Prairie Du Chien, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,491
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,268/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,558
3.4% year-over-year change

Prairie Du Chien population

How many people live in Prairie Du Chien

Prairie Du Chien is home to 5,491 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.8% of Prairie Du Chien locals are male, and 48.2% are female.

Total population
5,491
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.8%
2,845
Female
48.2%
2,646
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,845 51.8% -0.3%
Female 2,646 48.2% 1.1%
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 Prairie Du Chien is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.6% are children under 15, then 10.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.8% of the population, while another 27.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.6%
15 to 24
10.5%
25 to 44
22.8%
45 to 64
27.1%
Over 65
25%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 802 14.6% -2.2%
15 to 24 577 10.5% 1.1%
25 to 44 1,251 22.8% -3.7%
45 to 64 1,487 27.1% 0.3%
Over 65 1,374 25% 5.9%
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 Prairie Du Chien, 98.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.3% of locals are Caucasian, 3.2% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,389 98.1% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 75 1.4% 21.0%
Non-citizens 27 0.5% 17.4%
Racial breakdown
White
91.3%
Black or African American
3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
4%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 5,013 91.3%
Black or African American 175 3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 40 0.7%
Asian 8 0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 15 0.3%
Two or more races 219 4%
Other 21 0.4%

Households in Prairie Du Chien

A peek inside Prairie Du Chien households

Prairie Du Chien has 2,192 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.7% are families, while the remaining 42.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,192
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
927
Family households
1,265
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 927 42.3% 0.0%
Family households 1,265 57.7% 1.6%
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 Prairie Du Chien

The housing landscape of Prairie Du Chien

Prairie Du Chien's housing consists of 2,558 units, with 74.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.4% 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 2.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,558
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,897 74.2%
1 unit, attached 36 1.4%
2 units 258 10.1%
3 or 4 units 39 1.5%
5 to 9 units 94 3.7%
10 to 19 units 63 2.5%
20 to 49 units 89 3.5%
50 or more units 23 0.9%
Mobile home 59 2.3%
Homes built since 2020
15
114.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Prairie Du Chien

In Prairie Du Chien, the median construction year is 1961. About 23.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 0.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 607 23.7% -0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 236 9.2% 16.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 421 16.5% 6.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 188 7.4% -16.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 479 18.7% 27.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 272 10.6% -9.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 252 9.8% -2.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 72 2.8% -20.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 16 0.6% 77.8%
Built in 2020 or later 15 0.6% 114.3%
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.

Prairie Du Chien occupancy rates

Out of the 2,192 occupied housing units in Prairie Du Chien, 66.8% are owner-occupied, while 33.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,192
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
727
Owner occupied
1,465
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 727 33.2% -6.8%
Owner occupied 1,465 66.8% 5.2%
Unoccupied housing units
14.3%
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.

Prairie Du Chien housing costs

Housing costs in Prairie Du Chien come to a median of $772 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $795.

Median housing costs per month
$772/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 Prairie Du Chien
$795/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 Prairie Du Chien

Prairie Du Chien education at a glance

About 50.8% of the population in Prairie Du Chien went to high school, while 22.1% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 11.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 38 0.8% -50.6%
High school diploma 2,306 50.8% 0.7%
College diploma 1,002 22.1% 13.5%
Associate degree 502 11% -2.9%
Bachelor's degree 531 11.7% -7.3%
Graduate degree 162 3.6% 11.7%
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 Prairie Du Chien

How much people earn in Prairie Du Chien

The average annual household income in Prairie Du Chien was $69,745 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,268, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Prairie Du Chien
$69,745/year
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Prairie Du Chien
$54,268/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Prairie Du Chien income by age

In Prairie Du Chien, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,167. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,268 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $49,280, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,083 in earnings. Overall, 82.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $49,280 -0.4%
25 - 44 $69,167 -0.8%
45 - 64 $75,268 32.2%
Over 65 $42,083 -2.3%
Above poverty level
3,899
Below poverty level
802
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,899 82.9% -4.1%
Below poverty level 802 17.1% 16.2%

Average renter income in Prairie Du Chien

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Prairie Du Chien, their median household income was $38,417 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 24.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$38,417
Rent-to-income ratio
24.8%
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 Prairie Du Chien

Workforce and job types in Prairie Du Chien

The job market in Prairie Du Chien is powered by 2,236 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.3% run their own businesses, 67.7% are employed by private companies, and 13.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,236
-2.9% year-over-year change
White collar
1,528
Blue collar
708
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,528 68.3% -2.0%
Blue collar 708 31.7% -4.7%
Employer type
Self employees
13.3%
Private companies
67.7%
Governmental workers
13.2%
Not for profit companies
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 298 13.3% 10.8%
Private companies 1,514 67.7% -9.9%
Governmental workers 295 13.2% 25.0%
Not for profit companies 129 5.8% 9.3%
Unemployment rate
2.1%
-6.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Prairie Du Chien stands at 2.1%, 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 Prairie Du Chien

How people get around in Prairie Du Chien

Commuting methods vary: 89.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3% 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 1,986 89.1% -4.6%
Bus or trolleybus 38 1.7% 2.7%
Bicycle 16 0.7% -11.1%
Walk 67 3% -23.0%
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 Prairie Du Chien by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53821 7,780 3,196 $60,647 $79,990

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Prairie Du Chien demographics 

What is the total population of Prairie Du Chien?

Prairie Du Chien has a total population of 5,491 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Prairie Du Chien?

The gender ratio in Prairie Du Chien is as follows:
  • 51.8% males (2,845 residents)
  • 48.2% females (2,646 residents)

What is the median age in Prairie Du Chien?

The median age in Prairie Du Chien is 46.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Prairie Du Chien?

The age distribution in Prairie Du Chien is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.6% (802 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.5% (577 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.8% (1,251 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.1% (1,487 residents)
  • Over 65: 25% (1,374 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Prairie Du Chien?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Prairie Du Chien is as follows:
  • White: 91.3% (5,013 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.2% (175 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (40 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (8 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (15 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4% (219 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (21 residents)

What percentage of the population in Prairie Du Chien are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.1% of the population in Prairie Du Chien.

How many housing units are there in Prairie Du Chien?

There are 2,558 housing units in Prairie Du Chien, reflecting a +3.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Prairie Du Chien and what is the average household size?

Prairie Du Chien has a total of 2,192 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Prairie Du Chien?

Prairie Du Chien has a median household income of $54,268, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Prairie Du Chien?

The employment rate is 97.9% in Prairie Du Chien, with a workforce of 2,236 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.3% (1,528 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.7% (708 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.3% (298 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.7% (1,514 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.2% (295 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.8% (129 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