Nelson, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
155
37.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,188/yr
8.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
78
9.9% year-over-year change

Nelson population

How many people live in Nelson

Nelson is home to 155 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 56.1% of Nelson locals are male, and 43.9% are female.

Total population
155
37.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
56.1%
87
Female
43.9%
68
Value Percent YoY change
Male 87 56.1% 35.9%
Female 68 43.9% 38.8%
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 Nelson is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.3% are children under 15, then 14.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 15.5% of the population, while another 47.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 10.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
48.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.3%
15 to 24
14.8%
25 to 44
15.5%
45 to 64
47.1%
Over 65
10.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 19 12.3% 18.8%
15 to 24 23 14.8% 91.7%
25 to 44 24 15.5% -4.0%
45 to 64 73 47.1% 55.3%
Over 65 16 10.3% 23.1%
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

There’s also a share of 5.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
100%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 155 100% 37.2%
Racial breakdown
White
92.9%
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
5.2%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 144 92.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1 0.6%
Two or more races 8 5.2%
Other 2 1.3%

Households in Nelson

A peek inside Nelson households

Nelson has 77 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.8% are families, while the remaining 53.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
77
18.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
41
Family households
36
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 41 53.2% 2.5%
Family households 36 46.8% 44.0%
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 Nelson

The housing landscape of Nelson

Nelson's housing consists of 78 units, with 64.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.8% 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 15.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
78
9.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 50 64.1%
1 unit, attached 3 3.8%
5 to 9 units 3 3.8%
10 to 19 units 10 12.8%
Mobile home 12 15.4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Nelson

In Nelson, the median construction year is 1974. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 27 34.6% -3.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1 1.3% -66.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4 5.1% N/A
Built between 1970 and 1979 20 25.6% -13.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7 9% 0.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11 14.1% 120.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8 10.3% 60.0%
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.

Nelson occupancy rates

Out of the 77 occupied housing units in Nelson, 54.6% are owner-occupied, while 45.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 1.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
77
18.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
35
Owner occupied
42
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 35 45.4% 9.4%
Owner occupied 42 54.6% 27.3%
Unoccupied housing units
1.3%
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.

Nelson housing costs

Housing costs in Nelson come to a median of $1,000 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,000.

Median housing costs per month
$1,000/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 Nelson
$1,000/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 Nelson

Nelson education at a glance

About 37.9% of the population in Nelson went to high school, while 39.5% pursued college studies. Another 19.4% earned an associate degree and 2.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 0.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
High school diploma 47 37.9% 67.9%
College diploma 49 39.5% 28.9%
Associate degree 24 19.4% 33.3%
Bachelor's degree 3 2.4% -62.5%
Graduate degree 1 0.8% 0.0%
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 Nelson

How much people earn in Nelson

The average annual household income in Nelson was $65,181 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +9.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,188, reflecting a +8.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Nelson
$65,181/year
9.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Nelson
$57,188/year
8.5% year-over-year change

Nelson income by age

In Nelson, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,250. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $57,188 overall. Overall, 91% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $71,250 -5.0%
45 - 64 $57,188 8.1%
Over 65 $75,000 -10.4%
Above poverty level
141
Below poverty level
14
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 141 91% 43.9%
Below poverty level 14 9% -6.7%

Average renter income in Nelson

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Nelson, their median household income was $38,250 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$38,250
Rent-to-income ratio
31.4%
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 Nelson

Workforce and job types in Nelson

The job market in Nelson is powered by 99 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.1% run their own businesses, 66.7% are employed by private companies, and 14.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
99
39.4% year-over-year change
White collar
65
Blue collar
34
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 65 65.7% 44.4%
Blue collar 34 34.3% 30.8%
Employer type
Self employees
9.1%
Private companies
66.7%
Governmental workers
14.1%
Not for profit companies
10.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 9 9.1% -18.2%
Private companies 66 66.7% 22.2%
Governmental workers 14 14.1% 180.0%
Not for profit companies 10 10.1% 900.0%
Unemployment rate
3.9%

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Nelson stands at 3.9%, 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 Nelson

How people get around in Nelson

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 90 93.8% 45.2%
Bus or trolleybus 1 1% 0.0%
Bicycle 1 1% 0.0%
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 Nelson by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56355 737 282 $97,500 $105,631

Explore more communities

FAQs about Nelson demographics 

What is the total population of Nelson?

Nelson has a total population of 155 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 +37.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Nelson?

The gender ratio in Nelson is as follows:
  • 56.1% males (87 residents)
  • 43.9% females (68 residents)

What is the median age in Nelson?

The median age in Nelson is 48.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Nelson?

The age distribution in Nelson is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.3% (19 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.8% (23 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 15.5% (24 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 47.1% (73 residents)
  • Over 65: 10.3% (16 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Nelson?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Nelson is as follows:
  • White: 92.9% (144 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (1 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.2% (8 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (2 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 100% of the population in Nelson.

How many housing units are there in Nelson?

There are 78 housing units in Nelson, reflecting a +9.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Nelson has a total of 77 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Nelson?

Nelson has a median household income of $57,188, representing a +8.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.1% in Nelson, with a workforce of 99 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.7% (65 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.3% (34 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.1% (9 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.7% (66 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.1% (14 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.1% (10 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