Portage, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,236
-1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$64,722/yr
3.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,446
2.6% year-over-year change

Portage population

How many people live in Portage

Portage is home to 10,236 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 54.4% of Portage locals are male, and 45.6% are female.

Total population
10,236
-1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
54.4%
5,573
Female
45.6%
4,663
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,573 54.4% 3.1%
Female 4,663 45.6% -6.2%
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 Portage is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.1% are children under 15, then 12.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 32.6% of the population, while another 23.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.1%
15 to 24
12.6%
25 to 44
32.6%
45 to 64
23.8%
Over 65
14.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,644 16.1% -0.9%
15 to 24 1,291 12.6% -10.7%
25 to 44 3,340 32.6% -2.5%
45 to 64 2,441 23.8% 0.5%
Over 65 1,520 14.8% 7.6%
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 Portage, 95.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85% of locals are Caucasian, 6.1% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.5%
Non-citizens
1.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,740 95.2% -1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 360 3.5% -2.7%
Non-citizens 136 1.3% 7.9%
Racial breakdown
White
85%
Black or African American
6.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.3%
Other
3.1%
Value Percent
White 8,699 85%
Black or African American 621 6.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 62 0.6%
Asian 95 0.9%
Two or more races 444 4.3%
Other 315 3.1%

Households in Portage

A peek inside Portage households

Portage has 4,132 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.6% are families, while the remaining 45.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,132
-0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,874
Family households
2,258
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,874 45.4% 6.5%
Family households 2,258 54.6% -5.5%
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 Portage

The housing landscape of Portage

Portage's housing consists of 4,446 units, with 56% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.2% 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 3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,446
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,492 56%
1 unit, attached 143 3.2%
2 units 387 8.7%
3 or 4 units 251 5.6%
5 to 9 units 232 5.2%
10 to 19 units 390 8.8%
20 to 49 units 152 3.4%
50 or more units 268 6%
Mobile home 131 3%
Homes built since 2020
53
-5.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Portage

In Portage, the median construction year is 1962. About 26.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,176 26.4% 26.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 288 6.5% -5.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 705 15.9% -3.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 263 5.9% -19.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 449 10.1% -4.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 441 9.9% -19.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 367 8.2% 3.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 511 11.5% 12.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 193 4.3% 19.9%
Built in 2020 or later 53 1.2% -5.4%
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.

Portage occupancy rates

Out of the 4,132 occupied housing units in Portage, 58.6% are owner-occupied, while 41.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,132
-0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,712
Owner occupied
2,420
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,712 41.4% -3.8%
Owner occupied 2,420 58.6% 2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
7.1%
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.

Portage housing costs

Housing costs in Portage come to a median of $1,048 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,008.

Median housing costs per month
$1,048/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 Portage
$1,008/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 Portage

Portage education at a glance

About 42.7% of the population in Portage went to high school, while 26.2% pursued college studies. Another 10.8% earned an associate degree and 10.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 182 2.2% -6.2%
High school diploma 3,537 42.7% -5.7%
College diploma 2,168 26.2% -1.3%
Associate degree 896 10.8% -1.3%
Bachelor's degree 882 10.7% 18.7%
Graduate degree 611 7.4% 2.2%
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 Portage

How much people earn in Portage

The average annual household income in Portage was $77,995 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $64,722, reflecting a +3.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Portage
$77,995/year
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Portage
$64,722/year
3.1% year-over-year change

Portage income by age

In Portage, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,646. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,098 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $20,720, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,264 in earnings. Overall, 86.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $20,720 N/A
25 - 44 $75,646 6.5%
45 - 64 $76,098 -3.1%
Over 65 $38,264 -2.2%
Above poverty level
7,727
Below poverty level
1,199
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,727 86.6% -1.9%
Below poverty level 1,199 13.4% -5.5%

Average renter income in Portage

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Portage, their median household income was $40,652 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$40,652
Rent-to-income ratio
29.8%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Portage

Workforce and job types in Portage

The job market in Portage is powered by 4,927 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.3% run their own businesses, 75.5% are employed by private companies, and 11% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,927
-2.8% year-over-year change
White collar
3,233
Blue collar
1,694
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,233 65.6% -4.9%
Blue collar 1,694 34.4% 1.4%
Employer type
Self employees
6.3%
Private companies
75.5%
Governmental workers
11%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 310 6.3% -9.4%
Private companies 3,720 75.5% -0.3%
Governmental workers 541 11% -10.1%
Not for profit companies 356 7.2% -10.1%
Unemployment rate
3.7%
-32.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Portage stands at 3.7%, 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 Portage

How people get around in Portage

In Portage, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
-9.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,228 88.3% -3.9%
Taxicab 20 0.4% 5.3%
Bus or trolleybus 28 0.6% 366.7%
Bicycle 36 0.8% -34.5%
Walk 138 2.9% 0.7%
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 Portage by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53901 14,291 5,799 $74,092 $88,301

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FAQs about Portage demographics 

What is the total population of Portage?

Portage has a total population of 10,236 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 -1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Portage?

The gender ratio in Portage is as follows:
  • 54.4% males (5,573 residents)
  • 45.6% females (4,663 residents)

What is the median age in Portage?

The median age in Portage is 37.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Portage?

The age distribution in Portage is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.1% (1,644 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.6% (1,291 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 32.6% (3,340 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.8% (2,441 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.8% (1,520 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Portage?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Portage is as follows:
  • White: 85% (8,699 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.1% (621 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (62 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (95 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.3% (444 residents)
  • Other: 3.1% (315 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.2% of the population in Portage.

How many housing units are there in Portage?

There are 4,446 housing units in Portage, reflecting a +2.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Portage has a total of 4,132 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Portage?

Portage has a median household income of $64,722, representing a +3.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Portage?

The employment rate is 96.3% in Portage, with a workforce of 4,927 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.6% (3,233 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.4% (1,694 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.3% (310 residents)
  • Private companies: 75.5% (3,720 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11% (541 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (356 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