Milwaukee, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
566,973
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,234/yr
4.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
259,101
0.4% year-over-year change

Milwaukee population

How many people live in Milwaukee

Milwaukee is home to 566,973 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Milwaukee locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
566,973
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
274,137
Female
51.6%
292,836
Value Percent YoY change
Male 274,137 48.4% -0.5%
Female 292,836 51.6% -0.4%
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 Milwaukee is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.2% are children under 15, then 15.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.3% of the population, while another 20.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.2%
15 to 24
15.9%
25 to 44
30.3%
45 to 64
20.7%
Over 65
12%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 120,147 21.2% -1.7%
15 to 24 90,053 15.9% 0.2%
25 to 44 171,562 30.3% 0.2%
45 to 64 117,321 20.7% -1.9%
Over 65 67,890 12% 1.4%
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 Milwaukee, 86.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 34.2% of locals are Caucasian, 38.5% are African American and 5.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 14.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
86.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.8%
Non-citizens
6.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 490,516 86.5% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 38,515 6.8% 4.5%
Non-citizens 37,942 6.7% 0.1%
Racial breakdown
White
34.2%
Black or African American
38.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
5.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
14.7%
Other
6.7%
Value Percent
White 194,188 34.2%
Black or African American 218,392 38.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4,310 0.8%
Asian 28,807 5.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 55 0%
Two or more races 83,104 14.7%
Other 38,117 6.7%

Households in Milwaukee

A peek inside Milwaukee households

Milwaukee has 232,520 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.9% are families, while the remaining 49.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
232,520
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
114,230
Family households
118,290
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 114,230 49.1% 1.9%
Family households 118,290 50.9% -0.6%
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 Milwaukee

The housing landscape of Milwaukee

Milwaukee's housing consists of 259,101 units, with 39.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.3% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
259,101
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 101,402 39.1%
1 unit, attached 11,162 4.3%
2 units 55,628 21.5%
3 or 4 units 19,321 7.5%
5 to 9 units 15,090 5.8%
10 to 19 units 9,879 3.8%
20 to 49 units 17,665 6.8%
50 or more units 27,950 10.8%
Mobile home 914 0.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 90 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,270
46.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Milwaukee

In Milwaukee, the median construction year is 1953. About 34% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 88,129 34% -1.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 27,899 10.8% -0.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 49,410 19.1% 1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 29,392 11.3% -1.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 23,424 9% -1.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,271 4% 5.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 8,925 3.4% -1.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 10,698 4.1% 11.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 9,683 3.7% 8.7%
Built in 2020 or later 1,270 0.5% 46.8%
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.

Milwaukee occupancy rates

Out of the 232,520 occupied housing units in Milwaukee, 41.8% are owner-occupied, while 58.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
232,520
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
135,297
Owner occupied
97,223
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 135,297 58.2% 0.1%
Owner occupied 97,223 41.8% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
10.3%
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.

Milwaukee housing costs

Housing costs in Milwaukee come to a median of $1,109 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,059.

Median housing costs per month
$1,109/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 Milwaukee
$1,059/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 Milwaukee

Milwaukee education at a glance

About 40.6% of the population in Milwaukee went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 6.5% earned an associate degree and 16.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 22,808 5.4% 3.1%
High school diploma 171,667 40.6% -0.9%
College diploma 95,852 22.6% -3.7%
Associate degree 27,695 6.5% 1.6%
Bachelor's degree 69,762 16.5% 2.8%
Graduate degree 35,448 8.4% 4.5%
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 Milwaukee

How much people earn in Milwaukee

The average annual household income in Milwaukee was $73,283 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,234, reflecting a +4.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Milwaukee
$73,283/year
3.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Milwaukee
$54,234/year
4.5% year-over-year change

Milwaukee income by age

In Milwaukee, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,732. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $58,758 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $31,982, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,004 in earnings. Overall, 77.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $31,982 3.8%
25 - 44 $60,732 6.7%
45 - 64 $58,758 5.3%
Over 65 $42,004 -0.9%
Above poverty level
422,585
Below poverty level
123,669
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 422,585 77.4% 0.2%
Below poverty level 123,669 22.6% -2.6%

Average renter income in Milwaukee

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Milwaukee, their median household income was $36,466 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$36,466
Rent-to-income ratio
34.8%
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 Milwaukee

Workforce and job types in Milwaukee

The job market in Milwaukee is powered by 265,636 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.9% run their own businesses, 70.2% are employed by private companies, and 11.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
265,636
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
196,363
Blue collar
69,273
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 196,363 73.9% 0.5%
Blue collar 69,273 26.1% 0.3%
Employer type
Self employees
5.9%
Private companies
70.2%
Governmental workers
11.1%
Not for profit companies
12.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 15,721 5.9% 2.6%
Private companies 186,609 70.2% -0.0%
Governmental workers 29,595 11.1% -1.2%
Not for profit companies 33,711 12.7% 3.9%
Unemployment rate
6.2%
4.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Milwaukee stands at 6.2%, 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 Milwaukee

How people get around in Milwaukee

In Milwaukee, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 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
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 198,958 76.1% -1.6%
Taxicab 996 0.4% 25.0%
Bus or trolleybus 12,743 4.9% -6.9%
Subway or elevated 40 0% N/A
Railroad 53 0% 23.3%
Ferryboat 20 0% 42.9%
Motorcycle 118 0% 40.5%
Bicycle 1,384 0.5% 10.5%
Walk 10,496 4% 2.1%
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 Milwaukee by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53202 25,861 16,850 $71,034 $101,574
53203 2,357 1,585 $86,159 $116,576
53204 39,996 13,964 $45,934 $63,924
53205 9,265 3,539 $31,529 $45,166
53206 19,887 7,572 $29,336 $48,335
53207 34,313 16,423 $79,117 $97,469
53208 27,201 11,696 $52,690 $73,060
53209 45,170 19,518 $48,486 $66,023
53210 23,922 9,155 $48,217 $58,683
53211 34,234 15,146 $75,256 $125,688

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FAQs about Milwaukee demographics 

What is the total population of Milwaukee?

Milwaukee has a total population of 566,973 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Milwaukee?

The gender ratio in Milwaukee is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (274,137 residents)
  • 51.6% females (292,836 residents)

What is the median age in Milwaukee?

The median age in Milwaukee is 32.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Milwaukee?

The age distribution in Milwaukee is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.2% (120,147 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.9% (90,053 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.3% (171,562 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.7% (117,321 residents)
  • Over 65: 12% (67,890 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Milwaukee?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Milwaukee is as follows:
  • White: 34.2% (194,188 residents)
  • Black or African American: 38.5% (218,392 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (4,310 residents)
  • Asian: 5.1% (28,807 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (55 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.7% (83,104 residents)
  • Other: 6.7% (38,117 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 86.5% of the population in Milwaukee.

How many housing units are there in Milwaukee?

There are 259,101 housing units in Milwaukee, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Milwaukee has a total of 232,520 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee has a median household income of $54,234, representing a +4.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.8% in Milwaukee, with a workforce of 265,636 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.9% (196,363 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.1% (69,273 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.9% (15,721 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.2% (186,609 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.1% (29,595 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.7% (33,711 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