Shorewood, Milwaukee County, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
13,627
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$86,726/yr
-2.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,887
-1.2% year-over-year change

Shorewood population

How many people live in Shorewood

Shorewood is home to 13,627 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Shorewood locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
13,627
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
6,749
Female
50.5%
6,878
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,749 49.5% 2.5%
Female 6,878 50.5% -3.1%
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 Shorewood is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 12.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.4% of the population, while another 25.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
12.9%
25 to 44
28.4%
45 to 64
25.9%
Over 65
17.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,103 15.4% -4.8%
15 to 24 1,756 12.9% 10.2%
25 to 44 3,863 28.4% -6.5%
45 to 64 3,529 25.9% 0.6%
Over 65 2,376 17.4% 6.2%
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 Shorewood, 89.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.4% of locals are Caucasian, 4% are African American and 5.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.3%
Non-citizens
3.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,157 89.2% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 997 7.3% 3.4%
Non-citizens 473 3.5% -9.4%
Racial breakdown
White
79.4%
Black or African American
4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
5.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.5%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 10,815 79.4%
Black or African American 542 4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 53 0.4%
Asian 751 5.5%
Two or more races 1,154 8.5%
Other 312 2.3%

Households in Shorewood

A peek inside Shorewood households

Shorewood has 6,619 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 49.3% are families, while the remaining 50.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,619
-1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,358
Family households
3,261
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,358 50.7% -0.3%
Family households 3,261 49.3% -2.0%
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 Shorewood

The housing landscape of Shorewood

Shorewood's housing consists of 6,887 units, with 35.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.2% 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
6,887
-1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,468 35.8%
1 unit, attached 361 5.2%
2 units 1,148 16.7%
3 or 4 units 416 6%
5 to 9 units 266 3.9%
10 to 19 units 419 6.1%
20 to 49 units 711 10.3%
50 or more units 1,087 15.8%
Mobile home 11 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
29
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Shorewood

In Shorewood, the median construction year is 1938. About 50.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 1.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,505 50.9% -7.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 718 10.4% 16.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 772 11.2% 12.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 322 4.7% 9.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 308 4.5% -31.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 447 6.5% 8.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 96 1.4% -18.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 107 1.6% 17.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 583 8.5% 10.6%
Built in 2020 or later 29 0.4% N/A
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.

Shorewood occupancy rates

Out of the 6,619 occupied housing units in Shorewood, 45.6% are owner-occupied, while 54.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,619
-1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,602
Owner occupied
3,017
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,602 54.4% 2.9%
Owner occupied 3,017 45.6% -5.5%
Unoccupied housing units
3.9%
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.

Shorewood housing costs

Housing costs in Shorewood come to a median of $1,598 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,347.

Median housing costs per month
$1,598/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 Shorewood
$1,347/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 Shorewood

Shorewood education at a glance

About 9.6% of the population in Shorewood went to high school, while 11.8% pursued college studies. Another 5.8% earned an associate degree and 35% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 37.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 60 0.5% -6.2%
High school diploma 1,053 9.6% -1.5%
College diploma 1,299 11.8% 13.3%
Associate degree 638 5.8% 25.6%
Bachelor's degree 3,863 35% -4.8%
Graduate degree 4,114 37.3% -2.8%
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 Shorewood

How much people earn in Shorewood

The average annual household income in Shorewood was $134,373 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $86,726, reflecting a -2.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Shorewood
$134,373/year
3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Shorewood
$86,726/year
-2.7% year-over-year change

Shorewood income by age

In Shorewood, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $91,667. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $132,418 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $31,250, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,089 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 $31,250 3.3%
25 - 44 $91,667 -11.4%
45 - 64 $132,418 10.8%
Over 65 $55,089 -1.5%
Above poverty level
11,569
Below poverty level
1,927
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,569 85.7% -1.2%
Below poverty level 1,927 14.3% 5.8%

Average renter income in Shorewood

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Shorewood, their median household income was $54,940 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$54,940
Rent-to-income ratio
29.4%
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 Shorewood

Workforce and job types in Shorewood

The job market in Shorewood is powered by 7,866 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 90.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 9.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.4% run their own businesses, 56.2% are employed by private companies, and 20.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,866
-1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
7,151
Blue collar
715
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,151 90.9% -1.2%
Blue collar 715 9.1% -1.4%
Employer type
Self employees
9.4%
Private companies
56.2%
Governmental workers
20.6%
Not for profit companies
13.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 739 9.4% -9.0%
Private companies 4,423 56.2% 1.4%
Governmental workers 1,618 20.6% 2.2%
Not for profit companies 1,086 13.8% -9.7%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
-1.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Shorewood stands at 3.2%, 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 Shorewood

How people get around in Shorewood

Commuting methods vary: 62.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 8.7% 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 4,866 62.5% -4.4%
Bus or trolleybus 211 2.7% -25.7%
Railroad 17 0.2% N/A
Motorcycle 12 0.2% -14.3%
Bicycle 132 1.7% -5.0%
Walk 675 8.7% 4.8%
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 Shorewood by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53211 34,234 15,146 $75,256 $125,688

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FAQs about Shorewood demographics 

What is the total population of Shorewood?

Shorewood has a total population of 13,627 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 Shorewood?

The gender ratio in Shorewood is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (6,749 residents)
  • 50.5% females (6,878 residents)

What is the median age in Shorewood?

The median age in Shorewood is 38.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Shorewood?

The age distribution in Shorewood is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (2,103 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.9% (1,756 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.4% (3,863 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.9% (3,529 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.4% (2,376 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Shorewood?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Shorewood is as follows:
  • White: 79.4% (10,815 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4% (542 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (53 residents)
  • Asian: 5.5% (751 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.5% (1,154 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (312 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.2% of the population in Shorewood.

How many housing units are there in Shorewood?

There are 6,887 housing units in Shorewood, reflecting a -1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Shorewood has a total of 6,619 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Shorewood?

Shorewood has a median household income of $86,726, representing a -2.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.8% in Shorewood, with a workforce of 7,866 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 90.9% (7,151 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 9.1% (715 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.4% (739 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.2% (4,423 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.6% (1,618 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.8% (1,086 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