Grand Island, NE demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
52,884
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,795/yr
2.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,503
0.6% year-over-year change

Grand Island population

How many people live in Grand Island

Grand Island is home to 52,884 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.1% of Grand Island locals are male, and 48.9% are female.

Total population
52,884
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.1%
27,028
Female
48.9%
25,856
Value Percent YoY change
Male 27,028 51.1% 0.4%
Female 25,856 48.9% 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 Grand Island is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.4% are children under 15, then 13.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26% of the population, while another 22.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.4%
15 to 24
13.8%
25 to 44
26%
45 to 64
22.1%
Over 65
14.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 12,346 23.4% -1.4%
15 to 24 7,303 13.8% 3.6%
25 to 44 13,730 26% -0.4%
45 to 64 11,699 22.1% 0.6%
Over 65 7,806 14.8% 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 Grand Island, 79.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 60.2% of locals are Caucasian, 4.6% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 14% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
79.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8%
Non-citizens
12.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 42,042 79.5% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,216 8% 1.0%
Non-citizens 6,626 12.5% 8.7%
Racial breakdown
White
60.2%
Black or African American
4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
14%
Other
19.1%
Value Percent
White 31,836 60.2%
Black or African American 2,423 4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 490 0.9%
Asian 665 1.3%
Two or more races 7,383 14%
Other 10,087 19.1%

Households in Grand Island

A peek inside Grand Island households

Grand Island has 20,765 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 62.4% are families, while the remaining 37.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
20,765
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
7,798
Family households
12,967
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,798 37.6% 1.3%
Family households 12,967 62.4% 0.4%
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 Grand Island

The housing landscape of Grand Island

Grand Island's housing consists of 21,503 units, with 61.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.6% 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 3.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,503
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,275 61.7%
1 unit, attached 993 4.6%
2 units 713 3.3%
3 or 4 units 1,590 7.4%
5 to 9 units 1,412 6.6%
10 to 19 units 865 4%
20 to 49 units 784 3.6%
50 or more units 1,103 5.1%
Mobile home 754 3.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 14 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
199
11.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Grand Island

In Grand Island, the median construction year is 1975. About 15.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,267 15.2% 18.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 964 4.5% 1.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,421 11.3% -5.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,446 11.4% -8.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,446 16% -8.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,670 12.4% -2.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,147 10% 4.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,919 8.9% 15.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,024 9.4% -1.2%
Built in 2020 or later 199 0.9% 11.8%
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.

Grand Island occupancy rates

Out of the 20,765 occupied housing units in Grand Island, 57.8% are owner-occupied, while 42.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
20,765
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,765
Owner occupied
12,000
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,765 42.2% 5.0%
Owner occupied 12,000 57.8% -2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
3.4%
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.

Grand Island housing costs

Housing costs in Grand Island come to a median of $1,016 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $947.

Median housing costs per month
$1,016/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 Grand Island
$947/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 Grand Island

Grand Island education at a glance

About 39.9% of the population in Grand Island went to high school, while 21.7% pursued college studies. Another 9.6% earned an associate degree and 12.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,678 9.7% 6.0%
High school diploma 15,151 39.9% -2.3%
College diploma 8,227 21.7% -4.2%
Associate degree 3,649 9.6% 16.8%
Bachelor's degree 4,737 12.5% 2.9%
Graduate degree 2,515 6.6% 1.5%
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 Grand Island

How much people earn in Grand Island

The average annual household income in Grand Island was $86,240 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,795, reflecting a +2.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Grand Island
$86,240/year
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Grand Island
$63,795/year
2.2% year-over-year change

Grand Island income by age

In Grand Island, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $74,234. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,995 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,617, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,630 in earnings. Overall, 84.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,617 1.1%
25 - 44 $74,234 -1.2%
45 - 64 $80,995 4.9%
Over 65 $45,630 3.8%
Above poverty level
43,513
Below poverty level
7,826
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 43,513 84.8% -2.7%
Below poverty level 7,826 15.2% 23.3%

Average renter income in Grand Island

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Grand Island, their median household income was $41,371 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$41,371
Rent-to-income ratio
27.5%
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 Grand Island

Workforce and job types in Grand Island

The job market in Grand Island is powered by 25,790 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 72.1% are employed by private companies, and 11.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
25,790
-0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
16,241
Blue collar
9,549
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 16,241 63% 0.9%
Blue collar 9,549 37% -3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
72.1%
Governmental workers
11.8%
Not for profit companies
7.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,319 9% 9.8%
Private companies 18,584 72.1% -2.1%
Governmental workers 3,047 11.8% 1.7%
Not for profit companies 1,840 7.1% -2.6%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
28.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Grand Island stands at 4.6%, 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 Grand Island

How people get around in Grand Island

In Grand Island, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
17 min
-1.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 23,354 92.8% -2.0%
Taxicab 118 0.5% 34.1%
Bus or trolleybus 158 0.6% 100.0%
Motorcycle 9 0% -55.0%
Bicycle 52 0.2% 13.0%
Walk 117 0.5% -25.5%
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 Grand Island by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
68801 30,824 11,391 $63,617 $82,783
68803 25,534 10,872 $73,463 $94,607

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FAQs about Grand Island demographics 

What is the total population of Grand Island?

Grand Island has a total population of 52,884 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Grand Island?

The gender ratio in Grand Island is as follows:
  • 51.1% males (27,028 residents)
  • 48.9% females (25,856 residents)

What is the median age in Grand Island?

The median age in Grand Island is 34.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Grand Island?

The age distribution in Grand Island is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.4% (12,346 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.8% (7,303 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26% (13,730 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.1% (11,699 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.8% (7,806 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Grand Island?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Grand Island is as follows:
  • White: 60.2% (31,836 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.6% (2,423 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (490 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (665 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14% (7,383 residents)
  • Other: 19.1% (10,087 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 79.5% of the population in Grand Island.

How many housing units are there in Grand Island?

There are 21,503 housing units in Grand Island, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Grand Island has a total of 20,765 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Grand Island?

Grand Island has a median household income of $63,795, representing a +2.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Grand Island?

The employment rate is 95.4% in Grand Island, with a workforce of 25,790 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63% (16,241 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37% (9,549 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (2,319 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.1% (18,584 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.8% (3,047 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.1% (1,840 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