Pope County, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
11,418
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,220/yr
5.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,424
0.2% year-over-year change

Pope County population

How many people live in Pope County

Pope County is home to 11,418 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.3% of Pope County locals are male, and 48.7% are female.

Total population
11,418
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.3%
5,862
Female
48.7%
5,556
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,862 51.3% 0.5%
Female 5,556 48.7% 0.5%
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 Pope County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.5% are children under 15, then 10% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.2% of the population, while another 24.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.5%
15 to 24
10%
25 to 44
22.2%
45 to 64
24.8%
Over 65
25.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,999 17.5% 0.7%
15 to 24 1,140 10% 0.2%
25 to 44 2,540 22.2% 1.7%
45 to 64 2,827 24.8% -2.3%
Over 65 2,912 25.5% 2.2%
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 Pope County, 98.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 94.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
0.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,259 98.6% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 121 1.1% -13.6%
Non-citizens 38 0.3% 31.0%
Racial breakdown
White
94.2%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.3%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 10,750 94.2%
Black or African American 71 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 51 0.4%
Asian 84 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 5 0%
Two or more races 381 3.3%
Other 76 0.7%

Households in Pope County

A peek inside Pope County households

Pope County has 4,958 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.6% are families, while the remaining 33.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,958
-0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,658
Family households
3,300
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,658 33.4% -4.9%
Family households 3,300 66.6% 1.7%
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 Pope County

The housing landscape of Pope County

Pope County's housing consists of 6,424 units, with 84.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% 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 2.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,424
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,420 84.4%
1 unit, attached 163 2.5%
2 units 42 0.6%
3 or 4 units 89 1.4%
5 to 9 units 63 1%
10 to 19 units 120 1.9%
20 to 49 units 287 4.5%
50 or more units 55 0.9%
Mobile home 173 2.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 12 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
72
380.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pope County

In Pope County, the median construction year is 1971. About 23.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.1% 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 1,528 23.8% -3.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 253 3.9% -20.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 812 12.6% 12.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 533 8.3% 0.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 818 12.7% -0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 602 9.4% 15.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 548 8.5% -11.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 803 12.5% -5.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 455 7.1% 3.4%
Built in 2020 or later 72 1.1% 380.0%
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.

Pope County occupancy rates

Out of the 4,958 occupied housing units in Pope County, 83.5% are owner-occupied, while 16.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 22.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,958
-0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
816
Owner occupied
4,142
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 816 16.5% -5.7%
Owner occupied 4,142 83.5% 0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
22.8%
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.

Pope County housing costs

Housing costs in Pope County come to a median of $1,004 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $902.

Median housing costs per month
$1,004/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 Pope County
$902/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 Pope County

Pope County education at a glance

About 33% of the population in Pope County went to high school, while 21.4% pursued college studies. Another 20.4% earned an associate degree and 16.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 178 2% 4.1%
High school diploma 2,961 33% -1.0%
College diploma 1,924 21.4% -7.5%
Associate degree 1,832 20.4% 12.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,480 16.5% 1.2%
Graduate degree 604 6.7% 1.5%
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 Pope County

How much people earn in Pope County

The average annual household income in Pope County was $94,724 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,220, reflecting a +5.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pope County
$94,724/year
4.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pope County
$76,220/year
5.6% year-over-year change

Pope County income by age

In Pope County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $96,282. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $97,755 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,012, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,013 in earnings. Overall, 90.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,012 38.4%
25 - 44 $96,282 1.1%
45 - 64 $97,755 3.9%
Over 65 $54,013 2.5%
Above poverty level
10,054
Below poverty level
1,052
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 10,054 90.5% 1.2%
Below poverty level 1,052 9.5% -3.4%

Employment in Pope County

Workforce and job types in Pope County

The job market in Pope County is powered by 5,722 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.8% run their own businesses, 60.9% are employed by private companies, and 13.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,722
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
4,146
Blue collar
1,576
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,146 72.5% -0.3%
Blue collar 1,576 27.5% 2.2%
Employer type
Self employees
15.8%
Private companies
60.9%
Governmental workers
13.5%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 905 15.8% -1.0%
Private companies 3,484 60.9% 2.9%
Governmental workers 773 13.5% -3.0%
Not for profit companies 560 9.8% -7.3%
Unemployment rate
1.3%
40.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Pope County stands at 1.3%, 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 Pope County

How people get around in Pope County

In Pope County, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 81.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
23 min
2.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,641 81.9% -0.7%
Bus or trolleybus 26 0.5% 36.8%
Bicycle 11 0.2% 37.5%
Walk 262 4.6% -1.9%
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 Pope County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56226 215 71 $111,750 $135,382
56244 1,832 635 $85,417 $121,135
56316 1,461 596 $71,111 $91,310
56323 612 271 $76,806 $93,207
56327 729 340 $85,000 $105,385
56334 5,776 2,555 $69,525 $88,601
56343 759 369 $64,659 $93,473
56349 829 328 $98,958 $105,487
56381 2,344 1,041 $77,146 $92,115
56385 917 406 $73,500 $98,606

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FAQs about Pope County demographics 

What is the total population of Pope County?

Pope County has a total population of 11,418 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Pope County?

The gender ratio in Pope County is as follows:
  • 51.3% males (5,862 residents)
  • 48.7% females (5,556 residents)

What is the median age in Pope County?

The median age in Pope County is 45.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Pope County?

The age distribution in Pope County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.5% (1,999 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10% (1,140 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.2% (2,540 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.8% (2,827 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.5% (2,912 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pope County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pope County is as follows:
  • White: 94.2% (10,750 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (71 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (51 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (84 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (5 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.3% (381 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (76 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.6% of the population in Pope County.

How many housing units are there in Pope County?

There are 6,424 housing units in Pope County, 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 Pope County and what is the average household size?

Pope County has a total of 4,958 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pope County?

Pope County has a median household income of $76,220, representing a +5.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 98.7% in Pope County, with a workforce of 5,722 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.5% (4,146 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.5% (1,576 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.8% (905 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.9% (3,484 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.5% (773 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (560 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