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

Total population
14,256
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,467/yr
8.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,021
0.4% year-over-year change

Wadena County population

How many people live in Wadena County

Wadena County is home to 14,256 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Wadena County locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
14,256
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
7,126
Female
50%
7,130
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,126 50% 1.0%
Female 7,130 50% 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 Wadena County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.5% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.8% of the population, while another 24.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
40
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.5%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
21.8%
45 to 64
24.8%
Over 65
20.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,065 21.5% 2.2%
15 to 24 1,673 11.7% 0.3%
25 to 44 3,104 21.8% 0.4%
45 to 64 3,533 24.8% -0.2%
Over 65 2,881 20.2% 1.6%
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 Wadena County, 98.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.5% of locals are Caucasian, 1.7% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 14,043 98.5% 1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 159 1.1% 8.9%
Non-citizens 54 0.4% -66.5%
Racial breakdown
White
86.5%
Black or African American
1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 12,328 86.5%
Black or African American 243 1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 30 0.2%
Asian 44 0.3%
Two or more races 1,574 11%
Other 37 0.3%

Households in Wadena County

A peek inside Wadena County households

Wadena County has 6,081 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.7% are families, while the remaining 38.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,081
3.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,329
Family households
3,752
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,329 38.3% 10.5%
Family households 3,752 61.7% -0.8%
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 Wadena County

The housing landscape of Wadena County

Wadena County's housing consists of 7,021 units, with 77.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.6% 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 6.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,021
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,434 77.4%
1 unit, attached 185 2.6%
2 units 158 2.2%
3 or 4 units 175 2.5%
5 to 9 units 67 1%
10 to 19 units 206 2.9%
20 to 49 units 202 2.9%
50 or more units 110 1.6%
Mobile home 484 6.9%
Homes built since 2020
67
42.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wadena County

In Wadena County, the median construction year is 1974. About 19.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,357 19.3% 3.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 360 5.1% 2.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 606 8.6% -14.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 780 11.1% 16.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 995 14.2% -10.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 691 9.8% 9.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 732 10.4% -5.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 798 11.4% -1.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 635 9% 10.4%
Built in 2020 or later 67 1% 42.5%
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.

Wadena County occupancy rates

Out of the 6,081 occupied housing units in Wadena County, 73.6% are owner-occupied, while 26.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,081
3.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,607
Owner occupied
4,474
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,607 26.4% -0.7%
Owner occupied 4,474 73.6% 4.8%
Unoccupied housing units
13.4%
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.

Wadena County housing costs

Housing costs in Wadena County come to a median of $849 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $746.

Median housing costs per month
$849/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 Wadena County
$746/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 Wadena County

Wadena County education at a glance

About 41.4% of the population in Wadena County went to high school, while 21.8% pursued college studies. Another 16% earned an associate degree and 14% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 257 2.4% -13.8%
High school diploma 4,358 41.4% -1.2%
College diploma 2,294 21.8% -1.5%
Associate degree 1,684 16% -3.1%
Bachelor's degree 1,478 14% 15.9%
Graduate degree 463 4.4% 13.5%
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 Wadena County

How much people earn in Wadena County

The average annual household income in Wadena County was $77,288 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,467, reflecting a +8.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wadena County
$77,288/year
6.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wadena County
$61,467/year
8.1% year-over-year change

Wadena County income by age

In Wadena County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,229. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,950 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,000, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,509 in earnings. Overall, 87.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,000 -16.6%
25 - 44 $83,229 11.6%
45 - 64 $71,950 7.0%
Over 65 $43,509 12.1%
Above poverty level
12,060
Below poverty level
1,671
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,060 87.8% -0.6%
Below poverty level 1,671 12.2% 8.4%

Employment in Wadena County

Workforce and job types in Wadena County

The job market in Wadena County is powered by 6,386 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15% run their own businesses, 62.5% are employed by private companies, and 12.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,386
-2.7% year-over-year change
White collar
4,064
Blue collar
2,322
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,064 63.6% -2.3%
Blue collar 2,322 36.4% -3.4%
Employer type
Self employees
15%
Private companies
62.5%
Governmental workers
12.1%
Not for profit companies
10.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 961 15% -3.6%
Private companies 3,993 62.5% -2.9%
Governmental workers 770 12.1% -9.8%
Not for profit companies 662 10.4% 10.3%
Unemployment rate
5.5%
-8.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wadena County stands at 5.5%, 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 Wadena County

How people get around in Wadena County

Commuting methods vary: 86.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 5,460 86.9% -2.5%
Bus or trolleybus 40 0.6% 135.3%
Ferryboat 6 0.1% 20.0%
Motorcycle 1 0% 0.0%
Bicycle 117 1.9% 33.0%
Walk 100 1.6% -37.5%
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 Wadena County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56464 5,053 1,778 $70,833 $82,787
56477 2,594 1,158 $57,857 $71,517
56479 5,021 2,069 $59,920 $78,004
56481 2,255 875 $73,295 $88,530
56482 7,619 3,244 $64,439 $79,589
56434 182 78 $48,750 $81,728

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FAQs about Wadena County demographics 

What is the total population of Wadena County?

Wadena County has a total population of 14,256 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wadena County?

The gender ratio in Wadena County is as follows:
  • 50% males (7,126 residents)
  • 50% females (7,130 residents)

What is the median age in Wadena County?

The median age in Wadena County is 40.

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

The age distribution in Wadena County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.5% (3,065 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (1,673 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.8% (3,104 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.8% (3,533 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.2% (2,881 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wadena County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wadena County is as follows:
  • White: 86.5% (12,328 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.7% (243 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (30 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (44 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11% (1,574 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (37 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.5% of the population in Wadena County.

How many housing units are there in Wadena County?

There are 7,021 housing units in Wadena County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wadena County has a total of 6,081 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wadena County?

Wadena County has a median household income of $61,467, representing a +8.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.5% in Wadena County, with a workforce of 6,386 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.6% (4,064 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.4% (2,322 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15% (961 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.5% (3,993 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.1% (770 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.4% (662 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