Howard, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
21,087
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$85,477/yr
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,139
4.3% year-over-year change

Howard population

How many people live in Howard

Howard is home to 21,087 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Howard locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
21,087
4.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
10,330
Female
51%
10,757
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,330 49% 4.3%
Female 10,757 51% 3.9%
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 Howard is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 17% are children under 15, then 14.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.6% of the population, while another 27.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
17%
15 to 24
14.4%
25 to 44
23.6%
45 to 64
27.6%
Over 65
17.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,586 17% 6.2%
15 to 24 3,040 14.4% 9.9%
25 to 44 4,967 23.6% 3.2%
45 to 64 5,819 27.6% 1.0%
Over 65 3,675 17.4% 3.8%
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 Howard, 97% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.2% of locals are Caucasian, 3.2% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 20,460 97% 4.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 510 2.4% -4.5%
Non-citizens 117 0.6% 37.6%
Racial breakdown
White
91.2%
Black or African American
3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.8%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 19,236 91.2%
Black or African American 674 3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 55 0.3%
Asian 220 1%
Two or more races 794 3.8%
Other 108 0.5%

Households in Howard

A peek inside Howard households

Howard has 8,839 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.4% are families, while the remaining 38.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,839
3.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,416
Family households
5,423
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,416 38.6% 4.3%
Family households 5,423 61.4% 3.6%
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 Howard

The housing landscape of Howard

Howard's housing consists of 9,139 units, with 60.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,139
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,544 60.7%
1 unit, attached 548 6%
2 units 253 2.8%
3 or 4 units 232 2.5%
5 to 9 units 1,295 14.2%
10 to 19 units 468 5.1%
20 to 49 units 501 5.5%
50 or more units 279 3%
Mobile home 19 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
384
94.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Howard

In Howard, the median construction year is 1995. About 2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 18.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 185 2% 12.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 102 1.1% -2.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 237 2.6% -26.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 869 9.5% -8.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,388 15.2% 2.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 861 9.4% 28.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,832 20% -4.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,680 18.4% 6.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,601 17.5% 6.8%
Built in 2020 or later 384 4.2% 94.9%
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.

Howard occupancy rates

Out of the 8,839 occupied housing units in Howard, 63.9% are owner-occupied, while 36.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,839
3.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,187
Owner occupied
5,652
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,187 36.1% 4.6%
Owner occupied 5,652 63.9% 3.5%
Unoccupied housing units
3.3%
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.

Howard housing costs

Housing costs in Howard come to a median of $1,212 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,102.

Median housing costs per month
$1,212/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 Howard
$1,102/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 Howard

Howard education at a glance

About 31.6% of the population in Howard went to high school, while 20.7% pursued college studies. Another 11.1% earned an associate degree and 27.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 152 0.9% 3.4%
High school diploma 5,204 31.6% 4.3%
College diploma 3,415 20.7% -1.7%
Associate degree 1,830 11.1% -1.7%
Bachelor's degree 4,456 27.1% 8.4%
Graduate degree 1,411 8.6% 3.4%
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 Howard

How much people earn in Howard

The average annual household income in Howard was $112,461 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $85,477, reflecting a +0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Howard
$112,461/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Howard
$85,477/year
0.7% year-over-year change

Howard income by age

In Howard, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $110,000. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $105,884 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,370, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $58,622 in earnings. Overall, 94.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,370 1.1%
25 - 44 $110,000 14.4%
45 - 64 $105,884 -3.4%
Over 65 $58,622 3.3%
Above poverty level
19,830
Below poverty level
1,082
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 19,830 94.8% 4.3%
Below poverty level 1,082 5.2% 3.3%

Average renter income in Howard

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Howard, their median household income was $46,541 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 28.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$46,541
Rent-to-income ratio
28.4%
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 Howard

Workforce and job types in Howard

The job market in Howard is powered by 11,601 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.6% run their own businesses, 73.3% are employed by private companies, and 12.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,601
2.5% year-over-year change
White collar
8,847
Blue collar
2,754
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,847 76.3% 4.3%
Blue collar 2,754 23.7% -2.7%
Employer type
Self employees
6.6%
Private companies
73.3%
Governmental workers
12.3%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 769 6.6% 13.2%
Private companies 8,505 73.3% 2.5%
Governmental workers 1,427 12.3% 7.5%
Not for profit companies 900 7.8% -11.1%
Unemployment rate
2.5%
38.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Howard stands at 2.5%, 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 Howard

How people get around in Howard

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,725 85% -1.2%
Taxicab 21 0.2% N/A
Bicycle 24 0.2% N/A
Walk 6 0% 200.0%
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 Howard by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54155 7,418 2,826 $99,597 $131,387
54303 28,153 12,626 $60,781 $77,859
54313 41,422 16,039 $107,599 $133,123

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FAQs about Howard demographics 

What is the total population of Howard?

Howard has a total population of 21,087 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 +4.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Howard?

The gender ratio in Howard is as follows:
  • 49% males (10,330 residents)
  • 51% females (10,757 residents)

What is the median age in Howard?

The median age in Howard is 41.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Howard?

The age distribution in Howard is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17% (3,586 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.4% (3,040 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.6% (4,967 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.6% (5,819 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.4% (3,675 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Howard?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Howard is as follows:
  • White: 91.2% (19,236 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.2% (674 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (55 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (220 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.8% (794 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (108 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97% of the population in Howard.

How many housing units are there in Howard?

There are 9,139 housing units in Howard, reflecting a +4.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Howard has a total of 8,839 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Howard?

Howard has a median household income of $85,477, representing a +0.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Howard?

The employment rate is 97.5% in Howard, with a workforce of 11,601 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.3% (8,847 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.7% (2,754 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.6% (769 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.3% (8,505 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.3% (1,427 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (900 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