Eau Claire, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
70,322
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$67,395/yr
3.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
31,712
3.6% year-over-year change

Eau Claire population

How many people live in Eau Claire

Eau Claire is home to 70,322 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of Eau Claire locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
70,322
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
33,870
Female
51.8%
36,452
Value Percent YoY change
Male 33,870 48.2% 1.9%
Female 36,452 51.8% 1.2%
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 Eau Claire is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.9% are children under 15, then 22.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.6% of the population, while another 19.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.9%
15 to 24
22.7%
25 to 44
26.6%
45 to 64
19.5%
Over 65
16.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 10,457 14.9% 0.8%
15 to 24 15,978 22.7% 1.0%
25 to 44 18,729 26.6% 2.4%
45 to 64 13,704 19.5% 1.1%
Over 65 11,454 16.3% 1.9%
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 Eau Claire, 95.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86% of locals are Caucasian, 1.8% are African American and 5.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
1.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 67,324 95.7% 1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,658 2.4% -11.7%
Non-citizens 1,340 1.9% 44.9%
Racial breakdown
White
86%
Black or African American
1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
5.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
5.4%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 60,505 86%
Black or African American 1,244 1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 245 0.4%
Asian 3,783 5.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 138 0.2%
Two or more races 3,780 5.4%
Other 627 0.9%

Households in Eau Claire

A peek inside Eau Claire households

Eau Claire has 30,492 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 52.5% are families, while the remaining 47.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
30,492
4.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
14,492
Family households
16,000
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 14,492 47.5% 2.6%
Family households 16,000 52.5% 6.1%
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 Eau Claire

The housing landscape of Eau Claire

Eau Claire's housing consists of 31,712 units, with 54.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.8% 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 1.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
31,712
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,369 54.8%
1 unit, attached 2,477 7.8%
2 units 2,401 7.6%
3 or 4 units 2,893 9.1%
5 to 9 units 2,353 7.4%
10 to 19 units 1,342 4.2%
20 to 49 units 1,301 4.1%
50 or more units 1,199 3.8%
Mobile home 344 1.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 33 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
477
45.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Eau Claire

In Eau Claire, the median construction year is 1975. About 17.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% 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, 7.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,543 17.5% 1.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,666 5.2% -9.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,357 10.6% -2.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,626 8.3% -3.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,051 15.9% -0.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,134 9.9% 9.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,681 11.6% -3.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,766 11.9% 15.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,411 7.6% 28.6%
Built in 2020 or later 477 1.5% 45.9%
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.

Eau Claire occupancy rates

Out of the 30,492 occupied housing units in Eau Claire, 54.4% are owner-occupied, while 45.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
30,492
4.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
13,896
Owner occupied
16,596
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 13,896 45.6% 6.8%
Owner occupied 16,596 54.4% 2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
3.8%
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.

Eau Claire housing costs

Housing costs in Eau Claire come to a median of $1,087 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,045.

Median housing costs per month
$1,087/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 Eau Claire
$1,045/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 Eau Claire

Eau Claire education at a glance

About 27.8% of the population in Eau Claire went to high school, while 27.2% pursued college studies. Another 12.6% earned an associate degree and 21.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 950 1.6% 14.7%
High school diploma 16,117 27.8% -2.3%
College diploma 15,777 27.2% -1.1%
Associate degree 7,305 12.6% 1.0%
Bachelor's degree 12,377 21.4% 7.4%
Graduate degree 5,365 9.3% 8.2%
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 Eau Claire

How much people earn in Eau Claire

The average annual household income in Eau Claire was $89,410 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $67,395, reflecting a +3.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Eau Claire
$89,410/year
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Eau Claire
$67,395/year
3.1% year-over-year change

Eau Claire income by age

In Eau Claire, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,066. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,255 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,150, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,672 in earnings. Overall, 85.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,150 10.2%
25 - 44 $80,066 4.1%
45 - 64 $87,255 2.7%
Over 65 $55,672 0.6%
Above poverty level
56,678
Below poverty level
9,440
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 56,678 85.7% 1.8%
Below poverty level 9,440 14.3% 1.9%

Average renter income in Eau Claire

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Eau Claire, their median household income was $46,280 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$46,280
Rent-to-income ratio
27.1%
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 Eau Claire

Workforce and job types in Eau Claire

The job market in Eau Claire is powered by 39,973 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.1% run their own businesses, 67.9% are employed by private companies, and 14.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
39,973
2.7% year-over-year change
White collar
31,498
Blue collar
8,475
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 31,498 78.8% 4.3%
Blue collar 8,475 21.2% -3.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7.1%
Private companies
67.9%
Governmental workers
14.1%
Not for profit companies
10.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,835 7.1% 0.5%
Private companies 27,154 67.9% 1.2%
Governmental workers 5,636 14.1% 9.8%
Not for profit companies 4,348 10.9% 4.8%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
-7.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Eau Claire stands at 3.4%, 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 Eau Claire

How people get around in Eau Claire

Commuting methods vary: 82% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.1% 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 32,191 82% 1.5%
Taxicab 33 0.1% 6.5%
Bus or trolleybus 528 1.4% 49.1%
Ferryboat 14 0% -36.4%
Motorcycle 91 0.2% 82.0%
Bicycle 236 0.6% -41.6%
Walk 1,207 3.1% -4.4%
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 Eau Claire by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54701 43,014 18,239 $74,361 $107,012
54703 44,153 18,873 $71,518 $90,919

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FAQs about Eau Claire demographics 

What is the total population of Eau Claire?

Eau Claire has a total population of 70,322 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Eau Claire?

The gender ratio in Eau Claire is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (33,870 residents)
  • 51.8% females (36,452 residents)

What is the median age in Eau Claire?

The median age in Eau Claire is 32.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Eau Claire?

The age distribution in Eau Claire is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.9% (10,457 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 22.7% (15,978 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.6% (18,729 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.5% (13,704 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.3% (11,454 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Eau Claire?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Eau Claire is as follows:
  • White: 86% (60,505 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.8% (1,244 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (245 residents)
  • Asian: 5.4% (3,783 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (138 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.4% (3,780 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (627 residents)

What percentage of the population in Eau Claire are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.7% of the population in Eau Claire.

How many housing units are there in Eau Claire?

There are 31,712 housing units in Eau Claire, reflecting a +3.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Eau Claire and what is the average household size?

Eau Claire has a total of 30,492 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Eau Claire?

Eau Claire has a median household income of $67,395, 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 Eau Claire?

The employment rate is 96.6% in Eau Claire, with a workforce of 39,973 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.8% (31,498 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.2% (8,475 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.1% (2,835 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.9% (27,154 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.1% (5,636 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.9% (4,348 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