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

Total population
58,272
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$85,351/yr
3.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
26,880
0.2% year-over-year change

Columbia County population

How many people live in Columbia County

Columbia County is home to 58,272 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.2% of Columbia County locals are male, and 48.8% are female.

Total population
58,272
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.2%
29,818
Female
48.8%
28,454
Value Percent YoY change
Male 29,818 51.2% -0.7%
Female 28,454 48.8% 0.5%
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 Columbia County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.5% are children under 15, then 11.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 28.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.5%
15 to 24
11.1%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
28.1%
Over 65
19.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,617 16.5% -1.8%
15 to 24 6,468 11.1% -0.8%
25 to 44 14,371 24.7% 0.1%
45 to 64 16,394 28.1% -0.7%
Over 65 11,422 19.6% 2.5%
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 Columbia County, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91% of locals are Caucasian, 1.8% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
1.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 56,479 96.9% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,163 2% -3.1%
Non-citizens 630 1.1% -7.9%
Racial breakdown
White
91%
Black or African American
1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.3%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 53,053 91%
Black or African American 1,062 1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 313 0.5%
Asian 466 0.8%
Two or more races 2,525 4.3%
Other 853 1.5%

Households in Columbia County

A peek inside Columbia County households

Columbia County has 24,158 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.5% are families, while the remaining 34.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
24,158
-0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
8,339
Family households
15,819
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,339 34.5% 0.1%
Family households 15,819 65.5% -0.5%
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 Columbia County

The housing landscape of Columbia County

Columbia County's housing consists of 26,880 units, with 76.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.6% 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 2.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
26,880
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 20,598 76.6%
1 unit, attached 968 3.6%
2 units 946 3.5%
3 or 4 units 978 3.6%
5 to 9 units 773 2.9%
10 to 19 units 995 3.7%
20 to 49 units 452 1.7%
50 or more units 419 1.6%
Mobile home 715 2.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 36 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
420
54.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Columbia County

In Columbia County, the median construction year is 1976. About 21.6% 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, 15.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,820 21.6% 1.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,109 4.1% 6.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,360 8.8% -7.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,909 7.1% -0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,626 13.5% -6.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,197 8.2% -3.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,961 14.7% 5.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,135 15.4% 1.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,343 5% 3.4%
Built in 2020 or later 420 1.6% 54.4%
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.

Columbia County occupancy rates

Out of the 24,158 occupied housing units in Columbia County, 76.7% are owner-occupied, while 23.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
24,158
-0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,638
Owner occupied
18,520
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,638 23.3% 0.7%
Owner occupied 18,520 76.7% -0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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.

Columbia County housing costs

Housing costs in Columbia County come to a median of $1,173 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $978.

Median housing costs per month
$1,173/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 Columbia County
$978/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 Columbia County

Columbia County education at a glance

About 36.4% of the population in Columbia County went to high school, while 25% pursued college studies. Another 11.9% earned an associate degree and 17.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 944 2% 0.5%
High school diploma 16,877 36.4% -1.6%
College diploma 11,599 25% 1.8%
Associate degree 5,520 11.9% 0.3%
Bachelor's degree 7,950 17.2% 2.5%
Graduate degree 3,410 7.4% -1.0%
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 Columbia County

How much people earn in Columbia County

The average annual household income in Columbia County was $102,726 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $85,351, reflecting a +3.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Columbia County
$102,726/year
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Columbia County
$85,351/year
3.1% year-over-year change

Columbia County income by age

In Columbia County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $95,611. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $103,373 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,528, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $57,885 in earnings. Overall, 92.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,528 -1.2%
25 - 44 $95,611 3.9%
45 - 64 $103,373 3.6%
Over 65 $57,885 3.1%
Above poverty level
51,877
Below poverty level
4,324
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 51,877 92.3% -0.1%
Below poverty level 4,324 7.7% -1.3%

Employment in Columbia County

Workforce and job types in Columbia County

The job market in Columbia County is powered by 30,439 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.9% run their own businesses, 67.6% are employed by private companies, and 14.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
30,439
0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
21,683
Blue collar
8,756
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,683 71.2% -0.1%
Blue collar 8,756 28.8% 1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
10.9%
Private companies
67.6%
Governmental workers
14.7%
Not for profit companies
6.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,311 10.9% -2.2%
Private companies 20,577 67.6% 2.2%
Governmental workers 4,482 14.7% -3.4%
Not for profit companies 2,069 6.8% -5.0%
Unemployment rate
3.1%
1.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Columbia County stands at 3.1%, 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 Columbia County

How people get around in Columbia County

In Columbia County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% 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
-2.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 25,120 83.9% -1.3%
Taxicab 100 0.3% 7.5%
Bus or trolleybus 93 0.3% 132.5%
Motorcycle 31 0.1% 63.2%
Bicycle 70 0.2% -14.6%
Walk 664 2.2% -2.5%
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 Columbia County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53532 16,514 6,387 $110,022 $135,430
53555 8,933 3,890 $119,305 $134,393
53561 1,872 815 $91,103 $121,291
53578 6,503 2,669 $105,610 $121,608
53901 14,291 5,799 $74,092 $88,301
53911 1,450 546 $100,625 $110,470
53923 2,295 842 $72,500 $88,357
53925 8,754 3,609 $84,044 $102,817
53926 1,951 595 $62,917 $86,862
53928 63 34 $85,625 $82,532

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FAQs about Columbia County demographics 

What is the total population of Columbia County?

Columbia County has a total population of 58,272 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Columbia County?

The gender ratio in Columbia County is as follows:
  • 51.2% males (29,818 residents)
  • 48.8% females (28,454 residents)

What is the median age in Columbia County?

The median age in Columbia County is 43.7.

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

The age distribution in Columbia County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.5% (9,617 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.1% (6,468 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (14,371 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.1% (16,394 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.6% (11,422 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia County is as follows:
  • White: 91% (53,053 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.8% (1,062 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (313 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (466 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.3% (2,525 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (853 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Columbia County.

How many housing units are there in Columbia County?

There are 26,880 housing units in Columbia County, 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 Columbia County and what is the average household size?

Columbia County has a total of 24,158 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Columbia County?

Columbia County has a median household income of $85,351, representing a +3.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.9% in Columbia County, with a workforce of 30,439 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.2% (21,683 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.8% (8,756 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.9% (3,311 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.6% (20,577 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.7% (4,482 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.8% (2,069 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