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

Total population
3,243
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,989/yr
-4.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,896
0.0% year-over-year change

Traverse County population

How many people live in Traverse County

Traverse County is home to 3,243 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Traverse County locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
3,243
-1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
1,585
Female
51.1%
1,658
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,585 48.9% -2.6%
Female 1,658 51.1% 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 Traverse County is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.5% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18.7% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.5%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
18.7%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
25.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 600 18.5% -0.5%
15 to 24 382 11.8% 0.8%
25 to 44 606 18.7% -4.7%
45 to 64 830 25.6% -0.4%
Over 65 825 25.4% -0.4%
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 Traverse County, 97.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.7% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,149 97.1% -1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 40 1.2% 25.0%
Non-citizens 54 1.7% 22.7%
Racial breakdown
White
86.7%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
5.2%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.3%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 2,813 86.7%
Black or African American 20 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 170 5.2%
Asian 4 0.1%
Two or more races 205 6.3%
Other 31 1%

Households in Traverse County

A peek inside Traverse County households

Traverse County has 1,311 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.3% are families, while the remaining 42.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,311
-7.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
560
Family households
751
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 560 42.7% -3.5%
Family households 751 57.3% -9.5%
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 Traverse County

The housing landscape of Traverse County

Traverse County's housing consists of 1,896 units, with 82.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.3% 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 3.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,896
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,565 82.5%
1 unit, attached 5 0.3%
2 units 7 0.4%
3 or 4 units 20 1%
5 to 9 units 50 2.6%
10 to 19 units 107 5.6%
20 to 49 units 64 3.4%
50 or more units 18 1%
Mobile home 60 3.2%
Homes built since 2020
7
16.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Traverse County

In Traverse County, the median construction year is 1962. About 27.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 528 27.8% -4.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 148 7.8% 1.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 236 12.4% 13.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 165 8.7% -2.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 280 14.8% 13.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 110 5.8% -12.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 244 12.9% -6.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 118 6.2% 16.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 60 3.2% -25.9%
Built in 2020 or later 7 0.4% 16.7%
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.

Traverse County occupancy rates

Out of the 1,311 occupied housing units in Traverse County, 81.8% are owner-occupied, while 18.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 30.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,311
-7.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
238
Owner occupied
1,073
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 238 18.2% -16.5%
Owner occupied 1,073 81.8% -4.6%
Unoccupied housing units
30.9%
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.

Traverse County housing costs

Housing costs in Traverse County come to a median of $730 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $615.

Median housing costs per month
$730/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 Traverse County
$615/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 Traverse County

Traverse County education at a glance

About 39.2% of the population in Traverse County went to high school, while 21.8% pursued college studies. Another 20.5% earned an associate degree and 13% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 69 2.7% 23.2%
High school diploma 995 39.2% -1.4%
College diploma 555 21.8% 3.7%
Associate degree 521 20.5% -0.4%
Bachelor's degree 330 13% -0.9%
Graduate degree 71 2.8% -34.3%
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 Traverse County

How much people earn in Traverse County

The average annual household income in Traverse County was $83,949 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,989, reflecting a -4.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Traverse County
$83,949/year
-2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Traverse County
$62,989/year
-4.5% year-over-year change

Traverse County income by age

In Traverse County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $54,323. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,875 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,346, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,309 in earnings. Overall, 88.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,346 -6.4%
25 - 44 $54,323 -4.1%
45 - 64 $76,875 -16.3%
Over 65 $53,309 -2.8%
Above poverty level
2,750
Below poverty level
343
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,750 88.9% -2.1%
Below poverty level 343 11.1% 9.6%

Employment in Traverse County

Workforce and job types in Traverse County

The job market in Traverse County is powered by 1,470 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 25.8% run their own businesses, 49% are employed by private companies, and 17.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,470
-4.7% year-over-year change
White collar
1,144
Blue collar
326
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,144 77.8% -5.7%
Blue collar 326 22.2% -1.2%
Employer type
Self employees
25.8%
Private companies
49%
Governmental workers
17.4%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 379 25.8% 6.2%
Private companies 720 49% -6.9%
Governmental workers 256 17.4% -15.8%
Not for profit companies 115 7.8% 5.5%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
-12.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Traverse County stands at 4.6%, 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 Traverse County

How people get around in Traverse County

Commuting methods vary: 76.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.2% 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 1,077 76.3% -10.1%
Bicycle 5 0.4% 0.0%
Walk 88 6.2% 44.3%
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 Traverse County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56211 484 179 $83,250 $115,773
56219 697 294 $68,833 $109,670
56236 493 179 $79,750 $113,185
56240 796 348 $76,500 $98,514
56248 761 348 $83,000 $89,172
56274 170 52 $118,889 $156,083
56296 1,956 839 $53,527 $73,575
56583 150 64 $71,250 $84,764

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FAQs about Traverse County demographics 

What is the total population of Traverse County?

Traverse County has a total population of 3,243 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 -1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Traverse County?

The gender ratio in Traverse County is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (1,585 residents)
  • 51.1% females (1,658 residents)

What is the median age in Traverse County?

The median age in Traverse County is 46.1.

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

The age distribution in Traverse County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.5% (600 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (382 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18.7% (606 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (830 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.4% (825 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Traverse County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Traverse County is as follows:
  • White: 86.7% (2,813 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (20 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 5.2% (170 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (4 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.3% (205 residents)
  • Other: 1% (31 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.1% of the population in Traverse County.

How many housing units are there in Traverse County?

There are 1,896 housing units in Traverse County, reflecting a 0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Traverse County and what is the average household size?

Traverse County has a total of 1,311 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Traverse County?

Traverse County has a median household income of $62,989, representing a -4.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.4% in Traverse County, with a workforce of 1,470 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.8% (1,144 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.2% (326 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 25.8% (379 residents)
  • Private companies: 49% (720 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.4% (256 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (115 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