Ashland County, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,080
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,462/yr
8.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,445
0.5% year-over-year change

Ashland County population

How many people live in Ashland County

Ashland County is home to 16,080 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.9% of Ashland County locals are male, and 49.1% are female.

Total population
16,080
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.9%
8,178
Female
49.1%
7,902
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,178 50.9% -0.9%
Female 7,902 49.1% 1.3%
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 Ashland County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 16% are children under 15, then 13.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.4% of the population, while another 26.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
16%
15 to 24
13.9%
25 to 44
22.4%
45 to 64
26.3%
Over 65
21.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,571 16% -3.5%
15 to 24 2,228 13.9% 1.6%
25 to 44 3,598 22.4% 2.4%
45 to 64 4,231 26.3% -1.6%
Over 65 3,452 21.5% 2.1%
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 Ashland County, 97.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82.9% of locals are Caucasian, 0.5% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,642 97.3% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 269 1.7% 17.0%
Non-citizens 169 1% 34.1%
Racial breakdown
White
82.9%
Black or African American
0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
9.5%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.1%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 13,326 82.9%
Black or African American 83 0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,532 9.5%
Asian 119 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 974 6.1%
Other 45 0.3%

Households in Ashland County

A peek inside Ashland County households

Ashland County has 6,832 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57% are families, while the remaining 43% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,832
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,941
Family households
3,891
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,941 43% -4.1%
Family households 3,891 57% 2.9%
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 Ashland County

The housing landscape of Ashland County

Ashland County's housing consists of 9,445 units, with 77% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.5% 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 6.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,445
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,275 77%
1 unit, attached 138 1.5%
2 units 419 4.4%
3 or 4 units 240 2.5%
5 to 9 units 335 3.6%
10 to 19 units 247 2.6%
20 to 49 units 138 1.5%
50 or more units 45 0.5%
Mobile home 605 6.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 3 0%
Homes built since 2020
42
13.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ashland County

In Ashland County, the median construction year is 1972. About 25.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,401 25.4% -0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 551 5.8% 0.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 771 8.2% 3.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 689 7.3% 8.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,423 15.1% -1.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,054 11.2% 7.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,039 11% -6.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,128 11.9% -1.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 347 3.7% 6.4%
Built in 2020 or later 42 0.4% 13.5%
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.

Ashland County occupancy rates

Out of the 6,832 occupied housing units in Ashland County, 73.4% are owner-occupied, while 26.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 27.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,832
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,815
Owner occupied
5,017
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,815 26.6% -4.0%
Owner occupied 5,017 73.4% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
27.7%
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.

Ashland County housing costs

Housing costs in Ashland County come to a median of $825 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $721.

Median housing costs per month
$825/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 Ashland County
$721/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 Ashland County

Ashland County education at a glance

About 39.7% of the population in Ashland County went to high school, while 24.5% pursued college studies. Another 12.6% earned an associate degree and 14.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 147 1.2% 0.7%
High school diploma 5,065 39.7% 0.1%
College diploma 3,129 24.5% -7.0%
Associate degree 1,601 12.6% 0.4%
Bachelor's degree 1,877 14.7% 12.2%
Graduate degree 930 7.3% 11.1%
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 Ashland County

How much people earn in Ashland County

The average annual household income in Ashland County was $76,270 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,462, reflecting a +8.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ashland County
$76,270/year
5.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ashland County
$62,462/year
8.4% year-over-year change

Ashland County income by age

In Ashland County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,406. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,422 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $56,667, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,602 in earnings. Overall, 86.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $56,667 0.0%
25 - 44 $70,406 2.5%
45 - 64 $75,422 7.4%
Over 65 $44,602 10.7%
Above poverty level
13,229
Below poverty level
2,055
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,229 86.6% 3.9%
Below poverty level 2,055 13.4% -16.5%

Employment in Ashland County

Workforce and job types in Ashland County

The job market in Ashland County is powered by 7,584 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 55.9% are employed by private companies, and 22% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,584
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
5,446
Blue collar
2,138
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,446 71.8% 2.1%
Blue collar 2,138 28.2% -3.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
55.9%
Governmental workers
22%
Not for profit companies
13.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 672 8.9% -6.8%
Private companies 4,242 55.9% -4.8%
Governmental workers 1,670 22% 9.9%
Not for profit companies 1,000 13.2% 17.0%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-20.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ashland County stands at 3.8%, 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 Ashland County

How people get around in Ashland County

In Ashland County, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 81.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
2.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,059 81.1% 0.2%
Bus or trolleybus 80 1.1% -36.5%
Motorcycle 2 0% 0.0%
Bicycle 75 1% 2.7%
Walk 475 6.4% 1.9%
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 Ashland County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54846 650 260 $74,000 $98,307
54850 321 178 $71,250 $99,554
54855 924 302 $56,875 $77,021
54861 122 47 $0 $49,179
54514 1,827 820 $70,769 $86,040
54517 167 86 $73,571 $83,322
54527 932 468 $55,476 $61,106
54806 11,704 4,852 $64,864 $79,775
54546 1,332 535 $70,104 $83,610
54559 837 411 $69,696 $78,584

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FAQs about Ashland County demographics 

What is the total population of Ashland County?

Ashland County has a total population of 16,080 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 Ashland County?

The gender ratio in Ashland County is as follows:
  • 50.9% males (8,178 residents)
  • 49.1% females (7,902 residents)

What is the median age in Ashland County?

The median age in Ashland County is 43.1.

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

The age distribution in Ashland County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16% (2,571 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.9% (2,228 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.4% (3,598 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.3% (4,231 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.5% (3,452 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ashland County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ashland County is as follows:
  • White: 82.9% (13,326 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.5% (83 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 9.5% (1,532 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (119 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.1% (974 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (45 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.3% of the population in Ashland County.

How many housing units are there in Ashland County?

There are 9,445 housing units in Ashland 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 Ashland County and what is the average household size?

Ashland County has a total of 6,832 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ashland County?

Ashland County has a median household income of $62,462, representing a +8.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Ashland County, with a workforce of 7,584 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.8% (5,446 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.2% (2,138 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (672 residents)
  • Private companies: 55.9% (4,242 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22% (1,670 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.2% (1,000 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