Downtown Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
9,916
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$71,034/yr
3.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,805
3.1% year-over-year change

Downtown Milwaukee population

How many people live in Downtown Milwaukee

Downtown Milwaukee is home to 9,916 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.2% of Downtown Milwaukee locals are male, and 47.8% are female.

Total population
9,916
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.2%
5,178
Female
47.8%
4,739
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,178 52.2% 1.2%
Female 4,739 47.8% 1.1%
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 Downtown Milwaukee is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 3.4% are children under 15, then 23.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 46.2% of the population, while another 16.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 10.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
3.4%
15 to 24
23.3%
25 to 44
46.2%
45 to 64
16.2%
Over 65
10.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 342 3.4% -6.3%
15 to 24 2,309 23.3% 0.9%
25 to 44 4,576 46.2% 2.9%
45 to 64 1,607 16.2% -2.7%
Over 65 1,081 10.9% 3.0%
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 Downtown Milwaukee, 90.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69% of locals are Caucasian, 15.5% are African American and 5.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.9%
Non-citizens
4.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,953 90.3% 2.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 489 4.9% -1.0%
Non-citizens 474 4.8% -14.0%
Racial breakdown
White
69%
Black or African American
15.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
5.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.6%
Other
2.7%
Value Percent
White 6,839 69%
Black or African American 1,537 15.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 94 1%
Asian 521 5.2%
Two or more races 655 6.6%
Other 271 2.7%

Households in Downtown Milwaukee

A peek inside Downtown Milwaukee households

Downtown Milwaukee has 6,006 households, with an average of 1 members in each. Of these, 19.3% are families, while the remaining 80.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,006
3.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
1
Non-family households
4,848
Family households
1,158
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,848 80.7% 4.6%
Family households 1,158 19.3% -1.1%
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 Downtown Milwaukee

The housing landscape of Downtown Milwaukee

Downtown Milwaukee's housing consists of 6,805 units, with 3.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.7% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
6,805
3.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 256 3.8%
1 unit, attached 118 1.7%
2 units 410 6%
3 or 4 units 210 3.1%
5 to 9 units 217 3.2%
10 to 19 units 456 6.7%
20 to 49 units 1,505 22.1%
50 or more units 3,620 53.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 15 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
88
33.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Downtown Milwaukee

In Downtown Milwaukee, the median construction year is 1962. About 33.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,252 33.1% -0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 376 5.5% 4.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 452 6.6% 10.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 714 10.5% 13.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 428 6.3% -8.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 419 6.2% 14.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 379 5.6% -15.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 640 9.4% 3.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,056 15.5% 7.2%
Built in 2020 or later 88 1.3% 33.3%
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.

Downtown Milwaukee occupancy rates

Out of the 6,006 occupied housing units in Downtown Milwaukee, 18% are owner-occupied, while 82% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,006
3.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,927
Owner occupied
1,079
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,927 82% 3.8%
Owner occupied 1,079 18% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
11.7%
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.

Downtown Milwaukee housing costs

Housing costs in Downtown Milwaukee come to a median of $1,457 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,259.

Median housing costs per month
$1,457/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 Downtown Milwaukee
$1,259/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 Downtown Milwaukee

Downtown Milwaukee education at a glance

About 16.3% of the population in Downtown Milwaukee went to high school, while 21.3% pursued college studies. Another 4.3% earned an associate degree and 34.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 22.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 102 1.1% 54.5%
High school diploma 1,555 16.3% -3.9%
College diploma 2,033 21.3% -3.4%
Associate degree 415 4.3% -0.9%
Bachelor's degree 3,305 34.6% 0.5%
Graduate degree 2,152 22.5% 11.2%
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 Downtown Milwaukee

How much people earn in Downtown Milwaukee

The average annual household income in Downtown Milwaukee was $91,805 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $71,034, reflecting a +3.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Downtown Milwaukee
$91,805/year
2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Downtown Milwaukee
$71,034/year
3.7% year-over-year change

Downtown Milwaukee income by age

In Downtown Milwaukee, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,735. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,042 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $38,732, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,306 in earnings. Overall, 80.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $38,732 3.4%
25 - 44 $76,735 2.9%
45 - 64 $76,042 6.2%
Over 65 $42,306 -38.0%
Above poverty level
7,224
Below poverty level
1,717
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,224 80.8% 2.4%
Below poverty level 1,717 19.2% -3.2%

Employment in Downtown Milwaukee

Workforce and job types in Downtown Milwaukee

92.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 7.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.7% run their own businesses, 70.7% are employed by private companies, and 9.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
6,271
Blue collar
517
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,271 92.4% 2.6%
Blue collar 517 7.6% -4.4%
Employer type
Self employees
6.7%
Private companies
70.7%
Governmental workers
9.1%
Not for profit companies
13.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 457 6.7% 7.3%
Private companies 4,800 70.7% 1.9%
Governmental workers 615 9.1% 1.3%
Not for profit companies 915 13.5% 0.7%

Transportation in Downtown Milwaukee

How people get around in Downtown Milwaukee

In Downtown Milwaukee, the average commute time is 2 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 72.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 20.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
2 min
-71.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,600 72.8% -2.7%
Taxicab 13 0.3% 550.0%
Bus or trolleybus 276 5.6% -9.5%
Railroad 4 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 3 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 45 0.9% 21.6%
Walk 1,002 20.3% 4.5%
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 Downtown 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
53233 14,497 4,731 $23,750 $33,320

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FAQs about Downtown Milwaukee demographics 

What is the total population of Downtown Milwaukee?

Downtown Milwaukee has a total population of 9,916 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 +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Downtown Milwaukee?

The gender ratio in Downtown Milwaukee is as follows:
  • 52.2% males (5,178 residents)
  • 47.8% females (4,739 residents)

What is the median age in Downtown Milwaukee?

The median age in Downtown Milwaukee is 31.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Downtown Milwaukee?

The age distribution in Downtown Milwaukee is as follows:
  • Under 15: 3.4% (342 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 23.3% (2,309 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 46.2% (4,576 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 16.2% (1,607 residents)
  • Over 65: 10.9% (1,081 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Downtown Milwaukee?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Downtown Milwaukee is as follows:
  • White: 69% (6,839 residents)
  • Black or African American: 15.5% (1,537 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (94 residents)
  • Asian: 5.2% (521 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.6% (655 residents)
  • Other: 2.7% (271 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.3% of the population in Downtown Milwaukee.

How many housing units are there in Downtown Milwaukee?

There are 6,805 housing units in Downtown Milwaukee, reflecting a +3.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Downtown Milwaukee has a total of 6,006 households, with an average of 1 people in each.

What is the median household income in Downtown Milwaukee?

Downtown Milwaukee has a median household income of $71,034, representing a +3.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Downtown Milwaukee?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 92.4% (6,271 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 7.6% (517 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.7% (457 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.7% (4,800 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.1% (615 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.5% (915 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