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

Total population
42,584
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$92,109/yr
3.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
17,152
0.6% year-over-year change

Pierce County population

How many people live in Pierce County

Pierce County is home to 42,584 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Pierce County locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
42,584
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
21,285
Female
50%
21,299
Value Percent YoY change
Male 21,285 50% 0.8%
Female 21,299 50% 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 Pierce County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 18.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.7% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
18.8%
25 to 44
22.7%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
16.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,886 16.2% -2.0%
15 to 24 7,988 18.8% -1.4%
25 to 44 9,671 22.7% 1.8%
45 to 64 10,902 25.6% 0.1%
Over 65 7,137 16.8% 4.6%
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 Pierce County, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 41,281 96.9% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 897 2.1% 19.6%
Non-citizens 406 1% -24.0%
Racial breakdown
White
92.2%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.7%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 39,265 92.2%
Black or African American 242 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 60 0.1%
Asian 501 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 22 0%
Two or more races 1,995 4.7%
Other 499 1.2%

Households in Pierce County

A peek inside Pierce County households

Pierce County has 15,867 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.8% are families, while the remaining 34.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,867
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
5,420
Family households
10,447
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,420 34.2% -2.9%
Family households 10,447 65.8% 2.6%
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 Pierce County

The housing landscape of Pierce County

Pierce County's housing consists of 17,152 units, with 73.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.9% 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 4.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
17,152
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,606 73.5%
1 unit, attached 843 4.9%
2 units 478 2.8%
3 or 4 units 843 4.9%
5 to 9 units 703 4.1%
10 to 19 units 291 1.7%
20 to 49 units 481 2.8%
50 or more units 108 0.6%
Mobile home 791 4.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8 0%
Homes built since 2020
338
55.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pierce County

In Pierce County, the median construction year is 1980. About 18.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,159 18.4% -0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 601 3.5% 11.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 895 5.2% -9.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,384 8.1% 4.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,536 14.8% -3.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,842 10.7% -5.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,173 12.7% 3.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,827 16.5% -2.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,397 8.1% 10.4%
Built in 2020 or later 338 2% 55.8%
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.

Pierce County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,867 occupied housing units in Pierce County, 75% are owner-occupied, while 25% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,867
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,962
Owner occupied
11,905
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,962 25% 3.7%
Owner occupied 11,905 75% -0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
7.5%
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.

Pierce County housing costs

Housing costs in Pierce County come to a median of $1,317 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,044.

Median housing costs per month
$1,317/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 Pierce County
$1,044/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 Pierce County

Pierce County education at a glance

About 31.7% of the population in Pierce County went to high school, while 26.1% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 21.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 241 0.7% 11.1%
High school diploma 10,753 31.7% -4.0%
College diploma 8,858 26.1% -2.3%
Associate degree 3,730 11% 2.5%
Bachelor's degree 7,413 21.8% 13.3%
Graduate degree 2,945 8.7% -2.0%
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 Pierce County

How much people earn in Pierce County

The average annual household income in Pierce County was $118,966 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +8.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $92,109, reflecting a +3.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pierce County
$118,966/year
8.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pierce County
$92,109/year
3.7% year-over-year change

Pierce County income by age

In Pierce County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $106,075. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $109,298 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,956, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,546 in earnings. Overall, 90.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,956 14.6%
25 - 44 $106,075 4.5%
45 - 64 $109,298 0.8%
Over 65 $66,546 11.5%
Above poverty level
35,869
Below poverty level
3,897
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 35,869 90.2% 0.7%
Below poverty level 3,897 9.8% 3.0%

Employment in Pierce County

Workforce and job types in Pierce County

The job market in Pierce County is powered by 23,209 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.9% run their own businesses, 70% are employed by private companies, and 13.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
23,209
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
16,572
Blue collar
6,637
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 16,572 71.4% 0.1%
Blue collar 6,637 28.6% 0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7.9%
Private companies
70%
Governmental workers
13.1%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,833 7.9% -9.9%
Private companies 16,246 70% 2.8%
Governmental workers 3,046 13.1% -8.4%
Not for profit companies 2,084 9% 3.1%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
7.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Pierce County stands at 3.2%, 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 Pierce County

How people get around in Pierce County

Commuting methods vary: 81.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.5% 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 18,244 81.6% -0.9%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0% -84.6%
Ferryboat 4 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 3 0% N/A
Bicycle 25 0.1% 4.2%
Walk 1,001 4.5% -5.7%
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 Pierce County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54003 1,065 428 $94,352 $127,149
54011 7,054 2,503 $102,636 $158,273
54014 2,026 832 $101,667 $115,078
54021 7,346 3,078 $97,321 $119,877
54022 24,789 8,799 $96,642 $118,389
54740 1,760 723 $79,387 $88,789
54750 1,047 451 $93,750 $114,435
54761 1,149 439 $75,536 $86,953
54723 973 409 $81,875 $93,606

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FAQs about Pierce County demographics 

What is the total population of Pierce County?

Pierce County has a total population of 42,584 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Pierce County?

The gender ratio in Pierce County is as follows:
  • 50% males (21,285 residents)
  • 50% females (21,299 residents)

What is the median age in Pierce County?

The median age in Pierce County is 38.8.

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

The age distribution in Pierce County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (6,886 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.8% (7,988 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.7% (9,671 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (10,902 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.8% (7,137 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pierce County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pierce County is as follows:
  • White: 92.2% (39,265 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (242 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (60 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (501 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (22 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.7% (1,995 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (499 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Pierce County.

How many housing units are there in Pierce County?

There are 17,152 housing units in Pierce County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Pierce County has a total of 15,867 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pierce County?

Pierce County has a median household income of $92,109, representing a +3.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.8% in Pierce County, with a workforce of 23,209 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.4% (16,572 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.6% (6,637 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.9% (1,833 residents)
  • Private companies: 70% (16,246 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.1% (3,046 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (2,084 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