is as follows:
  • White: 89.6% (32,972 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (224 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (80 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (232 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (44 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.9% (1,809 residents)
  • Other: 3.9% (1,437 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.6% of the population in McLeod County.

How many housing units are there in McLeod County?

There are 15,972 housing units in McLeod County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

McLeod County has a total of 15,215 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in McLeod County?

McLeod County has a median household income of $80,084, representing a +2.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.7% in McLeod County, with a workforce of 19,388 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.1% (12,621 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.9% (6,767 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.4% (1,818 residents)
  • Private companies: 72% (13,953 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9% (1,748 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.6% (1,869 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