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

Total population
13,393
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,479/yr
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,522
-0.4% year-over-year change

Buffalo County population

How many people live in Buffalo County

Buffalo County is home to 13,393 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Buffalo County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
13,393
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
6,759
Female
49.5%
6,634
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,759 50.5% 0.0%
Female 6,634 49.5% 0.8%
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 Buffalo County is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 10.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.6% of the population, while another 28% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
10.2%
25 to 44
21.6%
45 to 64
28%
Over 65
24%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,174 16.2% -0.6%
15 to 24 1,370 10.2% -1.9%
25 to 44 2,887 21.6% 0.2%
45 to 64 3,744 28% -0.7%
Over 65 3,218 24% 3.6%
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 Buffalo County, 98% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 94.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 13,127 98% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 126 0.9% 0.8%
Non-citizens 140 1% 22.8%
Racial breakdown
White
94.1%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.7%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 12,599 94.1%
Black or African American 57 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 29 0.2%
Asian 33 0.2%
Two or more races 492 3.7%
Other 183 1.4%

Households in Buffalo County

A peek inside Buffalo County households

Buffalo County has 5,720 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.2% are families, while the remaining 37.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,720
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,160
Family households
3,560
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,160 37.8% 7.2%
Family households 3,560 62.2% -3.2%
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 Buffalo County

The housing landscape of Buffalo County

Buffalo County's housing consists of 6,522 units, with 80.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% 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 5.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,522
-0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,261 80.7%
1 unit, attached 119 1.8%
2 units 286 4.4%
3 or 4 units 153 2.4%
5 to 9 units 86 1.3%
10 to 19 units 153 2.4%
20 to 49 units 100 1.5%
50 or more units 2 0%
Mobile home 360 5.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2 0%
Homes built since 2020
36
80.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Buffalo County

In Buffalo County, the median construction year is 1969. About 26.8% 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, 11.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,750 26.8% 2.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 429 6.6% -8.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 606 9.3% 11.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 531 8.1% -3.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 891 13.7% -9.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 559 8.6% 13.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 638 9.8% -8.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 732 11.2% -7.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 350 5.4% 20.3%
Built in 2020 or later 36 0.6% 80.0%
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.

Buffalo County occupancy rates

Out of the 5,720 occupied housing units in Buffalo County, 77.5% are owner-occupied, while 22.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,720
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,287
Owner occupied
4,433
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,287 22.5% 4.3%
Owner occupied 4,433 77.5% -0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
12.3%
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.

Buffalo County housing costs

Housing costs in Buffalo County come to a median of $976 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $876.

Median housing costs per month
$976/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 Buffalo County
$876/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 Buffalo County

Buffalo County education at a glance

About 44% of the population in Buffalo County went to high school, while 18.6% pursued college studies. Another 14.3% earned an associate degree and 15.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 221 2.1% -6.4%
High school diploma 4,721 44% -1.4%
College diploma 1,995 18.6% 1.9%
Associate degree 1,533 14.3% 6.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,618 15.1% -1.2%
Graduate degree 637 5.9% 7.4%
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 Buffalo County

How much people earn in Buffalo County

The average annual household income in Buffalo County was $85,332 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 $70,479, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Buffalo County
$85,332/year
5.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Buffalo County
$70,479/year
2.6% year-over-year change

Buffalo County income by age

In Buffalo County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,216. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $96,181 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,821, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,625 in earnings. Overall, 91.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,821 -20.3%
25 - 44 $86,216 3.6%
45 - 64 $96,181 13.7%
Over 65 $46,625 3.5%
Above poverty level
12,087
Below poverty level
1,115
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,087 91.6% 0.9%
Below poverty level 1,115 8.4% -2.6%

Employment in Buffalo County

Workforce and job types in Buffalo County

The job market in Buffalo County is powered by 6,781 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.2% run their own businesses, 68.2% are employed by private companies, and 12.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,781
0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
4,417
Blue collar
2,364
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,417 65.1% 0.3%
Blue collar 2,364 34.9% -0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
12.2%
Private companies
68.2%
Governmental workers
12.2%
Not for profit companies
7.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 829 12.2% -7.4%
Private companies 4,626 68.2% 1.7%
Governmental workers 824 12.2% 1.5%
Not for profit companies 502 7.4% -4.6%
Unemployment rate
2.8%
10.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Buffalo County stands at 2.8%, 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 Buffalo County

How people get around in Buffalo County

In Buffalo County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
4.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,687 85.1% 0.3%
Bus or trolleybus 7 0.1% 16.7%
Bicycle 33 0.5% 0.0%
Walk 212 3.2% -19.7%
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 Buffalo County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54610 1,564 736 $61,563 $83,898
54612 5,915 2,076 $77,647 $95,211
54622 2,147 955 $78,194 $81,678
54736 4,169 1,736 $74,083 $91,231
54629 2,595 1,127 $74,432 $89,334
54747 2,690 1,115 $70,820 $83,465
54755 7,389 2,924 $72,564 $89,522
54756 946 409 $75,625 $81,283

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FAQs about Buffalo County demographics 

What is the total population of Buffalo County?

Buffalo County has a total population of 13,393 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 Buffalo County?

The gender ratio in Buffalo County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (6,759 residents)
  • 49.5% females (6,634 residents)

What is the median age in Buffalo County?

The median age in Buffalo County is 46.5.

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

The age distribution in Buffalo County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (2,174 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.2% (1,370 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.6% (2,887 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28% (3,744 residents)
  • Over 65: 24% (3,218 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Buffalo County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Buffalo County is as follows:
  • White: 94.1% (12,599 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (57 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (29 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (33 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.7% (492 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (183 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98% of the population in Buffalo County.

How many housing units are there in Buffalo County?

There are 6,522 housing units in Buffalo County, 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 Buffalo County and what is the average household size?

Buffalo County has a total of 5,720 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Buffalo County?

Buffalo County has a median household income of $70,479, 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 Buffalo County?

The employment rate is 97.2% in Buffalo County, with a workforce of 6,781 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.1% (4,417 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.9% (2,364 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.2% (829 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.2% (4,626 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.2% (824 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.4% (502 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