Sleepy Eye, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,444
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,911/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,666
0.7% year-over-year change

Sleepy Eye population

How many people live in Sleepy Eye

Sleepy Eye is home to 3,444 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Sleepy Eye locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
3,444
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
1,725
Female
49.9%
1,719
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,725 50.1% -0.1%
Female 1,719 49.9% 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 Sleepy Eye is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.5% are children under 15, then 9.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 22.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.5%
15 to 24
9.2%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
22.8%
Over 65
21.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 742 21.5% 10.8%
15 to 24 318 9.2% -21.1%
25 to 44 850 24.7% 9.8%
45 to 64 786 22.8% -9.2%
Over 65 748 21.7% 3.2%
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 Sleepy Eye, 92% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.9% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.2%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,170 92% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 144 4.2% 73.5%
Non-citizens 130 3.8% -37.8%
Racial breakdown
White
83.9%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.6%
Other
5%
Value Percent
White 2,888 83.9%
Black or African American 9 0.3%
Asian 8 0.2%
Two or more races 365 10.6%
Other 174 5%

Households in Sleepy Eye

A peek inside Sleepy Eye households

Sleepy Eye has 1,481 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59% are families, while the remaining 41% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,481
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
608
Family households
873
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 608 41% 2.2%
Family households 873 59% -0.2%
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 Sleepy Eye

The housing landscape of Sleepy Eye

Sleepy Eye's housing consists of 1,666 units, with 81.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.6% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,666
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,355 81.3%
1 unit, attached 60 3.6%
2 units 11 0.7%
3 or 4 units 45 2.7%
5 to 9 units 71 4.3%
10 to 19 units 10 0.6%
20 to 49 units 41 2.5%
50 or more units 67 4%
Mobile home 6 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sleepy Eye

In Sleepy Eye, the median construction year is 1957. About 29.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.3% going up by 1949. 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 490 29.4% 12.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 155 9.3% -9.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 253 15.2% -9.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 113 6.8% 3.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 131 7.9% -14.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 221 13.3% 1.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 87 5.2% -7.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 86 5.2% -7.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 130 7.8% 31.3%
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.

Sleepy Eye occupancy rates

Out of the 1,481 occupied housing units in Sleepy Eye, 78.2% are owner-occupied, while 21.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,481
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
323
Owner occupied
1,158
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 323 21.8% 26.7%
Owner occupied 1,158 78.2% -4.7%
Unoccupied housing units
11.1%
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.

Sleepy Eye housing costs

Housing costs in Sleepy Eye come to a median of $841 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $782.

Median housing costs per month
$841/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 Sleepy Eye
$782/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 Sleepy Eye

Sleepy Eye education at a glance

About 44.4% of the population in Sleepy Eye went to high school, while 23.7% pursued college studies. Another 10.4% earned an associate degree and 15.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 66 2.5% -22.4%
High school diploma 1,182 44.4% 4.5%
College diploma 631 23.7% 7.7%
Associate degree 276 10.4% -13.2%
Bachelor's degree 413 15.5% -19.6%
Graduate degree 94 3.5% 67.9%
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 Sleepy Eye

How much people earn in Sleepy Eye

The average annual household income in Sleepy Eye was $86,846 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,911, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sleepy Eye
$86,846/year
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sleepy Eye
$66,911/year
3.2% year-over-year change

Sleepy Eye income by age

In Sleepy Eye, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $79,688. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,019 overall. Overall, 92.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $79,688 -3.2%
45 - 64 $77,019 5.4%
Over 65 $41,759 3.0%
Above poverty level
3,057
Below poverty level
259
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,057 92.2% 0.4%
Below poverty level 259 7.8% 6.2%

Average renter income in Sleepy Eye

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sleepy Eye, their median household income was $30,536 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$30,536
Rent-to-income ratio
30.7%
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 Sleepy Eye

Workforce and job types in Sleepy Eye

The job market in Sleepy Eye is powered by 1,818 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.8% run their own businesses, 71.6% are employed by private companies, and 16.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,818
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
1,295
Blue collar
523
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,295 71.2% 0.5%
Blue collar 523 28.8% 4.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7.8%
Private companies
71.6%
Governmental workers
16.6%
Not for profit companies
4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 141 7.8% -5.4%
Private companies 1,302 71.6% -2.8%
Governmental workers 302 16.6% 49.5%
Not for profit companies 73 4% -26.3%
Unemployment rate
2.7%
2.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sleepy Eye stands at 2.7%, 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 Sleepy Eye

How people get around in Sleepy Eye

Commuting methods vary: 89.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.7% 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 1,615 89.7% 0.4%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0.1% -89.5%
Walk 66 3.7% 22.2%
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 Sleepy Eye by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56085 5,047 2,120 $73,000 $93,737

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FAQs about Sleepy Eye demographics 

What is the total population of Sleepy Eye?

Sleepy Eye has a total population of 3,444 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sleepy Eye?

The gender ratio in Sleepy Eye is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (1,725 residents)
  • 49.9% females (1,719 residents)

What is the median age in Sleepy Eye?

The median age in Sleepy Eye is 40.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sleepy Eye?

The age distribution in Sleepy Eye is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.5% (742 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.2% (318 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (850 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.8% (786 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.7% (748 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sleepy Eye?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sleepy Eye is as follows:
  • White: 83.9% (2,888 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (9 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (8 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.6% (365 residents)
  • Other: 5% (174 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92% of the population in Sleepy Eye.

How many housing units are there in Sleepy Eye?

There are 1,666 housing units in Sleepy Eye, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sleepy Eye has a total of 1,481 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sleepy Eye?

Sleepy Eye has a median household income of $66,911, representing a +3.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Sleepy Eye?

The employment rate is 97.3% in Sleepy Eye, with a workforce of 1,818 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.2% (1,295 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.8% (523 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.8% (141 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.6% (1,302 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.6% (302 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4% (73 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