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

Total population
11,205
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$71,699/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,881
-0.5% year-over-year change

Watonwan County population

How many people live in Watonwan County

Watonwan County is home to 11,205 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Watonwan County locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
11,205
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
5,689
Female
49.2%
5,516
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,689 50.8% 0.8%
Female 5,516 49.2% -0.1%
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 Watonwan County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.8% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.9% of the population, while another 24.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.8%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
20.9%
45 to 64
24.7%
Over 65
20.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,441 21.8% 2.7%
15 to 24 1,385 12.4% 5.3%
25 to 44 2,346 20.9% -4.6%
45 to 64 2,768 24.7% 0.1%
Over 65 2,265 20.2% 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 Watonwan County, 86.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.9% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 10.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
86.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.5%
Non-citizens
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,703 86.6% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 502 4.5% 6.1%
Non-citizens 1,000 8.9% 10.5%
Racial breakdown
White
73.9%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.4%
Other
14.4%
Value Percent
White 8,278 73.9%
Black or African American 4 0%
American Indian and Alaska Native 118 1%
Asian 36 0.3%
Two or more races 1,160 10.4%
Other 1,609 14.4%

Households in Watonwan County

A peek inside Watonwan County households

Watonwan County has 4,227 households, with an average of 3 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
4,227
-2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,369
Family households
2,858
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,369 32.4% 1.4%
Family households 2,858 67.6% -3.6%
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 Watonwan County

The housing landscape of Watonwan County

Watonwan County's housing consists of 4,881 units, with 82.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.3% 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 2.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,881
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,043 82.8%
1 unit, attached 62 1.3%
2 units 90 1.8%
3 or 4 units 119 2.4%
5 to 9 units 82 1.7%
10 to 19 units 94 1.9%
20 to 49 units 147 3%
50 or more units 106 2.2%
Mobile home 138 2.8%
Homes built since 2020
1
0.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Watonwan County

In Watonwan County, the median construction year is 1962. About 30.5% 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.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,489 30.5% -5.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 356 7.3% 3.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 496 10.2% 10.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 591 12.1% 6.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 598 12.2% -8.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 535 11% 11.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 278 5.7% -18.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 429 8.8% 7.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 108 2.2% 14.9%
Built in 2020 or later 1 0% 0.0%
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.

Watonwan County occupancy rates

Out of the 4,227 occupied housing units in Watonwan County, 77.8% are owner-occupied, while 22.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,227
-2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
937
Owner occupied
3,290
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 937 22.2% -0.4%
Owner occupied 3,290 77.8% -2.5%
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.

Watonwan County housing costs

Housing costs in Watonwan County come to a median of $836 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $834.

Median housing costs per month
$836/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 Watonwan County
$834/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 Watonwan County

Watonwan County education at a glance

About 40.1% of the population in Watonwan County went to high school, while 26.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.5% earned an associate degree and 12.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 557 6.8% 8.0%
High school diploma 3,311 40.1% -3.2%
College diploma 2,197 26.6% 7.0%
Associate degree 866 10.5% -2.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,011 12.2% -6.0%
Graduate degree 315 3.8% -12.3%
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 Watonwan County

How much people earn in Watonwan County

The average annual household income in Watonwan County was $93,447 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $71,699, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Watonwan County
$93,447/year
4.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Watonwan County
$71,699/year
1.6% year-over-year change

Watonwan County income by age

In Watonwan County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $74,375. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,761 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,757 in earnings. Overall, 86.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,750 5.2%
25 - 44 $74,375 -8.3%
45 - 64 $95,761 16.6%
Over 65 $49,757 -2.3%
Above poverty level
9,427
Below poverty level
1,417
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,427 86.9% -0.1%
Below poverty level 1,417 13.1% 0.7%

Employment in Watonwan County

Workforce and job types in Watonwan County

The job market in Watonwan County is powered by 5,142 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.9% run their own businesses, 65.1% are employed by private companies, and 13.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,142
-2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
3,303
Blue collar
1,839
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,303 64.2% -2.7%
Blue collar 1,839 35.8% -2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
12.9%
Private companies
65.1%
Governmental workers
13.7%
Not for profit companies
8.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 664 12.9% -3.4%
Private companies 3,346 65.1% -0.9%
Governmental workers 703 13.7% -13.3%
Not for profit companies 429 8.3% 4.9%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
-7.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Watonwan County stands at 5.2%, 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 Watonwan County

How people get around in Watonwan County

Commuting methods vary: 84.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.4% 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 4,223 84.1% -5.1%
Bus or trolleybus 65 1.3% -28.6%
Bicycle 53 1.1% 960.0%
Walk 220 4.4% -2.2%
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 Watonwan County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56022 63 41 $65,750 $66,817
56056 55 28 $105,000 $99,632
56060 400 152 $80,093 $84,149
56062 3,234 1,157 $76,713 $98,015
56081 6,172 2,373 $67,337 $94,323
56088 2,071 849 $71,354 $81,611
56120 983 399 $77,188 $85,513
56160 224 82 $66,667 $87,983
56162 313 115 $88,625 $93,932

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FAQs about Watonwan County demographics 

What is the total population of Watonwan County?

Watonwan County has a total population of 11,205 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Watonwan County?

The gender ratio in Watonwan County is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (5,689 residents)
  • 49.2% females (5,516 residents)

What is the median age in Watonwan County?

The median age in Watonwan County is 40.8.

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

The age distribution in Watonwan County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.8% (2,441 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (1,385 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.9% (2,346 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.7% (2,768 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.2% (2,265 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Watonwan County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Watonwan County is as follows:
  • White: 73.9% (8,278 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (4 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (118 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (36 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.4% (1,160 residents)
  • Other: 14.4% (1,609 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 86.6% of the population in Watonwan County.

How many housing units are there in Watonwan County?

There are 4,881 housing units in Watonwan County, reflecting a -0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Watonwan County has a total of 4,227 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Watonwan County?

Watonwan County has a median household income of $71,699, 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 Watonwan County?

The employment rate is 94.8% in Watonwan County, with a workforce of 5,142 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.2% (3,303 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.8% (1,839 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.9% (664 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.1% (3,346 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.7% (703 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.3% (429 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