Brown Deer, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
12,564
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$93,974/yr
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,213
0.4% year-over-year change

Brown Deer population

How many people live in Brown Deer

Brown Deer is home to 12,564 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53.2% of Brown Deer locals are male, and 46.8% are female.

Total population
12,564
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53.2%
6,689
Female
46.8%
5,875
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,689 53.2% 0.5%
Female 5,875 46.8% -1.4%
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 Brown Deer is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.5% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.4% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.5%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
28.4%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
19.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,826 14.5% -11.1%
15 to 24 1,423 11.3% 5.3%
25 to 44 3,567 28.4% 0.1%
45 to 64 3,343 26.6% 1.4%
Over 65 2,405 19.1% 2.3%
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 Brown Deer, 92.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 50.1% of locals are Caucasian, 30.1% are African American and 7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.5%
Non-citizens
2.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,576 92.1% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 695 5.5% -8.7%
Non-citizens 293 2.3% 11.4%
Racial breakdown
White
50.1%
Black or African American
30.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9%
Other
3.6%
Value Percent
White 6,297 50.1%
Black or African American 3,781 30.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 25 0.2%
Asian 873 7%
Two or more races 1,129 9%
Other 459 3.6%

Households in Brown Deer

A peek inside Brown Deer households

Brown Deer has 5,818 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
5,818
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,480
Family households
3,338
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,480 42.6% 10.0%
Family households 3,338 57.4% -3.4%
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 Brown Deer

The housing landscape of Brown Deer

Brown Deer's housing consists of 6,213 units, with 57.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,213
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,578 57.6%
1 unit, attached 308 5%
2 units 303 4.9%
3 or 4 units 139 2.2%
5 to 9 units 112 1.8%
10 to 19 units 338 5.4%
20 to 49 units 760 12.2%
50 or more units 647 10.4%
Mobile home 28 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
128
178.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Brown Deer

In Brown Deer, the median construction year is 1969. About 4.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 302 4.9% -11.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 255 4.1% -11.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,603 25.8% 14.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,083 17.4% -1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,006 16.2% -0.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 720 11.6% -7.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 306 4.9% -10.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 359 5.8% -5.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 451 7.3% -10.9%
Built in 2020 or later 128 2.1% 178.3%
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.

Brown Deer occupancy rates

Out of the 5,818 occupied housing units in Brown Deer, 65.2% are owner-occupied, while 34.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,818
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,027
Owner occupied
3,791
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,027 34.8% 0.8%
Owner occupied 3,791 65.2% 2.4%
Unoccupied housing units
6.4%
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.

Brown Deer housing costs

Housing costs in Brown Deer come to a median of $1,373 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,183.

Median housing costs per month
$1,373/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 Brown Deer
$1,183/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 Brown Deer

Brown Deer education at a glance

About 29.7% of the population in Brown Deer went to high school, while 20% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 29.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 201 2% 44.6%
High school diploma 3,034 29.7% -0.4%
College diploma 2,050 20% 3.8%
Associate degree 945 9.2% -6.3%
Bachelor's degree 3,052 29.8% 4.9%
Graduate degree 944 9.2% -5.8%
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 Brown Deer

How much people earn in Brown Deer

The average annual household income in Brown Deer was $102,540 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $93,974, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Brown Deer
$102,540/year
7.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Brown Deer
$93,974/year
2.6% year-over-year change

Brown Deer income by age

In Brown Deer, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $105,994. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $100,250 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $67,964, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,776 in earnings. Overall, 93% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $67,964 N/A
25 - 44 $105,994 6.9%
45 - 64 $100,250 4.0%
Over 65 $66,776 -4.8%
Above poverty level
11,516
Below poverty level
872
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,516 93% 1.6%
Below poverty level 872 7% -17.2%

Average renter income in Brown Deer

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Brown Deer, their median household income was $31,959 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 44.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$31,959
Rent-to-income ratio
44.4%
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 Brown Deer

Workforce and job types in Brown Deer

The job market in Brown Deer is powered by 6,903 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.7% run their own businesses, 69.3% are employed by private companies, and 13% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,903
1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
5,734
Blue collar
1,169
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,734 83.1% 1.9%
Blue collar 1,169 16.9% -0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.7%
Private companies
69.3%
Governmental workers
13%
Not for profit companies
8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 667 9.7% 31.6%
Private companies 4,786 69.3% 2.0%
Governmental workers 895 13% -17.2%
Not for profit companies 555 8% 6.5%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
14.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Brown Deer stands at 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 Brown Deer

How people get around in Brown Deer

Commuting methods vary: 74.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.1% 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 5,144 74.8% -4.0%
Bus or trolleybus 86 1.2% 104.8%
Bicycle 34 0.5% 61.9%
Walk 8 0.1% -38.5%
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 Brown Deer by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53209 45,170 19,518 $48,486 $66,023
53223 28,793 12,006 $60,839 $80,221

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FAQs about Brown Deer demographics 

What is the total population of Brown Deer?

Brown Deer has a total population of 12,564 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 Brown Deer?

The gender ratio in Brown Deer is as follows:
  • 53.2% males (6,689 residents)
  • 46.8% females (5,875 residents)

What is the median age in Brown Deer?

The median age in Brown Deer is 40.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Brown Deer?

The age distribution in Brown Deer is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.5% (1,826 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (1,423 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.4% (3,567 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (3,343 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.1% (2,405 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Brown Deer?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Brown Deer is as follows:
  • White: 50.1% (6,297 residents)
  • Black or African American: 30.1% (3,781 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (25 residents)
  • Asian: 7% (873 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9% (1,129 residents)
  • Other: 3.6% (459 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.1% of the population in Brown Deer.

How many housing units are there in Brown Deer?

There are 6,213 housing units in Brown Deer, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Brown Deer has a total of 5,818 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Brown Deer?

Brown Deer has a median household income of $93,974, representing a +2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Brown Deer?

The employment rate is 95% in Brown Deer, with a workforce of 6,903 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.1% (5,734 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.9% (1,169 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.7% (667 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.3% (4,786 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13% (895 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8% (555 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