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

Total population
37,439
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$84,196/yr
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,995
0.7% year-over-year change

Steele County population

How many people live in Steele County

Steele County is home to 37,439 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Steele County locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
37,439
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
18,770
Female
49.9%
18,669
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,770 50.1% -0.5%
Female 18,669 49.9% 0.7%
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 Steele County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
19.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,287 19.5% -1.6%
15 to 24 4,514 12.1% -1.1%
25 to 44 9,079 24.2% 1.0%
45 to 64 9,372 25% -0.9%
Over 65 7,187 19.2% 2.8%
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 Steele County, 95% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.8% of locals are Caucasian, 3.4% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.9%
Non-citizens
2.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 35,576 95% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,072 2.9% -2.6%
Non-citizens 791 2.1% -18.3%
Racial breakdown
White
85.8%
Black or African American
3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 32,125 85.8%
Black or African American 1,253 3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 129 0.3%
Asian 275 0.7%
Two or more races 2,614 7%
Other 1,043 2.8%

Households in Steele County

A peek inside Steele County households

Steele County has 15,138 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.5% are families, while the remaining 35.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,138
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,375
Family households
9,763
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,375 35.5% 7.7%
Family households 9,763 64.5% -2.5%
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 Steele County

The housing landscape of Steele County

Steele County's housing consists of 15,995 units, with 75% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.6% 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 4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,995
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,988 75%
1 unit, attached 729 4.6%
2 units 347 2.2%
3 or 4 units 293 1.8%
5 to 9 units 280 1.8%
10 to 19 units 518 3.2%
20 to 49 units 746 4.7%
50 or more units 418 2.6%
Mobile home 646 4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 30 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
131
101.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Steele County

In Steele County, the median construction year is 1975. About 19.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,058 19.1% 0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 634 4% -2.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,641 10.3% 4.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,190 7.4% -13.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,768 17.3% -1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,516 9.5% 1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,846 11.5% 6.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,281 14.3% -0.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 930 5.8% 10.6%
Built in 2020 or later 131 0.8% 101.5%
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.

Steele County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,138 occupied housing units in Steele County, 79.4% are owner-occupied, while 20.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,138
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,118
Owner occupied
12,020
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,118 20.6% 3.4%
Owner occupied 12,020 79.4% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
5.4%
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.

Steele County housing costs

Housing costs in Steele County come to a median of $1,182 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,061.

Median housing costs per month
$1,182/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 Steele County
$1,061/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 Steele County

Steele County education at a glance

About 36.2% of the population in Steele County went to high school, while 23.3% pursued college studies. Another 11.8% earned an associate degree and 19% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 648 2.3% 3.2%
High school diploma 10,273 36.2% 1.6%
College diploma 6,598 23.3% 4.9%
Associate degree 3,345 11.8% 0.2%
Bachelor's degree 5,387 19% -1.9%
Graduate degree 2,093 7.4% -11.1%
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 Steele County

How much people earn in Steele County

The average annual household income in Steele County was $101,587 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 $84,196, reflecting a +0.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Steele County
$101,587/year
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Steele County
$84,196/year
0.9% year-over-year change

Steele County income by age

In Steele County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $100,909. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $102,361 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $49,375, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,142 in earnings. Overall, 91.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $49,375 -9.3%
25 - 44 $100,909 2.3%
45 - 64 $102,361 0.8%
Over 65 $54,142 -0.4%
Above poverty level
33,587
Below poverty level
3,014
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 33,587 91.8% -0.7%
Below poverty level 3,014 8.2% 12.2%

Employment in Steele County

Workforce and job types in Steele County

The job market in Steele County is powered by 18,834 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 66.4% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
18,834
-0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
13,354
Blue collar
5,480
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,354 70.9% 0.6%
Blue collar 5,480 29.1% -2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
66.4%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,583 8.4% -6.6%
Private companies 12,506 66.4% -0.7%
Governmental workers 2,745 14.6% -4.3%
Not for profit companies 2,000 10.6% 14.2%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
11.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Steele County stands at 3.4%, 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 Steele County

How people get around in Steele County

In Steele County, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
0.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,037 87% 0.4%
Taxicab 15 0.1% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 104 0.6% -7.1%
Ferryboat 66 0.4% -25.0%
Motorcycle 48 0.3% -17.2%
Bicycle 57 0.3% 3.6%
Walk 419 2.3% -23.1%
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 Steele County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
55049 2,636 945 $90,625 $111,034
55060 29,599 12,124 $84,906 $101,474
55917 3,410 1,384 $75,208 $97,701
55924 1,170 463 $78,558 $92,980
56026 2,124 815 $100,169 $108,961
56046 157 49 $61,042 $70,098
56072 2,228 913 $80,417 $92,617

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FAQs about Steele County demographics 

What is the total population of Steele County?

Steele County has a total population of 37,439 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 Steele County?

The gender ratio in Steele County is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (18,770 residents)
  • 49.9% females (18,669 residents)

What is the median age in Steele County?

The median age in Steele County is 40.5.

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

The age distribution in Steele County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (7,287 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (4,514 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (9,079 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (9,372 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.2% (7,187 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Steele County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Steele County is as follows:
  • White: 85.8% (32,125 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.4% (1,253 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (129 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (275 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7% (2,614 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (1,043 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95% of the population in Steele County.

How many housing units are there in Steele County?

There are 15,995 housing units in Steele County, 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 Steele County and what is the average household size?

Steele County has a total of 15,138 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Steele County?

Steele County has a median household income of $84,196, representing a +0.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.6% in Steele County, with a workforce of 18,834 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.9% (13,354 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.1% (5,480 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (1,583 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.4% (12,506 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (2,745 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.6% (2,000 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