South St. Paul, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,611
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$87,994/yr
4.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,639
2.3% year-over-year change

South St. Paul population

How many people live in South St. Paul

South St. Paul is home to 20,611 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.9% of South St. Paul locals are male, and 49.1% are female.

Total population
20,611
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.9%
10,496
Female
49.1%
10,115
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,496 50.9% 4.2%
Female 10,115 49.1% -4.2%
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 South St. Paul is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.6% are children under 15, then 12.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.4% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.6%
15 to 24
12.9%
25 to 44
29.4%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
15%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,837 18.6% 1.2%
15 to 24 2,661 12.9% -5.0%
25 to 44 6,056 29.4% 1.3%
45 to 64 4,966 24.1% -1.3%
Over 65 3,091 15% 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 South St. Paul, 91.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 73.1% of locals are Caucasian, 5.9% are African American and 1.8% have Asian roots. Another 1.7% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 6.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4%
Non-citizens
4.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,869 91.6% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 816 4% -1.0%
Non-citizens 926 4.5% 2.1%
Racial breakdown
White
73.1%
Black or African American
5.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.7%
Asian
1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
10.8%
Other
6.6%
Value Percent
White 15,064 73.1%
Black or African American 1,224 5.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 350 1.7%
Asian 378 1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 17 0.1%
Two or more races 2,222 10.8%
Other 1,356 6.6%

Households in South St. Paul

A peek inside South St. Paul households

South St. Paul has 8,425 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.8% are families, while the remaining 39.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,425
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,304
Family households
5,121
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,304 39.2% 4.2%
Family households 5,121 60.8% -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 South St. Paul

The housing landscape of South St. Paul

South St. Paul's housing consists of 8,639 units, with 67% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,639
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,787 67%
1 unit, attached 428 5%
2 units 542 6.3%
3 or 4 units 168 1.9%
5 to 9 units 236 2.7%
10 to 19 units 395 4.6%
20 to 49 units 345 4%
50 or more units 674 7.8%
Mobile home 64 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
96
772.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South St. Paul

In South St. Paul, the median construction year is 1958. About 22.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.9% 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 1,956 22.6% 0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 697 8.1% -3.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,107 24.4% -1.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 928 10.7% -3.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 975 11.3% -5.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 519 6% 1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 405 4.7% -5.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 794 9.2% 35.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 162 1.9% 30.6%
Built in 2020 or later 96 1.1% 772.7%
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.

South St. Paul occupancy rates

Out of the 8,425 occupied housing units in South St. Paul, 69.7% are owner-occupied, while 30.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,425
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,554
Owner occupied
5,871
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,554 30.3% 9.9%
Owner occupied 5,871 69.7% -1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
2.5%
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.

South St. Paul housing costs

Housing costs in South St. Paul come to a median of $1,416 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,199.

Median housing costs per month
$1,416/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 South St. Paul
$1,199/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 South St. Paul

South St. Paul education at a glance

About 33.3% of the population in South St. Paul went to high school, while 23.1% pursued college studies. Another 10.5% earned an associate degree and 22.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 406 2.6% 11.8%
High school diploma 5,302 33.3% -9.0%
College diploma 3,680 23.1% 3.8%
Associate degree 1,671 10.5% 1.9%
Bachelor's degree 3,563 22.4% 7.6%
Graduate degree 1,281 8.1% 1.1%
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 South St. Paul

How much people earn in South St. Paul

The average annual household income in South St. Paul was $96,589 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $87,994, reflecting a +4.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South St. Paul
$96,589/year
3.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in South St. Paul
$87,994/year
4.2% year-over-year change

South St. Paul income by age

In South St. Paul, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,830. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $106,404 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $82,431, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,563 in earnings. Overall, 91.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $82,431 -0.7%
25 - 44 $86,830 3.4%
45 - 64 $106,404 2.5%
Over 65 $66,563 12.9%
Above poverty level
18,501
Below poverty level
1,697
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,501 91.6% 0.4%
Below poverty level 1,697 8.4% -8.6%

Average renter income in South St. Paul

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in South St. Paul, their median household income was $41,853 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$41,853
Rent-to-income ratio
34.4%
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 South St. Paul

Workforce and job types in South St. Paul

The job market in South St. Paul is powered by 11,409 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 67.9% are employed by private companies, and 12.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,409
1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
8,777
Blue collar
2,632
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,777 76.9% 5.2%
Blue collar 2,632 23.1% -9.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
67.9%
Governmental workers
12.8%
Not for profit companies
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 868 7.6% 29.9%
Private companies 7,749 67.9% 0.3%
Governmental workers 1,465 12.8% -7.6%
Not for profit companies 1,327 11.6% 5.2%
Unemployment rate
5.9%
4.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South St. Paul stands at 5.9%, 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 South St. Paul

How people get around in South St. Paul

Commuting methods vary: 81.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% 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 9,260 81.9% 1.0%
Taxicab 59 0.5% 9.3%
Bus or trolleybus 74 0.6% -37.3%
Motorcycle 18 0.2% 0.0%
Bicycle 33 0.3% -42.1%
Walk 86 0.8% -44.5%
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 South St. Paul by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
55075 20,714 8,467 $88,386 $96,523

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FAQs about South St. Paul demographics 

What is the total population of South St. Paul?

South St. Paul has a total population of 20,611 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in South St. Paul?

The gender ratio in South St. Paul is as follows:
  • 50.9% males (10,496 residents)
  • 49.1% females (10,115 residents)

What is the median age in South St. Paul?

The median age in South St. Paul is 37.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in South St. Paul?

The age distribution in South St. Paul is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.6% (3,837 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.9% (2,661 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.4% (6,056 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (4,966 residents)
  • Over 65: 15% (3,091 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South St. Paul?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South St. Paul is as follows:
  • White: 73.1% (15,064 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.9% (1,224 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.7% (350 residents)
  • Asian: 1.8% (378 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (17 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.8% (2,222 residents)
  • Other: 6.6% (1,356 residents)

What percentage of the population in South St. Paul are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.6% of the population in South St. Paul.

How many housing units are there in South St. Paul?

There are 8,639 housing units in South St. Paul, reflecting a +2.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in South St. Paul and what is the average household size?

South St. Paul has a total of 8,425 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in South St. Paul?

South St. Paul has a median household income of $87,994, representing a +4.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for South St. Paul?

The employment rate is 94.1% in South St. Paul, with a workforce of 11,409 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.9% (8,777 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.1% (2,632 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (868 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.9% (7,749 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.8% (1,465 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.6% (1,327 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