Northfield, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,742
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$84,895/yr
-7.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,771
1.9% year-over-year change

Northfield population

How many people live in Northfield

Northfield is home to 20,742 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.9% of Northfield locals are male, and 52.1% are female.

Total population
20,742
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.9%
9,930
Female
52.1%
10,812
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,930 47.9% 1.1%
Female 10,812 52.1% -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 Northfield is 28, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.8% are children under 15, then 33.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 17.1% of the population, while another 19.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
28.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.8%
15 to 24
33.8%
25 to 44
17.1%
45 to 64
19.1%
Over 65
16.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,872 13.8% 2.3%
15 to 24 7,006 33.8% -0.8%
25 to 44 3,545 17.1% -1.0%
45 to 64 3,966 19.1% 0.6%
Over 65 3,353 16.2% 2.0%
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 Northfield, 88.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.7% of locals are Caucasian, 2.1% are African American and 4.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.3%
Non-citizens
6.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,272 88.1% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,104 5.3% 31.0%
Non-citizens 1,366 6.6% -14.1%
Racial breakdown
White
80.7%
Black or African American
2.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
4.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.3%
Other
3.1%
Value Percent
White 16,744 80.7%
Black or African American 433 2.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 62 0.3%
Asian 913 4.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6 0%
Two or more races 1,934 9.3%
Other 650 3.1%

Households in Northfield

A peek inside Northfield households

Northfield has 6,380 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62% are families, while the remaining 38% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,380
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,421
Family households
3,959
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,421 38% 3.6%
Family households 3,959 62% -1.8%
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 Northfield

The housing landscape of Northfield

Northfield's housing consists of 6,771 units, with 52.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.9% 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 4.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,771
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,527 52.1%
1 unit, attached 807 11.9%
2 units 205 3%
3 or 4 units 233 3.4%
5 to 9 units 224 3.3%
10 to 19 units 510 7.5%
20 to 49 units 539 8%
50 or more units 412 6.1%
Mobile home 314 4.6%
Homes built since 2020
135
136.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Northfield

In Northfield, the median construction year is 1986. About 15.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 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 1,038 15.3% -7.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 234 3.5% 4.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 333 4.9% -25.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 378 5.6% -19.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 955 14.1% 16.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 700 10.3% 1.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 934 13.8% -8.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,457 21.5% 9.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 607 9% 32.2%
Built in 2020 or later 135 2% 136.8%
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.

Northfield occupancy rates

Out of the 6,380 occupied housing units in Northfield, 69.3% are owner-occupied, while 30.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,380
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,956
Owner occupied
4,424
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,956 30.7% 1.7%
Owner occupied 4,424 69.3% -0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
5.8%
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.

Northfield housing costs

Housing costs in Northfield come to a median of $1,296 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,103.

Median housing costs per month
$1,296/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 Northfield
$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 Northfield

Northfield education at a glance

About 22.6% of the population in Northfield went to high school, while 35% pursued college studies. Another 6.5% earned an associate degree and 18.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 109 0.6% 60.3%
High school diploma 3,876 22.6% 2.6%
College diploma 6,012 35% -5.1%
Associate degree 1,123 6.5% -4.8%
Bachelor's degree 3,136 18.3% 7.5%
Graduate degree 2,912 17% 1.8%
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 Northfield

How much people earn in Northfield

The average annual household income in Northfield was $107,489 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $84,895, reflecting a -7.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Northfield
$107,489/year
-1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Northfield
$84,895/year
-7.7% year-over-year change

Northfield income by age

In Northfield, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $95,341. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $115,000 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,117, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $69,104 in earnings. Overall, 91.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,117 N/A
25 - 44 $95,341 -5.6%
45 - 64 $115,000 0.9%
Over 65 $69,104 -0.8%
Above poverty level
13,880
Below poverty level
1,339
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,880 91.2% -0.8%
Below poverty level 1,339 8.8% 22.2%

Average renter income in Northfield

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Northfield, their median household income was $43,235 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$43,235
Rent-to-income ratio
30.6%
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 Northfield

Workforce and job types in Northfield

The job market in Northfield is powered by 10,656 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8% run their own businesses, 54% are employed by private companies, and 12.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,656
-2.9% year-over-year change
White collar
8,475
Blue collar
2,181
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,475 79.5% -1.0%
Blue collar 2,181 20.5% -9.8%
Employer type
Self employees
8%
Private companies
54%
Governmental workers
12.8%
Not for profit companies
25.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 851 8% 20.7%
Private companies 5,758 54% -7.0%
Governmental workers 1,366 12.8% 7.5%
Not for profit companies 2,681 25.2% -4.6%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
-0.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Northfield stands at 4.9%, 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 Northfield

How people get around in Northfield

In Northfield, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 59.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 20.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
-6.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,171 59.9% -6.8%
Taxicab 1 0% -50.0%
Bus or trolleybus 59 0.6% -21.3%
Motorcycle 4 0% -75.0%
Bicycle 200 1.9% 181.7%
Walk 2,135 20.7% 18.9%
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 Northfield by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
55057 25,650 8,113 $92,622 $114,620

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Northfield demographics 

What is the total population of Northfield?

Northfield has a total population of 20,742 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Northfield?

The gender ratio in Northfield is as follows:
  • 47.9% males (9,930 residents)
  • 52.1% females (10,812 residents)

What is the median age in Northfield?

The median age in Northfield is 28.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Northfield?

The age distribution in Northfield is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.8% (2,872 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 33.8% (7,006 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 17.1% (3,545 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.1% (3,966 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.2% (3,353 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Northfield?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Northfield is as follows:
  • White: 80.7% (16,744 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.1% (433 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (62 residents)
  • Asian: 4.4% (913 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (6 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.3% (1,934 residents)
  • Other: 3.1% (650 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.1% of the population in Northfield.

How many housing units are there in Northfield?

There are 6,771 housing units in Northfield, reflecting a +1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Northfield has a total of 6,380 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Northfield?

Northfield has a median household income of $84,895, representing a -7.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.1% in Northfield, with a workforce of 10,656 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.5% (8,475 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.5% (2,181 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8% (851 residents)
  • Private companies: 54% (5,758 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.8% (1,366 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 25.2% (2,681 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