Melrose, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,671
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,677/yr
2.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,658
0.2% year-over-year change

Melrose population

How many people live in Melrose

Melrose is home to 3,671 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Melrose locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
3,671
1.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
1,836
Female
50%
1,835
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,836 50% 5.4%
Female 1,835 50% -1.7%
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 Melrose is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.7% are children under 15, then 14.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.6% of the population, while another 22% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.7%
15 to 24
14.6%
25 to 44
21.6%
45 to 64
22%
Over 65
23.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 686 18.7% 8.9%
15 to 24 536 14.6% 28.2%
25 to 44 793 21.6% 1.7%
45 to 64 806 22% -18.4%
Over 65 850 23.2% 7.3%
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 Melrose, 87.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.2% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 4.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
10.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,222 87.8% -3.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 75 2% -10.7%
Non-citizens 374 10.2% 87.9%
Racial breakdown
White
75.9%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.1%
Other
19.3%
Value Percent
White 2,786 75.9%
Black or African American 1 0%
American Indian and Alaska Native 23 0.6%
Two or more races 151 4.1%
Other 710 19.3%

Households in Melrose

A peek inside Melrose households

Melrose has 1,553 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.9% are families, while the remaining 44.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,553
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
685
Family households
868
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 685 44.1% 4.4%
Family households 868 55.9% -3.1%
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 Melrose

The housing landscape of Melrose

Melrose's housing consists of 1,658 units, with 68.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 7.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,658
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,137 68.6%
1 unit, attached 10 0.6%
3 or 4 units 86 5.2%
5 to 9 units 71 4.3%
20 to 49 units 165 10%
50 or more units 72 4.3%
Mobile home 117 7.1%
Homes built since 2020
10
-16.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Melrose

In Melrose, the median construction year is 1970. About 21.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 350 21.1% -13.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 140 8.4% 5.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 82 5% -23.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 270 16.3% 1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 232 14% 14.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 221 13.3% -2.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 81 4.9% -30.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 234 14.1% 54.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 38 2.3% 8.6%
Built in 2020 or later 10 0.6% -16.7%
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.

Melrose occupancy rates

Out of the 1,553 occupied housing units in Melrose, 73.7% are owner-occupied, while 26.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,553
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
409
Owner occupied
1,144
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 409 26.3% -6.4%
Owner occupied 1,144 73.7% 2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
6.3%
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.

Melrose housing costs

Housing costs in Melrose come to a median of $967 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,103.

Median housing costs per month
$967/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 Melrose
$1,103/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 Melrose

Melrose education at a glance

About 48.7% of the population in Melrose went to high school, while 19.1% pursued college studies. Another 9.6% earned an associate degree and 8.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 255 9.2% 142.9%
High school diploma 1,357 48.7% 0.0%
College diploma 532 19.1% -17.6%
Associate degree 266 9.6% 8.6%
Bachelor's degree 232 8.3% -1.7%
Graduate degree 142 5.1% -35.5%
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 Melrose

How much people earn in Melrose

The average annual household income in Melrose was $78,511 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,677, reflecting a +2.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Melrose
$78,511/year
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Melrose
$59,677/year
2.7% year-over-year change

Melrose income by age

In Melrose, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $95,306. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $91,477 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $49,741, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $31,964 in earnings. Overall, 92% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $49,741 N/A
25 - 44 $95,306 -0.8%
45 - 64 $91,477 12.2%
Over 65 $31,964 0.4%
Above poverty level
3,245
Below poverty level
284
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,245 92% 2.9%
Below poverty level 284 8% -1.4%

Average renter income in Melrose

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Melrose, their median household income was $28,317 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 46.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$28,317
Rent-to-income ratio
46.7%
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 Melrose

Workforce and job types in Melrose

The job market in Melrose is powered by 1,954 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 54.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 45.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.9% run their own businesses, 72% are employed by private companies, and 10% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,954
8.0% year-over-year change
White collar
1,070
Blue collar
884
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,070 54.8% -8.0%
Blue collar 884 45.2% 36.8%
Employer type
Self employees
11.9%
Private companies
72%
Governmental workers
10%
Not for profit companies
6.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 232 11.9% 61.1%
Private companies 1,407 72% 4.5%
Governmental workers 195 10% 31.8%
Not for profit companies 120 6.1% -29.8%
Unemployment rate
0.7%
-77.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Melrose stands at 0.7%, 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 Melrose

How people get around in Melrose

Commuting methods vary: 76.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.5% 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 1,464 76.9% 4.2%
Bus or trolleybus 1 0% -50.0%
Walk 142 7.5% 1.4%
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 Melrose by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56352 6,112 2,444 $73,721 $91,409

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FAQs about Melrose demographics 

What is the total population of Melrose?

Melrose has a total population of 3,671 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 +1.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Melrose?

The gender ratio in Melrose is as follows:
  • 50% males (1,836 residents)
  • 50% females (1,835 residents)

What is the median age in Melrose?

The median age in Melrose is 38.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Melrose?

The age distribution in Melrose is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.7% (686 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.6% (536 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.6% (793 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22% (806 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.2% (850 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Melrose?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Melrose is as follows:
  • White: 75.9% (2,786 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (1 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (23 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.1% (151 residents)
  • Other: 19.3% (710 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 87.8% of the population in Melrose.

How many housing units are there in Melrose?

There are 1,658 housing units in Melrose, 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 Melrose and what is the average household size?

Melrose has a total of 1,553 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Melrose?

Melrose has a median household income of $59,677, representing a +2.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Melrose?

The employment rate is 99.3% in Melrose, with a workforce of 1,954 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 54.8% (1,070 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 45.2% (884 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.9% (232 residents)
  • Private companies: 72% (1,407 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10% (195 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.1% (120 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