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

Total population
18,885
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,261/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,922
0.1% year-over-year change

Waseca County population

How many people live in Waseca County

Waseca County is home to 18,885 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Waseca County locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
18,885
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
9,155
Female
51.5%
9,730
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,155 48.5% 0.8%
Female 9,730 51.5% -1.5%
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 Waseca County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 12.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.5% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
12.6%
25 to 44
24.5%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
19.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,449 18.3% -0.9%
15 to 24 2,372 12.6% 2.3%
25 to 44 4,619 24.5% -6.0%
45 to 64 4,831 25.6% 2.0%
Over 65 3,614 19.1% 3.0%
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 Waseca County, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 1.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.8%
Non-citizens
1.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,294 96.9% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 338 1.8% 52.2%
Non-citizens 253 1.3% -32.7%
Racial breakdown
White
91.4%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
1.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.5%
Other
1.7%
Value Percent
White 17,257 91.4%
Black or African American 191 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 106 0.6%
Asian 354 1.9%
Two or more races 655 3.5%
Other 322 1.7%

Households in Waseca County

A peek inside Waseca County households

Waseca County has 7,477 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.6% are families, while the remaining 32.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,477
-0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,420
Family households
5,057
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,420 32.4% 2.0%
Family households 5,057 67.6% -1.5%
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 Waseca County

The housing landscape of Waseca County

Waseca County's housing consists of 7,922 units, with 80.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.2% 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 2.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,922
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,391 80.7%
1 unit, attached 257 3.2%
2 units 155 2%
3 or 4 units 70 0.9%
5 to 9 units 188 2.4%
10 to 19 units 189 2.4%
20 to 49 units 289 3.6%
50 or more units 182 2.3%
Mobile home 199 2.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2 0%
Homes built since 2020
109
419.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Waseca County

In Waseca County, the median construction year is 1970. About 23.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,873 23.6% 2.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 521 6.6% -9.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 773 9.8% -6.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 726 9.2% -3.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,688 21.3% 15.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 581 7.3% -17.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 691 8.7% -18.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 749 9.4% 4.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 211 2.7% 17.9%
Built in 2020 or later 109 1.4% 419.1%
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.

Waseca County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,477 occupied housing units in Waseca County, 80.7% are owner-occupied, while 19.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,477
-0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,440
Owner occupied
6,037
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,440 19.3% -7.4%
Owner occupied 6,037 80.7% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
5.6%
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.

Waseca County housing costs

Housing costs in Waseca County come to a median of $1,057 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $883.

Median housing costs per month
$1,057/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 Waseca County
$883/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 Waseca County

Waseca County education at a glance

About 40.9% of the population in Waseca County went to high school, while 23.3% pursued college studies. Another 13.7% earned an associate degree and 15.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 267 1.8% -12.5%
High school diploma 5,972 40.9% -1.5%
College diploma 3,398 23.3% 3.0%
Associate degree 2,002 13.7% 0.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,293 15.7% 1.1%
Graduate degree 657 4.5% 1.4%
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 Waseca County

How much people earn in Waseca County

The average annual household income in Waseca County was $90,562 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,261, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Waseca County
$90,562/year
-3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Waseca County
$76,261/year
1.6% year-over-year change

Waseca County income by age

In Waseca County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $94,615. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $82,083 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,000, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,521 in earnings. Overall, 92.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,000 10.1%
25 - 44 $94,615 8.1%
45 - 64 $82,083 -6.6%
Over 65 $53,521 7.5%
Above poverty level
16,400
Below poverty level
1,301
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,400 92.6% -1.3%
Below poverty level 1,301 7.4% 0.8%

Employment in Waseca County

Workforce and job types in Waseca County

The job market in Waseca County is powered by 9,332 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11% run their own businesses, 65.9% are employed by private companies, and 12.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,332
-0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
6,498
Blue collar
2,834
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,498 69.6% 1.4%
Blue collar 2,834 30.4% -5.2%
Employer type
Self employees
11%
Private companies
65.9%
Governmental workers
12.4%
Not for profit companies
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,031 11% -0.1%
Private companies 6,153 65.9% -1.6%
Governmental workers 1,158 12.4% -8.0%
Not for profit companies 990 10.6% 15.8%
Unemployment rate
2.5%
-38.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Waseca County stands at 2.5%, 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 Waseca County

How people get around in Waseca County

In Waseca County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
-0.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,264 89.6% -1.1%
Bus or trolleybus 15 0.2% 7.1%
Motorcycle 13 0.1% -7.1%
Walk 228 2.5% 13.4%
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 Waseca County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56028 1,018 463 $93,375 $105,856
56048 4,025 1,564 $85,532 $103,091
56068 1,041 441 $74,250 $96,191
56072 2,228 913 $80,417 $92,617
56078 451 161 $80,208 $93,483
56091 256 124 $56,250 $71,842
56093 12,672 4,996 $73,038 $87,365
56096 2,953 1,282 $87,679 $95,106

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FAQs about Waseca County demographics 

What is the total population of Waseca County?

Waseca County has a total population of 18,885 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 -0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Waseca County?

The gender ratio in Waseca County is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (9,155 residents)
  • 51.5% females (9,730 residents)

What is the median age in Waseca County?

The median age in Waseca County is 40.6.

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

The age distribution in Waseca County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (3,449 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.6% (2,372 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.5% (4,619 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (4,831 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.1% (3,614 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Waseca County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Waseca County is as follows:
  • White: 91.4% (17,257 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (191 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (106 residents)
  • Asian: 1.9% (354 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.5% (655 residents)
  • Other: 1.7% (322 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Waseca County.

How many housing units are there in Waseca County?

There are 7,922 housing units in Waseca County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Waseca County has a total of 7,477 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Waseca County?

Waseca County has a median household income of $76,261, representing a +1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.5% in Waseca County, with a workforce of 9,332 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.6% (6,498 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.4% (2,834 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11% (1,031 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.9% (6,153 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.4% (1,158 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.6% (990 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