Paynesville, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,519
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$75,250/yr
4.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,248
1.0% year-over-year change

Paynesville population

How many people live in Paynesville

Paynesville is home to 2,519 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.4% of Paynesville locals are male, and 47.6% are female.

Total population
2,519
1.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.4%
1,321
Female
47.6%
1,198
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,321 52.4% 7.0%
Female 1,198 47.6% -3.5%
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 Paynesville is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 14.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.2% of the population, while another 15.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 27.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
14.1%
25 to 44
25.2%
45 to 64
15.4%
Over 65
27.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 460 18.3% 28.5%
15 to 24 355 14.1% -12.8%
25 to 44 634 25.2% 10.4%
45 to 64 388 15.4% -13.2%
Over 65 682 27.1% -1.2%
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 Paynesville, 98.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.4%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,480 98.4% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 10 0.4% -16.7%
Non-citizens 29 1.2% 141.7%
Racial breakdown
White
92.1%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.5%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 2,320 92.1%
Black or African American 8 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 11 0.4%
Asian 19 0.8%
Two or more races 138 5.5%
Other 23 0.9%

Households in Paynesville

A peek inside Paynesville households

Paynesville has 1,113 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.3% are families, while the remaining 40.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,113
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
453
Family households
660
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 453 40.7% -4.8%
Family households 660 59.3% 4.1%
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 Paynesville

The housing landscape of Paynesville

Paynesville's housing consists of 1,248 units, with 63.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.7% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,248
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 797 63.9%
1 unit, attached 84 6.7%
2 units 14 1.1%
3 or 4 units 21 1.7%
5 to 9 units 44 3.5%
10 to 19 units 169 13.5%
20 to 49 units 103 8.2%
50 or more units 12 1%
Mobile home 4 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
24
20.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Paynesville

In Paynesville, the median construction year is 1972. About 18.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 234 18.8% 2.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 87 7% -29.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 158 12.7% 9.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 99 7.9% -17.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 245 19.6% 0.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 128 10.3% 40.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 93 7.4% 1.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 127 10.2% 2.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 53 4.2% 8.2%
Built in 2020 or later 24 1.9% 20.0%
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.

Paynesville occupancy rates

Out of the 1,113 occupied housing units in Paynesville, 68.6% are owner-occupied, while 31.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,113
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
349
Owner occupied
764
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 349 31.4% 2.0%
Owner occupied 764 68.6% -0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
10.8%
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.

Paynesville housing costs

Housing costs in Paynesville come to a median of $992 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $815.

Median housing costs per month
$992/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 Paynesville
$815/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 Paynesville

Paynesville education at a glance

About 38.5% of the population in Paynesville went to high school, while 20.4% pursued college studies. Another 14.1% earned an associate degree and 18.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 46 2.3% -23.3%
High school diploma 756 38.5% -0.5%
College diploma 401 20.4% 1.3%
Associate degree 277 14.1% -5.1%
Bachelor's degree 357 18.2% -0.6%
Graduate degree 128 6.5% -9.2%
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 Paynesville

How much people earn in Paynesville

The average annual household income in Paynesville was $77,847 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $75,250, reflecting a +4.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Paynesville
$77,847/year
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Paynesville
$75,250/year
4.4% year-over-year change

Paynesville income by age

In Paynesville, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $87,604. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $84,250 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $98,546, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,167 in earnings. Overall, 94.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $98,546 2.5%
25 - 44 $87,604 8.2%
45 - 64 $84,250 3.6%
Over 65 $44,167 2.0%
Above poverty level
2,310
Below poverty level
131
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,310 94.6% 2.0%
Below poverty level 131 5.4% -0.8%

Average renter income in Paynesville

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Paynesville, their median household income was $47,917 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 20.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$47,917
Rent-to-income ratio
20.4%
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 Paynesville

Workforce and job types in Paynesville

The job market in Paynesville is powered by 1,215 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.1% run their own businesses, 66.1% are employed by private companies, and 15.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,215
-4.9% year-over-year change
White collar
839
Blue collar
376
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 839 69% -9.4%
Blue collar 376 31% 7.1%
Employer type
Self employees
10.1%
Private companies
66.1%
Governmental workers
15.2%
Not for profit companies
8.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 123 10.1% 12.8%
Private companies 803 66.1% -1.7%
Governmental workers 185 15.2% -14.8%
Not for profit companies 104 8.6% -22.4%
Unemployment rate
2.4%
0.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Paynesville stands at 2.4%, 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 Paynesville

How people get around in Paynesville

Commuting methods vary: 87.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.6% 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 1,048 87.6% -3.4%
Bus or trolleybus 1 0.1% 0.0%
Walk 67 5.6% -4.3%
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 Paynesville by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56362 5,773 2,328 $86,212 $105,621

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FAQs about Paynesville demographics 

What is the total population of Paynesville?

Paynesville has a total population of 2,519 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 +1.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Paynesville?

The gender ratio in Paynesville is as follows:
  • 52.4% males (1,321 residents)
  • 47.6% females (1,198 residents)

What is the median age in Paynesville?

The median age in Paynesville is 36.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Paynesville?

The age distribution in Paynesville is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (460 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.1% (355 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.2% (634 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 15.4% (388 residents)
  • Over 65: 27.1% (682 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Paynesville?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Paynesville is as follows:
  • White: 92.1% (2,320 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (8 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (11 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (19 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.5% (138 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (23 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.4% of the population in Paynesville.

How many housing units are there in Paynesville?

There are 1,248 housing units in Paynesville, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Paynesville has a total of 1,113 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Paynesville?

Paynesville has a median household income of $75,250, representing a +4.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.6% in Paynesville, with a workforce of 1,215 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69% (839 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31% (376 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.1% (123 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.1% (803 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.2% (185 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.6% (104 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