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

Total population
85,600
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$48,217/yr
6.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
40,781
0.4% year-over-year change

West Side Milwaukee population

How many people live in West Side Milwaukee

West Side Milwaukee is home to 85,600 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.5% of West Side Milwaukee locals are male, and 52.5% are female.

Total population
85,600
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.5%
40,647
Female
52.5%
44,953
Value Percent YoY change
Male 40,647 47.5% 0.3%
Female 44,953 52.5% -1.5%
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 West Side Milwaukee is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.6% are children under 15, then 15.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.2% of the population, while another 20.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12% are 65 or older.

Median age
33
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.6%
15 to 24
15.5%
25 to 44
30.2%
45 to 64
20.8%
Over 65
12%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 18,528 21.6% -2.9%
15 to 24 13,232 15.5% 1.5%
25 to 44 25,812 30.2% 1.9%
45 to 64 17,786 20.8% -5.0%
Over 65 10,242 12% 2.4%
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 West Side Milwaukee, 92.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 34.2% of locals are Caucasian, 48.7% are African American and 5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.1%
Non-citizens
3.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 79,196 92.5% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,480 4.1% 10.4%
Non-citizens 2,924 3.4% -5.6%
Racial breakdown
White
34.2%
Black or African American
48.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.1%
Other
3.5%
Value Percent
White 29,236 34.2%
Black or African American 41,701 48.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 472 0.6%
Asian 4,259 5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 7 0%
Two or more races 6,934 8.1%
Other 2,991 3.5%

Households in West Side Milwaukee

A peek inside West Side Milwaukee households

West Side Milwaukee has 35,140 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.7% are families, while the remaining 49.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
35,140
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
17,313
Family households
17,827
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 17,313 49.3% 1.3%
Family households 17,827 50.7% -0.4%
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 West Side Milwaukee

The housing landscape of West Side Milwaukee

West Side Milwaukee's housing consists of 40,781 units, with 38.5% 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 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
40,781
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 15,693 38.5%
1 unit, attached 1,411 3.5%
2 units 11,924 29.2%
3 or 4 units 2,425 6%
5 to 9 units 1,492 3.7%
10 to 19 units 1,351 3.3%
20 to 49 units 3,049 7.5%
50 or more units 3,192 7.8%
Mobile home 245 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
173
32.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Side Milwaukee

In West Side Milwaukee, the median construction year is 1950. About 47.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 13.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.3% 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 19,245 47.2% -2.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,637 13.8% 3.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,246 12.9% -2.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,242 8% 1.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,457 6% 3.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,228 3% 14.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 967 2.4% -3.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,222 3% 8.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,364 3.3% 17.5%
Built in 2020 or later 173 0.4% 32.1%
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.

West Side Milwaukee occupancy rates

Out of the 35,140 occupied housing units in West Side Milwaukee, 41.4% are owner-occupied, while 58.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
35,140
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
20,589
Owner occupied
14,551
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 20,589 58.6% 0.9%
Owner occupied 14,551 41.4% -0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
13.8%
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.

West Side Milwaukee housing costs

Housing costs in West Side Milwaukee come to a median of $1,022 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,000.

Median housing costs per month
$1,022/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 West Side Milwaukee
$1,000/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 West Side Milwaukee

West Side Milwaukee education at a glance

About 41.4% of the population in West Side Milwaukee went to high school, while 23% pursued college studies. Another 7.2% earned an associate degree and 17% 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 1,942 3% 3.4%
High school diploma 26,348 41.4% -1.0%
College diploma 14,681 23% -2.7%
Associate degree 4,554 7.2% -0.3%
Bachelor's degree 10,814 17% 3.9%
Graduate degree 5,340 8.4% 1.0%
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 West Side Milwaukee

How much people earn in West Side Milwaukee

The average annual household income in West Side Milwaukee was $66,598 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.9% 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 West Side Milwaukee
$66,598/year
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Side Milwaukee
$48,217/year
6.5% year-over-year change

West Side Milwaukee income by age

In West 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 $52,771 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $30,625, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,022 in earnings. Overall, 75.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $30,625 23.5%
25 - 44 $53,011 4.2%
45 - 64 $52,771 8.1%
Over 65 $40,022 5.6%
Above poverty level
61,313
Below poverty level
19,934
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 61,313 75.5% 0.4%
Below poverty level 19,934 24.5% -4.1%

Employment in West Side Milwaukee

Workforce and job types in West Side Milwaukee

78% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.6% run their own businesses, 65.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
29,757
Blue collar
8,370
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 29,757 78% 0.9%
Blue collar 8,370 22% 1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
6.6%
Private companies
65.7%
Governmental workers
12.7%
Not for profit companies
15%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,532 6.6% 10.2%
Private companies 25,055 65.7% 0.8%
Governmental workers 4,832 12.7% -2.6%
Not for profit companies 5,708 15% 1.3%

Transportation in West Side Milwaukee

How people get around in West Side Milwaukee

In West Side Milwaukee, the average commute time is 39 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
39 min
-2.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 28,020 86.5% -0.9%
Taxicab 184 0.6% -19.3%
Bus or trolleybus 2,317 7.2% -7.5%
Railroad 10 0% -9.1%
Motorcycle 22 0.1% -18.5%
Bicycle 225 0.7% 3.2%
Walk 1,602 5% 5.3%
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 West Side Milwaukee by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53205 9,265 3,539 $31,529 $45,166
53206 19,887 7,572 $29,336 $48,335
53208 27,201 11,696 $52,690 $73,060
53210 23,922 9,155 $48,217 $58,683
53213 26,905 12,590 $101,688 $125,383
53214 34,480 16,192 $60,962 $75,621
53216 30,345 11,954 $46,752 $60,740
53226 18,908 8,617 $93,132 $126,144
53233 14,497 4,731 $23,750 $33,320
53295 90 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about West Side Milwaukee demographics 

What is the total population of West Side Milwaukee?

West Side Milwaukee has a total population of 85,600 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Side Milwaukee?

The gender ratio in West Side Milwaukee is as follows:
  • 47.5% males (40,647 residents)
  • 52.5% females (44,953 residents)

What is the median age in West Side Milwaukee?

The median age in West Side Milwaukee is 33.

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

The age distribution in West Side Milwaukee is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.6% (18,528 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.5% (13,232 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.2% (25,812 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.8% (17,786 residents)
  • Over 65: 12% (10,242 residents)

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

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Side Milwaukee is as follows:
  • White: 34.2% (29,236 residents)
  • Black or African American: 48.7% (41,701 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (472 residents)
  • Asian: 5% (4,259 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (7 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.1% (6,934 residents)
  • Other: 3.5% (2,991 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.5% of the population in West Side Milwaukee.

How many housing units are there in West Side Milwaukee?

There are 40,781 housing units in West Side 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 West Side Milwaukee and what is the average household size?

West Side Milwaukee has a total of 35,140 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Side Milwaukee?

West 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 West Side Milwaukee?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78% (29,757 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22% (8,370 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.6% (2,532 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.7% (25,055 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.7% (4,832 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 15% (5,708 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