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

Total population
48,227
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,854/yr
-0.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
20,214
0.7% year-over-year change

Southwest Side Milwaukee population

How many people live in Southwest Side Milwaukee

Southwest Side Milwaukee is home to 48,227 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Southwest Side Milwaukee locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
48,227
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
23,815
Female
50.6%
24,412
Value Percent YoY change
Male 23,815 49.4% 0.1%
Female 24,412 50.6% -0.5%
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 Southwest Side Milwaukee is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.3% are children under 15, then 13.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.6% of the population, while another 23.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.3%
15 to 24
13.6%
25 to 44
28.6%
45 to 64
23.3%
Over 65
14.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,808 20.3% -2.4%
15 to 24 6,572 13.6% 5.3%
25 to 44 13,808 28.6% 0.3%
45 to 64 11,226 23.3% -1.8%
Over 65 6,813 14.1% -0.3%
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 Southwest Side Milwaukee, 76.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 45.4% of locals are Caucasian, 6.4% are African American and 5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 27.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.9%
Non-citizens
13%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 36,705 76.1% -1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,254 10.9% 6.1%
Non-citizens 6,267 13% 2.8%
Racial breakdown
White
45.4%
Black or African American
6.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
27.7%
Other
14.2%
Value Percent
White 21,894 45.4%
Black or African American 3,102 6.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 576 1.2%
Asian 2,433 5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 13,358 27.7%
Other 6,861 14.2%

Households in Southwest Side Milwaukee

A peek inside Southwest Side Milwaukee households

Southwest Side Milwaukee has 19,027 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.5% are families, while the remaining 41.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,027
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,898
Family households
11,129
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,898 41.5% 1.4%
Family households 11,129 58.5% 0.0%
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 Southwest Side Milwaukee

The housing landscape of Southwest Side Milwaukee

Southwest Side Milwaukee's housing consists of 20,214 units, with 50.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.7% 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
20,214
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,174 50.3%
1 unit, attached 744 3.7%
2 units 4,086 20.2%
3 or 4 units 1,421 7%
5 to 9 units 1,386 6.9%
10 to 19 units 767 3.8%
20 to 49 units 654 3.2%
50 or more units 933 4.6%
Mobile home 45 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 3 0%
Homes built since 2020
18
80.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Southwest Side Milwaukee

In Southwest Side Milwaukee, the median construction year is 1960. About 30.6% 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, 2.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,181 30.6% 0.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,180 10.8% -5.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,132 25.4% -1.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,239 11.1% 0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,150 10.6% 2.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 995 4.9% 11.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 592 2.9% 9.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 503 2.5% 7.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 223 1.1% 24.6%
Built in 2020 or later 18 0.1% 80.0%
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.

Southwest Side Milwaukee occupancy rates

Out of the 19,027 occupied housing units in Southwest Side Milwaukee, 55.5% are owner-occupied, while 44.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,027
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,471
Owner occupied
10,556
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,471 44.5% 1.9%
Owner occupied 10,556 55.5% -0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
5.9%
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.

Southwest Side Milwaukee housing costs

Housing costs in Southwest Side Milwaukee come to a median of $1,128 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,036.

Median housing costs per month
$1,128/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 Southwest Side Milwaukee
$1,036/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 Southwest Side Milwaukee

Southwest Side Milwaukee education at a glance

About 42.3% of the population in Southwest Side Milwaukee went to high school, while 20.7% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 14.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,322 9.2% 5.1%
High school diploma 15,309 42.3% -1.4%
College diploma 7,507 20.7% -2.6%
Associate degree 2,816 7.8% 4.4%
Bachelor's degree 5,123 14.1% 0.1%
Graduate degree 2,143 5.9% 10.1%
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 Southwest Side Milwaukee

How much people earn in Southwest Side Milwaukee

The average annual household income in Southwest Side Milwaukee was $68,937 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,854, reflecting a -0.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Southwest Side Milwaukee
$68,937/year
3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Southwest Side Milwaukee
$69,854/year
-0.4% year-over-year change

Southwest Side Milwaukee income by age

In Southwest 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 $88,510. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,391 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,830, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,040 in earnings. Overall, 83.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,830 -0.2%
25 - 44 $88,510 2.7%
45 - 64 $74,391 -1.1%
Over 65 $45,040 -3.5%
Above poverty level
39,758
Below poverty level
7,610
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 39,758 83.9% -0.1%
Below poverty level 7,610 16.1% -1.2%

Employment in Southwest Side Milwaukee

Workforce and job types in Southwest Side Milwaukee

67.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5% run their own businesses, 74.6% are employed by private companies, and 9.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
15,932
Blue collar
7,667
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 15,932 67.5% -0.2%
Blue collar 7,667 32.5% 2.2%
Employer type
Self employees
5%
Private companies
74.6%
Governmental workers
9.3%
Not for profit companies
11.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,168 5% -2.8%
Private companies 17,617 74.6% 0.9%
Governmental workers 2,203 9.3% 2.2%
Not for profit companies 2,611 11.1% -1.8%

Transportation in Southwest Side Milwaukee

How people get around in Southwest Side Milwaukee

In Southwest Side Milwaukee, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 94.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
85.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 19,779 94.9% -1.5%
Taxicab 55 0.3% 111.5%
Bus or trolleybus 539 2.6% 6.9%
Railroad 6 0% N/A
Ferryboat 4 0% 100.0%
Motorcycle 16 0.1% 128.6%
Bicycle 34 0.2% 30.8%
Walk 414 2% -11.0%
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 Southwest Side Milwaukee by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53215 58,146 19,328 $54,289 $68,341
53219 34,764 15,157 $70,388 $80,678
53220 27,782 12,245 $69,319 $89,417
53228 15,121 7,027 $75,033 $91,325

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FAQs about Southwest Side Milwaukee demographics 

What is the total population of Southwest Side Milwaukee?

Southwest Side Milwaukee has a total population of 48,227 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Southwest Side Milwaukee?

The gender ratio in Southwest Side Milwaukee is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (23,815 residents)
  • 50.6% females (24,412 residents)

What is the median age in Southwest Side Milwaukee?

The median age in Southwest Side Milwaukee is 39.

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

The age distribution in Southwest Side Milwaukee is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.3% (9,808 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.6% (6,572 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.6% (13,808 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.3% (11,226 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.1% (6,813 residents)

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

The racial and ethnic makeup of Southwest Side Milwaukee is as follows:
  • White: 45.4% (21,894 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.4% (3,102 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (576 residents)
  • Asian: 5% (2,433 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 27.7% (13,358 residents)
  • Other: 14.2% (6,861 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.1% of the population in Southwest Side Milwaukee.

How many housing units are there in Southwest Side Milwaukee?

There are 20,214 housing units in Southwest Side Milwaukee, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Southwest Side Milwaukee has a total of 19,027 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Southwest Side Milwaukee?

Southwest Side Milwaukee has a median household income of $69,854, representing a -0.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Southwest Side Milwaukee?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.5% (15,932 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.5% (7,667 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5% (1,168 residents)
  • Private companies: 74.6% (17,617 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.3% (2,203 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.1% (2,611 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