Wadena, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,419
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,080/yr
22.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,086
-3.9% year-over-year change

Wadena population

How many people live in Wadena

Wadena is home to 4,419 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48% of Wadena locals are male, and 52% are female.

Total population
4,419
1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48%
2,121
Female
52%
2,298
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,121 48% -1.4%
Female 2,298 52% 4.0%
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 is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.4% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.9% of the population, while another 24.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.4%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
22.9%
45 to 64
24.7%
Over 65
18.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 988 22.4% 8.6%
15 to 24 525 11.9% -6.6%
25 to 44 1,010 22.9% 0.9%
45 to 64 1,093 24.7% 4.5%
Over 65 803 18.2% -4.6%
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, 98.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.2% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 19.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1%
Non-citizens
0.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,365 98.8% 4.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 46 1% 15.0%
Non-citizens 8 0.2% -93.7%
Racial breakdown
White
77.9%
Black or African American
1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
19.9%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 3,444 77.9%
Black or African American 81 1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 7 0.2%
Two or more races 879 19.9%
Other 8 0.2%

Households in Wadena

A peek inside Wadena households

Wadena has 2,042 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.7% are families, while the remaining 44.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,042
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
904
Family households
1,138
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 904 44.3% 13.0%
Family households 1,138 55.7% -6.0%
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

The housing landscape of Wadena

Wadena's housing consists of 2,086 units, with 63% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
2,086
-3.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,315 63%
1 unit, attached 146 7%
2 units 155 7.4%
3 or 4 units 117 5.6%
5 to 9 units 56 2.7%
10 to 19 units 140 6.7%
20 to 49 units 53 2.5%
50 or more units 104 5%
Homes built since 2020
14
7.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wadena

In Wadena, the median construction year is 1964. About 23.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 16.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 487 23.4% 0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 153 7.3% 17.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 230 11% -37.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 408 19.6% 31.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 118 5.7% -50.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 64 3.1% -8.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 138 6.6% -7.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 137 6.6% -0.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 337 16.2% 22.1%
Built in 2020 or later 14 0.7% 7.7%
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.

Wadena occupancy rates

Out of the 2,042 occupied housing units in Wadena, 58.1% are owner-occupied, while 41.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,042
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
856
Owner occupied
1,186
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 856 41.9% -10.2%
Owner occupied 1,186 58.1% 12.2%
Unoccupied housing units
2.1%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Wadena come to a median of $781 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $684.

Median housing costs per month
$781/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
$684/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

Wadena education at a glance

About 41.9% of the population in Wadena went to high school, while 19.7% pursued college studies. Another 19.2% earned an associate degree and 12.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 101 3.1% -12.9%
High school diploma 1,352 41.9% -8.5%
College diploma 635 19.7% 0.3%
Associate degree 621 19.2% -10.9%
Bachelor's degree 393 12.2% 47.7%
Graduate degree 126 3.9% 7.7%
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

How much people earn in Wadena

The average annual household income in Wadena was $68,127 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +17.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,080, reflecting a +22.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wadena
$68,127/year
17.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wadena
$56,080/year
22.3% year-over-year change

Wadena income by age

In Wadena, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $57,813. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,555 overall. Overall, 83.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $57,813 4.0%
45 - 64 $67,555 50.3%
Over 65 $35,463 3.6%
Above poverty level
3,557
Below poverty level
706
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,557 83.4% -2.1%
Below poverty level 706 16.6% 18.1%

Average renter income in Wadena

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Wadena, their median household income was $24,135 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,135
Rent-to-income ratio
34%
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 Wadena

Workforce and job types in Wadena

The job market in Wadena is powered by 1,986 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 58.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 41.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.9% run their own businesses, 66.3% are employed by private companies, and 7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,986
-7.0% year-over-year change
White collar
1,165
Blue collar
821
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,165 58.7% -4.7%
Blue collar 821 41.3% -10.0%
Employer type
Self employees
15.9%
Private companies
66.3%
Governmental workers
7%
Not for profit companies
10.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 316 15.9% -15.1%
Private companies 1,316 66.3% -6.9%
Governmental workers 140 7% -21.4%
Not for profit companies 214 10.8% 24.4%
Unemployment rate
6.2%
-29.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wadena stands at 6.2%, 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

How people get around in Wadena

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,748 87.9% -8.1%
Bus or trolleybus 17 0.9% 183.3%
Bicycle 112 5.6% 27.3%
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 Wadena by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56482 7,619 3,244 $64,439 $79,589

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FAQs about Wadena demographics 

What is the total population of Wadena?

Wadena has a total population of 4,419 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 +1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wadena?

The gender ratio in Wadena is as follows:
  • 48% males (2,121 residents)
  • 52% females (2,298 residents)

What is the median age in Wadena?

The median age in Wadena is 39.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Wadena?

The age distribution in Wadena is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.4% (988 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (525 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.9% (1,010 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.7% (1,093 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.2% (803 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wadena?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wadena is as follows:
  • White: 77.9% (3,444 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.8% (81 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (7 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.9% (879 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (8 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.8% of the population in Wadena.

How many housing units are there in Wadena?

There are 2,086 housing units in Wadena, reflecting a -3.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wadena has a total of 2,042 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wadena?

Wadena has a median household income of $56,080, representing a +22.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.8% in Wadena, with a workforce of 1,986 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 58.7% (1,165 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 41.3% (821 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.9% (316 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.3% (1,316 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 7% (140 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.8% (214 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