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

Total population
44,229
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$75,099/yr
3.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
23,154
0.7% year-over-year change

Douglas County population

How many people live in Douglas County

Douglas County is home to 44,229 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Douglas County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
44,229
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
22,322
Female
49.5%
21,907
Value Percent YoY change
Male 22,322 50.5% 0.0%
Female 21,907 49.5% 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 Douglas County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.6% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.1% of the population, while another 26.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.6%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
25.1%
45 to 64
26.8%
Over 65
20.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,876 15.6% 0.4%
15 to 24 5,258 11.9% -2.2%
25 to 44 11,114 25.1% 0.4%
45 to 64 11,836 26.8% -1.7%
Over 65 9,145 20.7% 3.2%
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 Douglas County, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.3% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 43,175 97.6% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 688 1.6% -13.1%
Non-citizens 366 0.8% 2.2%
Racial breakdown
White
90.3%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.3%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 39,928 90.3%
Black or African American 375 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 621 1.4%
Asian 331 0.8%
Two or more races 2,771 6.3%
Other 203 0.5%

Households in Douglas County

A peek inside Douglas County households

Douglas County has 19,160 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.5% are families, while the remaining 43.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,160
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
8,337
Family households
10,823
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,337 43.5% 4.5%
Family households 10,823 56.5% -1.4%
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 Douglas County

The housing landscape of Douglas County

Douglas County's housing consists of 23,154 units, with 74.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.1% 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 4.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
23,154
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,258 74.5%
1 unit, attached 489 2.1%
2 units 870 3.8%
3 or 4 units 787 3.4%
5 to 9 units 651 2.8%
10 to 19 units 648 2.8%
20 to 49 units 293 1.3%
50 or more units 1,086 4.7%
Mobile home 1,067 4.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 5 0%
Homes built since 2020
243
54.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Douglas County

In Douglas County, the median construction year is 1969. About 25.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,851 25.3% 2.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,576 6.8% -7.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,879 8.1% 6.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,397 10.4% 8.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,565 15.4% -6.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,889 8.2% -2.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,987 8.6% -2.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,428 10.5% -1.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,339 5.8% 14.0%
Built in 2020 or later 243 1% 54.8%
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.

Douglas County occupancy rates

Out of the 19,160 occupied housing units in Douglas County, 71.9% are owner-occupied, while 28.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,160
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,386
Owner occupied
13,774
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,386 28.1% 2.0%
Owner occupied 13,774 71.9% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
17.2%
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.

Douglas County housing costs

Housing costs in Douglas County come to a median of $1,002 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $909.

Median housing costs per month
$1,002/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 Douglas County
$909/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 Douglas County

Douglas County education at a glance

About 35.8% of the population in Douglas County went to high school, while 23.1% pursued college studies. Another 13.6% earned an associate degree and 19.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 331 0.9% -2.9%
High school diploma 12,820 35.8% 2.7%
College diploma 8,252 23.1% -5.7%
Associate degree 4,855 13.6% -1.1%
Bachelor's degree 6,816 19.1% 1.9%
Graduate degree 2,684 7.5% 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 Douglas County

How much people earn in Douglas County

The average annual household income in Douglas County was $88,663 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $75,099, reflecting a +3.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Douglas County
$88,663/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Douglas County
$75,099/year
3.5% year-over-year change

Douglas County income by age

In Douglas County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $93,731. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $83,088 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,676, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,771 in earnings. Overall, 89.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,676 3.6%
25 - 44 $93,731 7.9%
45 - 64 $83,088 3.2%
Over 65 $51,771 1.1%
Above poverty level
38,024
Below poverty level
4,581
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 38,024 89.2% -0.5%
Below poverty level 4,581 10.8% 2.9%

Employment in Douglas County

Workforce and job types in Douglas County

The job market in Douglas County is powered by 22,063 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, 6.7% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 16.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
22,063
-0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
15,844
Blue collar
6,219
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 15,844 71.8% -0.5%
Blue collar 6,219 28.2% 0.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.7%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
16.3%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,486 6.7% 5.5%
Private companies 14,824 67.2% -1.0%
Governmental workers 3,587 16.3% 0.0%
Not for profit companies 2,166 9.8% 0.7%
Unemployment rate
3.1%
-11.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Douglas 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 Douglas County

How people get around in Douglas County

In Douglas County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
-0.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 18,572 85.5% -2.0%
Taxicab 22 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 215 1% 13.2%
Motorcycle 23 0.1% -4.2%
Bicycle 50 0.2% N/A
Walk 738 3.4% -13.4%
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 Douglas County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54830 3,526 1,733 $66,941 $92,605
54836 931 375 $77,031 $91,805
54838 1,404 568 $74,318 $89,308
54842 267 78 $88,750 $81,683
54849 1,857 830 $80,714 $95,622
54854 960 347 $88,125 $102,127
54859 2,242 1,092 $55,882 $81,825
54864 1,590 561 $91,250 $105,184
54873 3,056 1,371 $88,359 $98,323
54820 707 339 $85,179 $97,578

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FAQs about Douglas County demographics 

What is the total population of Douglas County?

Douglas County has a total population of 44,229 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 Douglas County?

The gender ratio in Douglas County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (22,322 residents)
  • 49.5% females (21,907 residents)

What is the median age in Douglas County?

The median age in Douglas County is 42.7.

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

The age distribution in Douglas County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.6% (6,876 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (5,258 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.1% (11,114 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.8% (11,836 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.7% (9,145 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Douglas County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Douglas County is as follows:
  • White: 90.3% (39,928 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (375 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (621 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (331 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.3% (2,771 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (203 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in Douglas County.

How many housing units are there in Douglas County?

There are 23,154 housing units in Douglas County, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Douglas County and what is the average household size?

Douglas County has a total of 19,160 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Douglas County?

Douglas County has a median household income of $75,099, representing a +3.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.9% in Douglas County, with a workforce of 22,063 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.8% (15,844 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.2% (6,219 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.7% (1,486 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (14,824 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.3% (3,587 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (2,166 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