Northwest Side Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
64,153
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$48,217/yr
6.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
28,035
1.0% year-over-year change

Northwest Side Milwaukee population

How many people live in Northwest Side Milwaukee

Northwest Side Milwaukee is home to 64,153 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.4% of Northwest Side Milwaukee locals are male, and 52.6% are female.

Total population
64,153
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.4%
30,433
Female
52.6%
33,720
Value Percent YoY change
Male 30,433 47.4% 1.5%
Female 33,720 52.6% 0.1%
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 Northwest Side Milwaukee is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.4% are children under 15, then 13.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.5% of the population, while another 21.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.4%
15 to 24
13.2%
25 to 44
28.5%
45 to 64
21.8%
Over 65
12.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 15,653 24.4% 1.3%
15 to 24 8,446 13.2% -0.5%
25 to 44 18,298 28.5% 2.6%
45 to 64 13,991 21.8% -2.8%
Over 65 7,766 12.1% 3.5%
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 Northwest Side Milwaukee, 93% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 22.4% of locals are Caucasian, 62.1% are African American and 6.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.8%
Non-citizens
2.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 59,651 93% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,114 4.8% 6.0%
Non-citizens 1,388 2.2% 16.7%
Racial breakdown
White
22.4%
Black or African American
62.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
6.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.2%
Other
2.2%
Value Percent
White 14,398 22.4%
Black or African American 39,832 62.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 307 0.5%
Asian 4,243 6.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 3,968 6.2%
Other 1,403 2.2%

Households in Northwest Side Milwaukee

A peek inside Northwest Side Milwaukee households

Northwest Side Milwaukee has 25,318 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.1% are families, while the remaining 40.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
25,318
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
10,347
Family households
14,971
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 10,347 40.9% 2.0%
Family households 14,971 59.1% 0.8%
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 Northwest Side Milwaukee

The housing landscape of Northwest Side Milwaukee

Northwest Side Milwaukee's housing consists of 28,035 units, with 50.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.5% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
28,035
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,107 50.3%
1 unit, attached 981 3.5%
2 units 5,475 19.5%
3 or 4 units 2,626 9.4%
5 to 9 units 1,949 7%
10 to 19 units 656 2.3%
20 to 49 units 1,129 4%
50 or more units 1,024 3.6%
Mobile home 83 0.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 5 0%
Homes built since 2020
175
21.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Northwest Side Milwaukee

In Northwest Side Milwaukee, the median construction year is 1956. About 14.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 1.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,114 14.7% 2.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,598 12.8% -0.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,998 35.7% 1.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,702 16.8% -0.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,657 9.5% -4.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,084 3.9% 3.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 726 2.6% 2.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 374 1.3% 36.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 607 2.2% 11.2%
Built in 2020 or later 175 0.6% 21.5%
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.

Northwest Side Milwaukee occupancy rates

Out of the 25,318 occupied housing units in Northwest Side Milwaukee, 48.6% are owner-occupied, while 51.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
25,318
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
13,006
Owner occupied
12,312
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 13,006 51.4% 0.7%
Owner occupied 12,312 48.6% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
9.7%
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.

Northwest Side Milwaukee housing costs

Housing costs in Northwest Side Milwaukee come to a median of $1,102 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,067.

Median housing costs per month
$1,102/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 Northwest Side Milwaukee
$1,067/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 Northwest Side Milwaukee

Northwest Side Milwaukee education at a glance

About 43.9% of the population in Northwest Side Milwaukee went to high school, while 23.3% pursued college studies. Another 7.9% earned an associate degree and 14.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,595 3.5% 0.6%
High school diploma 20,065 43.9% 0.5%
College diploma 10,657 23.3% -3.9%
Associate degree 3,600 7.9% 6.7%
Bachelor's degree 6,778 14.8% 3.1%
Graduate degree 3,001 6.6% 3.7%
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 Northwest Side Milwaukee

How much people earn in Northwest Side Milwaukee

The average annual household income in Northwest Side Milwaukee was $71,698 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $48,217, reflecting a +6.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Northwest Side Milwaukee
$71,698/year
4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Northwest Side Milwaukee
$48,217/year
6.5% year-over-year change

Northwest Side Milwaukee income by age

In Northwest Side Milwaukee, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,011. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $54,185 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,594, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,206 in earnings. Overall, 79.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,594 75.8%
25 - 44 $53,011 4.2%
45 - 64 $54,185 5.1%
Over 65 $42,206 -1.9%
Above poverty level
50,035
Below poverty level
12,790
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 50,035 79.6% 1.4%
Below poverty level 12,790 20.4% -1.6%

Employment in Northwest Side Milwaukee

Workforce and job types in Northwest Side Milwaukee

74% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.6% run their own businesses, 67.5% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
21,067
Blue collar
7,416
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,067 74% 0.6%
Blue collar 7,416 26% 4.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.6%
Private companies
67.5%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
14.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,886 6.6% 7.3%
Private companies 19,216 67.5% 0.7%
Governmental workers 3,279 11.5% -4.0%
Not for profit companies 4,102 14.4% 8.1%

Transportation in Northwest Side Milwaukee

How people get around in Northwest Side Milwaukee

In Northwest Side Milwaukee, the average commute time is 40 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 93.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
40 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 22,621 93.9% -0.4%
Taxicab 118 0.5% 35.6%
Bus or trolleybus 1,011 4.2% -5.8%
Motorcycle 16 0.1% 23.1%
Bicycle 24 0.1% 380.0%
Walk 298 1.2% -5.1%
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 Northwest Side Milwaukee by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53210 23,922 9,155 $48,217 $58,683
53216 30,345 11,954 $46,752 $60,740
53218 41,196 15,127 $45,642 $59,764
53222 24,663 10,798 $76,980 $91,553
53225 25,187 10,014 $56,545 $71,537

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FAQs about Northwest Side Milwaukee demographics 

What is the total population of Northwest Side Milwaukee?

Northwest Side Milwaukee has a total population of 64,153 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Northwest Side Milwaukee?

The gender ratio in Northwest Side Milwaukee is as follows:
  • 47.4% males (30,433 residents)
  • 52.6% females (33,720 residents)

What is the median age in Northwest Side Milwaukee?

The median age in Northwest Side Milwaukee is 32.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Northwest Side Milwaukee?

The age distribution in Northwest Side Milwaukee is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.4% (15,653 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.2% (8,446 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.5% (18,298 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.8% (13,991 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.1% (7,766 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Northwest Side Milwaukee?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Northwest Side Milwaukee is as follows:
  • White: 22.4% (14,398 residents)
  • Black or African American: 62.1% (39,832 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (307 residents)
  • Asian: 6.6% (4,243 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.2% (3,968 residents)
  • Other: 2.2% (1,403 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93% of the population in Northwest Side Milwaukee.

How many housing units are there in Northwest Side Milwaukee?

There are 28,035 housing units in Northwest Side Milwaukee, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Northwest Side Milwaukee has a total of 25,318 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Northwest Side Milwaukee?

Northwest Side Milwaukee has a median household income of $48,217, representing a +6.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Northwest Side Milwaukee?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74% (21,067 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26% (7,416 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.6% (1,886 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.5% (19,216 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (3,279 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 14.4% (4,102 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