Wells, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,296
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,156/yr
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,200
0.2% year-over-year change

Wells population

How many people live in Wells

Wells is home to 2,296 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Wells locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
2,296
-0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
1,159
Female
49.5%
1,137
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,159 50.5% -6.8%
Female 1,137 49.5% 5.9%
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 Wells is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.5% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.1% of the population, while another 23.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 28.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.5%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
20.1%
45 to 64
23.1%
Over 65
28.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 379 16.5% -11.4%
15 to 24 274 11.9% 5.0%
25 to 44 462 20.1% -6.5%
45 to 64 531 23.1% -4.3%
Over 65 650 28.3% 12.3%
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 Wells, 98.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88% of locals are Caucasian, 1.4% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,256 98.3% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 20 0.9% 11.1%
Non-citizens 20 0.9% -9.1%
Racial breakdown
White
88%
Black or African American
1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.9%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 2,021 88%
Black or African American 31 1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4 0.2%
Asian 29 1.3%
Two or more races 182 7.9%
Other 29 1.3%

Households in Wells

A peek inside Wells households

Wells has 1,121 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.4% are families, while the remaining 42.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,121
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
478
Family households
643
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 478 42.6% 0.2%
Family households 643 57.4% 1.6%
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 Wells

The housing landscape of Wells

Wells's housing consists of 1,200 units, with 84.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
1,200
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,012 84.3%
1 unit, attached 5 0.4%
2 units 35 2.9%
3 or 4 units 70 5.8%
5 to 9 units 27 2.2%
10 to 19 units 9 0.8%
20 to 49 units 42 3.5%
Homes built since 2020
4
0.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wells

In Wells, the median construction year is 1954. About 36.7% 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, 3.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 0.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 440 36.7% -3.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 79 6.6% -18.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 220 18.3% 15.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 122 10.2% -3.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 191 15.9% 9.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 37 3.1% 27.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 62 5.2% -15.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 37 3.1% 12.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8 0.7% -52.9%
Built in 2020 or later 4 0.3% 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.

Wells occupancy rates

Out of the 1,121 occupied housing units in Wells, 76.1% are owner-occupied, while 23.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,121
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
268
Owner occupied
853
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 268 23.9% 0.8%
Owner occupied 853 76.1% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
6.6%
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.

Wells housing costs

Housing costs in Wells come to a median of $709 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $694.

Median housing costs per month
$709/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 Wells
$694/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 Wells

Wells education at a glance

About 40.5% of the population in Wells went to high school, while 23.6% pursued college studies. Another 13.2% earned an associate degree and 15.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 58 3.1% -10.8%
High school diploma 757 40.5% -2.7%
College diploma 441 23.6% -2.0%
Associate degree 246 13.2% 17.7%
Bachelor's degree 291 15.6% 14.1%
Graduate degree 76 4.1% -17.4%
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 Wells

How much people earn in Wells

The average annual household income in Wells was $67,611 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,156, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wells
$67,611/year
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wells
$60,156/year
2.5% year-over-year change

Wells income by age

In Wells, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,897. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $43,125 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $95,272, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,103 in earnings. Overall, 91.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $95,272 31.6%
25 - 44 $83,897 1.0%
45 - 64 $43,125 -16.1%
Over 65 $46,103 7.5%
Above poverty level
2,022
Below poverty level
196
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,022 91.2% 1.2%
Below poverty level 196 8.8% -21.9%

Average renter income in Wells

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Wells, their median household income was $41,176 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 20.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$41,176
Rent-to-income ratio
20.2%
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 Wells

Workforce and job types in Wells

The job market in Wells is powered by 1,147 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 70% are employed by private companies, and 10.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,147
2.8% year-over-year change
White collar
733
Blue collar
414
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 733 63.9% 1.4%
Blue collar 414 36.1% 5.3%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
70%
Governmental workers
10.6%
Not for profit companies
10.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 102 8.9% 6.2%
Private companies 803 70% 7.3%
Governmental workers 122 10.6% -9.6%
Not for profit companies 120 10.5% -12.4%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
-11.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wells stands at 3.4%, 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 Wells

How people get around in Wells

Commuting methods vary: 85.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.6% 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 936 85.2% 0.2%
Walk 73 6.6% 5.8%
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 Wells by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56097 3,487 1,617 $62,264 $80,467

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FAQs about Wells demographics 

What is the total population of Wells?

Wells has a total population of 2,296 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 Wells?

The gender ratio in Wells is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (1,159 residents)
  • 49.5% females (1,137 residents)

What is the median age in Wells?

The median age in Wells is 46.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Wells?

The age distribution in Wells is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.5% (379 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (274 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.1% (462 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.1% (531 residents)
  • Over 65: 28.3% (650 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wells?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wells is as follows:
  • White: 88% (2,021 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.4% (31 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (4 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (29 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.9% (182 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (29 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.3% of the population in Wells.

How many housing units are there in Wells?

There are 1,200 housing units in Wells, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wells has a total of 1,121 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wells?

Wells has a median household income of $60,156, representing a +2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.6% in Wells, with a workforce of 1,147 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.9% (733 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.1% (414 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (102 residents)
  • Private companies: 70% (803 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.6% (122 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.5% (120 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