Otter Tail County, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
60,475
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$72,255/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
36,698
0.1% year-over-year change

Otter Tail County population

How many people live in Otter Tail County

Otter Tail County is home to 60,475 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Otter Tail County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
60,475
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
30,527
Female
49.5%
29,948
Value Percent YoY change
Male 30,527 50.5% 0.2%
Female 29,948 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 Otter Tail County is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.8% are children under 15, then 10.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.7% of the population, while another 25.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.8%
15 to 24
10.2%
25 to 44
20.7%
45 to 64
25.8%
Over 65
25.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 10,793 17.8% -0.3%
15 to 24 6,200 10.2% -1.2%
25 to 44 12,508 20.7% 1.1%
45 to 64 15,600 25.8% -1.5%
Over 65 15,374 25.4% 2.7%
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 Otter Tail County, 96.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.2% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 58,279 96.4% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,343 2.2% 12.9%
Non-citizens 853 1.4% 20.3%
Racial breakdown
White
91.2%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5%
Other
1.9%
Value Percent
White 55,169 91.2%
Black or African American 658 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 140 0.2%
Asian 349 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 19 0%
Two or more races 2,996 5%
Other 1,144 1.9%

Households in Otter Tail County

A peek inside Otter Tail County households

Otter Tail County has 25,157 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.9% are families, while the remaining 35.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
25,157
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
8,821
Family households
16,336
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,821 35.1% 0.7%
Family households 16,336 64.9% -0.5%
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 Otter Tail County

The housing landscape of Otter Tail County

Otter Tail County's housing consists of 36,698 units, with 80.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 6.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
36,698
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 29,694 80.9%
1 unit, attached 795 2.2%
2 units 250 0.7%
3 or 4 units 699 1.9%
5 to 9 units 569 1.6%
10 to 19 units 799 2.2%
20 to 49 units 1,082 3%
50 or more units 436 1.2%
Mobile home 2,355 6.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 19 0%
Homes built since 2020
420
105.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Otter Tail County

In Otter Tail County, the median construction year is 1979. About 15.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.6% 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, 10.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,679 15.5% -1.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,687 4.6% -3.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,498 6.8% -8.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,425 9.3% 2.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,585 15.2% -1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,010 10.9% 0.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,363 11.9% 0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,188 14.1% -4.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,843 10.5% 10.2%
Built in 2020 or later 420 1.1% 105.9%
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.

Otter Tail County occupancy rates

Out of the 25,157 occupied housing units in Otter Tail County, 79.5% are owner-occupied, while 20.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 31.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
25,157
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,161
Owner occupied
19,996
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,161 20.5% -1.6%
Owner occupied 19,996 79.5% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
31.4%
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.

Otter Tail County housing costs

Housing costs in Otter Tail County come to a median of $965 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $868.

Median housing costs per month
$965/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 Otter Tail County
$868/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 Otter Tail County

Otter Tail County education at a glance

About 33.2% of the population in Otter Tail County went to high school, while 22.3% pursued college studies. Another 15.8% earned an associate degree and 17.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,072 2.3% -0.4%
High school diploma 15,721 33.2% -1.2%
College diploma 10,564 22.3% -0.7%
Associate degree 7,489 15.8% 0.3%
Bachelor's degree 8,413 17.8% 2.1%
Graduate degree 4,079 8.6% 7.0%
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 Otter Tail County

How much people earn in Otter Tail County

The average annual household income in Otter Tail County was $92,523 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $72,255, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Otter Tail County
$92,523/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Otter Tail County
$72,255/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Otter Tail County income by age

In Otter Tail County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $87,805. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $94,085 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,404, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,778 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 $39,404 1.5%
25 - 44 $87,805 1.2%
45 - 64 $94,085 3.8%
Over 65 $53,778 3.7%
Above poverty level
53,769
Below poverty level
5,153
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 53,769 91.2% 0.6%
Below poverty level 5,153 8.8% -1.3%

Employment in Otter Tail County

Workforce and job types in Otter Tail County

The job market in Otter Tail County is powered by 28,254 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.7% run their own businesses, 60.5% are employed by private companies, and 14.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
28,254
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
20,164
Blue collar
8,090
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 20,164 71.4% -0.3%
Blue collar 8,090 28.6% 1.1%
Employer type
Self employees
13.7%
Private companies
60.5%
Governmental workers
14.2%
Not for profit companies
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,859 13.7% -1.5%
Private companies 17,082 60.5% -2.2%
Governmental workers 4,000 14.2% 2.6%
Not for profit companies 3,313 11.7% 12.3%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
-7.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Otter Tail County stands at 4.8%, 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 Otter Tail County

How people get around in Otter Tail County

In Otter Tail County, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 23,456 84.2% 0.8%
Taxicab 7 0% 40.0%
Bus or trolleybus 228 0.8% 11.8%
Motorcycle 30 0.1% -9.1%
Bicycle 93 0.3% -29.0%
Walk 817 2.9% -6.5%
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 Otter Tail County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56477 2,594 1,158 $57,857 $71,517
56482 7,619 3,244 $64,439 $79,589
56309 1,296 519 $84,750 $101,110
56324 1,028 462 $82,917 $101,572
56361 2,592 986 $70,541 $84,801
56437 1,410 512 $60,345 $71,957
56446 1,418 593 $56,979 $71,995
56453 841 314 $70,833 $83,739
56515 2,723 1,274 $73,750 $94,352
56518 494 164 $71,250 $80,312

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FAQs about Otter Tail County demographics 

What is the total population of Otter Tail County?

Otter Tail County has a total population of 60,475 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 Otter Tail County?

The gender ratio in Otter Tail County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (30,527 residents)
  • 49.5% females (29,948 residents)

What is the median age in Otter Tail County?

The median age in Otter Tail County is 46.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Otter Tail County?

The age distribution in Otter Tail County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.8% (10,793 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.2% (6,200 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.7% (12,508 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.8% (15,600 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.4% (15,374 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Otter Tail County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Otter Tail County is as follows:
  • White: 91.2% (55,169 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (658 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (140 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (349 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (19 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5% (2,996 residents)
  • Other: 1.9% (1,144 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.4% of the population in Otter Tail County.

How many housing units are there in Otter Tail County?

There are 36,698 housing units in Otter Tail County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Otter Tail County has a total of 25,157 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Otter Tail County?

Otter Tail County has a median household income of $72,255, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.2% in Otter Tail County, with a workforce of 28,254 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.4% (20,164 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.6% (8,090 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.7% (3,859 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.5% (17,082 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.2% (4,000 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.7% (3,313 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