Waite Park, Stearns County, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,399
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,285/yr
4.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,688
-0.7% year-over-year change

Waite Park population

How many people live in Waite Park

Waite Park is home to 8,399 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.5% of Waite Park locals are male, and 54.5% are female.

Total population
8,399
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.5%
3,820
Female
54.5%
4,579
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,820 45.5% -0.3%
Female 4,579 54.5% 1.6%
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 Waite Park is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.8% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.9% of the population, while another 22.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.8%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
23.9%
45 to 64
22.8%
Over 65
18.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,832 21.8% -0.3%
15 to 24 1,121 13.4% 7.7%
25 to 44 2,007 23.9% 2.1%
45 to 64 1,916 22.8% 3.3%
Over 65 1,523 18.1% -7.2%
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 Waite Park, 71% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 18.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 52% of locals are Caucasian, 35.7% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
71%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.5%
Non-citizens
18.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,964 71% -2.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 880 10.5% -2.3%
Non-citizens 1,555 18.5% 14.6%
Racial breakdown
White
52%
Black or African American
35.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.6%
Other
7%
Value Percent
White 4,369 52%
Black or African American 3,000 35.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 11 0.1%
Asian 131 1.6%
Two or more races 299 3.6%
Other 589 7%

Households in Waite Park

A peek inside Waite Park households

Waite Park has 3,559 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.4% are families, while the remaining 49.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,559
-0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,764
Family households
1,795
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,764 49.6% 8.8%
Family households 1,795 50.4% -8.1%
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 Waite Park

The housing landscape of Waite Park

Waite Park's housing consists of 3,688 units, with 47.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.4% 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 5.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,688
-0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,759 47.7%
1 unit, attached 127 3.4%
2 units 32 0.9%
3 or 4 units 62 1.7%
5 to 9 units 26 0.7%
10 to 19 units 166 4.5%
20 to 49 units 824 22.3%
50 or more units 479 13%
Mobile home 213 5.8%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Waite Park

In Waite Park, the median construction year is 1992. About 7.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.8% 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 271 7.4% -3.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 175 4.8% 32.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 90 2.4% -33.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 179 4.8% -2.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 349 9.5% 20.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 582 15.8% -22.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 965 26.2% 6.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 526 14.3% -1.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 551 14.9% 10.2%
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.

Waite Park occupancy rates

Out of the 3,559 occupied housing units in Waite Park, 51.3% are owner-occupied, while 48.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,559
-0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,733
Owner occupied
1,826
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,733 48.7% 1.5%
Owner occupied 1,826 51.3% -2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
3.5%
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.

Waite Park housing costs

Housing costs in Waite Park come to a median of $1,114 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,117.

Median housing costs per month
$1,114/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 Waite Park
$1,117/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 Waite Park

Waite Park education at a glance

About 36.4% of the population in Waite Park went to high school, while 28% pursued college studies. Another 7% earned an associate degree and 13.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 634 10.2% 26.3%
High school diploma 2,257 36.4% -6.7%
College diploma 1,738 28% -2.4%
Associate degree 431 7% -11.9%
Bachelor's degree 819 13.2% 16.7%
Graduate degree 320 5.2% 8.1%
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 Waite Park

How much people earn in Waite Park

The average annual household income in Waite Park was $70,836 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,285, reflecting a +4.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Waite Park
$70,836/year
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Waite Park
$59,285/year
4.2% year-over-year change

Waite Park income by age

In Waite Park, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $78,622. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,412 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $70,052, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,116 in earnings. Overall, 78.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $70,052 3.7%
25 - 44 $78,622 4.4%
45 - 64 $74,412 11.0%
Over 65 $39,116 4.6%
Above poverty level
6,561
Below poverty level
1,767
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,561 78.8% 4.2%
Below poverty level 1,767 21.2% -11.3%

Average renter income in Waite Park

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Waite Park, their median household income was $36,575 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$36,575
Rent-to-income ratio
36.6%
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 Waite Park

Workforce and job types in Waite Park

The job market in Waite Park is powered by 3,927 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.1% run their own businesses, 71.2% are employed by private companies, and 6.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,927
5.0% year-over-year change
White collar
2,811
Blue collar
1,116
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,811 71.6% 5.7%
Blue collar 1,116 28.4% 3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7.1%
Private companies
71.2%
Governmental workers
6.1%
Not for profit companies
15.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 278 7.1% -5.4%
Private companies 2,797 71.2% 5.5%
Governmental workers 238 6.1% -0.8%
Not for profit companies 614 15.6% 10.6%
Unemployment rate
7.5%
-16.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Waite Park stands at 7.5%, 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 Waite Park

How people get around in Waite Park

Commuting methods vary: 87.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.5% 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 3,355 87.2% 2.6%
Bus or trolleybus 75 2% 15.4%
Bicycle 45 1.2% 2.3%
Walk 136 3.5% -0.7%
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 Waite Park by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56387 7,756 3,307 $59,009 $71,323

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FAQs about Waite Park demographics 

What is the total population of Waite Park?

Waite Park has a total population of 8,399 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Waite Park?

The gender ratio in Waite Park is as follows:
  • 45.5% males (3,820 residents)
  • 54.5% females (4,579 residents)

What is the median age in Waite Park?

The median age in Waite Park is 38.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Waite Park?

The age distribution in Waite Park is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.8% (1,832 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (1,121 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.9% (2,007 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.8% (1,916 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.1% (1,523 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Waite Park?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Waite Park is as follows:
  • White: 52% (4,369 residents)
  • Black or African American: 35.7% (3,000 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (11 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (131 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.6% (299 residents)
  • Other: 7% (589 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 71% of the population in Waite Park.

How many housing units are there in Waite Park?

There are 3,688 housing units in Waite Park, 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 Waite Park and what is the average household size?

Waite Park has a total of 3,559 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Waite Park?

Waite Park has a median household income of $59,285, 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 Waite Park?

The employment rate is 92.5% in Waite Park, with a workforce of 3,927 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.6% (2,811 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.4% (1,116 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.1% (278 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.2% (2,797 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 6.1% (238 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 15.6% (614 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