Oconto County, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
39,589
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$75,049/yr
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
24,072
0.3% year-over-year change

Oconto County population

How many people live in Oconto County

Oconto County is home to 39,589 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.6% of Oconto County locals are male, and 48.4% are female.

Total population
39,589
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.6%
20,443
Female
48.4%
19,146
Value Percent YoY change
Male 20,443 51.6% 1.0%
Female 19,146 48.4% 0.3%
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 Oconto County is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.8% are children under 15, then 9.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.6% of the population, while another 30.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.8%
15 to 24
9.8%
25 to 44
21.6%
45 to 64
30.1%
Over 65
22.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,273 15.8% -0.9%
15 to 24 3,866 9.8% -0.9%
25 to 44 8,562 21.6% 0.8%
45 to 64 11,913 30.1% -0.3%
Over 65 8,975 22.7% 3.6%
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 Oconto County, 98.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 93.5% of locals are Caucasian, 0.1% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 38,977 98.4% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 444 1.1% 21.6%
Non-citizens 168 0.4% 11.3%
Racial breakdown
White
93.5%
Black or African American
0.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.1%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 37,016 93.5%
Black or African American 57 0.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 539 1.4%
Asian 140 0.4%
Two or more races 1,631 4.1%
Other 206 0.5%

Households in Oconto County

A peek inside Oconto County households

Oconto County has 16,811 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 68.1% are families, while the remaining 31.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
16,811
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,357
Family households
11,454
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,357 31.9% 3.8%
Family households 11,454 68.1% -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 Oconto County

The housing landscape of Oconto County

Oconto County's housing consists of 24,072 units, with 82% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.8% 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 10.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
24,072
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 19,747 82%
1 unit, attached 183 0.8%
2 units 378 1.6%
3 or 4 units 277 1.2%
5 to 9 units 481 2%
10 to 19 units 154 0.6%
20 to 49 units 152 0.6%
50 or more units 138 0.6%
Mobile home 2,560 10.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2 0%
Homes built since 2020
322
55.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Oconto County

In Oconto County, the median construction year is 1981. About 14.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8% 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 3,477 14.4% -0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 956 4% -3.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,824 7.6% 0.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,039 8.5% 4.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,435 14.3% -0.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,568 10.7% -3.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,708 15.4% -4.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,825 15.9% 4.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,918 8% 3.8%
Built in 2020 or later 322 1.3% 55.6%
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.

Oconto County occupancy rates

Out of the 16,811 occupied housing units in Oconto County, 85% are owner-occupied, while 15% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 30.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
16,811
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,519
Owner occupied
14,292
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,519 15% -2.0%
Owner occupied 14,292 85% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
30.2%
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.

Oconto County housing costs

Housing costs in Oconto County come to a median of $913 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $791.

Median housing costs per month
$913/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 Oconto County
$791/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 Oconto County

Oconto County education at a glance

About 45.4% of the population in Oconto County went to high school, while 20.1% pursued college studies. Another 14.8% earned an associate degree and 13.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 517 1.6% -1.5%
High school diploma 14,445 45.4% -1.9%
College diploma 6,399 20.1% 1.1%
Associate degree 4,692 14.8% 9.8%
Bachelor's degree 4,190 13.2% 1.1%
Graduate degree 1,557 4.9% 4.7%
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 Oconto County

How much people earn in Oconto County

The average annual household income in Oconto County was $92,497 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $75,049, reflecting a -1.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Oconto County
$92,497/year
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Oconto County
$75,049/year
-1.1% year-over-year change

Oconto County income by age

In Oconto County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $94,234. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,129 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $71,184, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,783 in earnings. Overall, 91.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $71,184 5.0%
25 - 44 $94,234 1.6%
45 - 64 $89,129 0.2%
Over 65 $52,783 -2.3%
Above poverty level
35,431
Below poverty level
3,176
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 35,431 91.8% 0.6%
Below poverty level 3,176 8.2% -1.9%

Employment in Oconto County

Workforce and job types in Oconto County

The job market in Oconto County is powered by 19,514 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.3% run their own businesses, 69.9% are employed by private companies, and 11.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
19,514
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
12,436
Blue collar
7,078
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,436 63.7% 2.4%
Blue collar 7,078 36.3% -3.0%
Employer type
Self employees
11.3%
Private companies
69.9%
Governmental workers
11.8%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,207 11.3% 2.1%
Private companies 13,646 69.9% 0.9%
Governmental workers 2,296 11.8% -3.2%
Not for profit companies 1,365 7% -1.4%
Unemployment rate
2.0%
-8.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Oconto County stands at 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 Oconto County

How people get around in Oconto County

Commuting methods vary: 84.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,130 84.2% -2.5%
Bus or trolleybus 3 0% -66.7%
Ferryboat 13 0.1% 8.3%
Motorcycle 13 0.1% -23.5%
Bicycle 19 0.1% 58.3%
Walk 325 1.7% 1.9%
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 Oconto County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54124 3,414 1,419 $60,703 $73,615
54137 1,087 464 $85,714 $97,810
54138 787 366 $67,000 $100,294
54139 3,130 1,292 $78,013 $89,664
54141 2,861 1,143 $101,553 $124,077
54149 1,210 625 $50,250 $64,665
54153 7,551 3,307 $70,684 $84,798
54101 2,998 1,130 $94,500 $110,503
54112 2,716 1,070 $71,141 $80,955
54114 5,926 2,757 $59,217 $73,968

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FAQs about Oconto County demographics 

What is the total population of Oconto County?

Oconto County has a total population of 39,589 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 Oconto County?

The gender ratio in Oconto County is as follows:
  • 51.6% males (20,443 residents)
  • 48.4% females (19,146 residents)

What is the median age in Oconto County?

The median age in Oconto County is 47.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Oconto County?

The age distribution in Oconto County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.8% (6,273 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.8% (3,866 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.6% (8,562 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30.1% (11,913 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.7% (8,975 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Oconto County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Oconto County is as follows:
  • White: 93.5% (37,016 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.1% (57 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (539 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (140 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.1% (1,631 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (206 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.4% of the population in Oconto County.

How many housing units are there in Oconto County?

There are 24,072 housing units in Oconto County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Oconto County has a total of 16,811 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Oconto County?

Oconto County has a median household income of $75,049, representing a -1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Oconto County?

The employment rate is 98% in Oconto County, with a workforce of 19,514 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.7% (12,436 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.3% (7,078 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.3% (2,207 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.9% (13,646 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.8% (2,296 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (1,365 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