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

Total population
18,476
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,801/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,250
0.8% year-over-year change

Sawyer County population

How many people live in Sawyer County

Sawyer County is home to 18,476 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.7% of Sawyer County locals are male, and 48.3% are female.

Total population
18,476
1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.7%
9,560
Female
48.3%
8,916
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,560 51.7% 2.3%
Female 8,916 48.3% 0.2%
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 Sawyer County is 53, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.9% are children under 15, then 8.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.6% of the population, while another 29.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 28.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
52.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.9%
15 to 24
8.8%
25 to 44
19.6%
45 to 64
29.2%
Over 65
28.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,571 13.9% -5.4%
15 to 24 1,619 8.8% -3.0%
25 to 44 3,615 19.6% 8.1%
45 to 64 5,400 29.2% -0.8%
Over 65 5,271 28.5% 4.0%
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 Sawyer County, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77.7% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,032 97.6% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 258 1.4% -8.2%
Non-citizens 186 1% 51.2%
Racial breakdown
White
77.7%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
13.2%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.8%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 14,349 77.7%
Black or African American 118 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,433 13.2%
Asian 109 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6 0%
Two or more races 1,259 6.8%
Other 202 1.1%

Households in Sawyer County

A peek inside Sawyer County households

Sawyer County has 8,810 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.3% are families, while the remaining 39.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,810
3.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,499
Family households
5,311
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,499 39.7% 5.5%
Family households 5,311 60.3% 2.1%
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 Sawyer County

The housing landscape of Sawyer County

Sawyer County's housing consists of 16,250 units, with 86.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.7% 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 5.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,250
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,063 86.5%
1 unit, attached 276 1.7%
2 units 424 2.6%
3 or 4 units 169 1%
5 to 9 units 148 0.9%
10 to 19 units 154 1%
20 to 49 units 90 0.6%
50 or more units 60 0.4%
Mobile home 837 5.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 29 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
248
62.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sawyer County

In Sawyer County, the median construction year is 1985. About 9.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 18.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,604 9.9% 7.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 869 5.4% 0.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,314 8.1% 0.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,252 7.7% -10.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,075 12.8% 2.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,922 11.8% -4.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,727 16.8% -6.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,976 18.3% 6.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,263 7.8% 10.4%
Built in 2020 or later 248 1.5% 62.1%
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.

Sawyer County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,810 occupied housing units in Sawyer County, 76.7% are owner-occupied, while 23.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 45.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,810
3.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,051
Owner occupied
6,759
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,051 23.3% 6.3%
Owner occupied 6,759 76.7% 2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
45.8%
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.

Sawyer County housing costs

Housing costs in Sawyer County come to a median of $830 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $712.

Median housing costs per month
$830/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 Sawyer County
$712/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 Sawyer County

Sawyer County education at a glance

About 38.9% of the population in Sawyer County went to high school, while 22% pursued college studies. Another 11.1% earned an associate degree and 16.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 304 2% 7.8%
High school diploma 5,936 38.9% -0.2%
College diploma 3,366 22% 3.5%
Associate degree 1,695 11.1% 3.8%
Bachelor's degree 2,587 16.9% 5.0%
Graduate degree 1,381 9% 2.5%
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 Sawyer County

How much people earn in Sawyer County

The average annual household income in Sawyer County was $81,432 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,801, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sawyer County
$81,432/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sawyer County
$60,801/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Sawyer County income by age

In Sawyer County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,083. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,621 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,875, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,824 in earnings. Overall, 84.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,875 15.5%
25 - 44 $62,083 0.4%
45 - 64 $74,621 2.3%
Over 65 $56,824 3.7%
Above poverty level
15,073
Below poverty level
2,774
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,073 84.5% 0.5%
Below poverty level 2,774 15.5% 4.7%

Employment in Sawyer County

Workforce and job types in Sawyer County

The job market in Sawyer County is powered by 7,782 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 16.4% run their own businesses, 52.2% are employed by private companies, and 18.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,782
-0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
5,790
Blue collar
1,992
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,790 74.4% -0.8%
Blue collar 1,992 25.6% 2.1%
Employer type
Self employees
16.4%
Private companies
52.2%
Governmental workers
18.3%
Not for profit companies
13.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,276 16.4% 6.9%
Private companies 4,059 52.2% -3.7%
Governmental workers 1,425 18.3% -4.5%
Not for profit companies 1,022 13.1% 15.3%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
8.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sawyer County stands at 6%, 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 Sawyer County

How people get around in Sawyer County

Commuting methods vary: 82.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% 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 6,323 82.2% -1.3%
Bus or trolleybus 51 0.7% -29.2%
Subway or elevated 30 0.4% N/A
Railroad 4 0% -20.0%
Motorcycle 3 0% 50.0%
Bicycle 8 0.1% 0.0%
Walk 164 2.1% 7.2%
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 Sawyer County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54835 933 466 $54,583 $67,167
54843 13,416 6,292 $60,619 $82,810
54862 307 156 $61,875 $76,471
54867 517 200 $41,694 $57,438
54876 1,712 782 $72,794 $95,879
54896 1,635 787 $61,080 $70,665
54517 167 86 $73,571 $83,322
54817 2,264 1,057 $83,036 $95,687
54828 546 295 $52,578 $69,279

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FAQs about Sawyer County demographics 

What is the total population of Sawyer County?

Sawyer County has a total population of 18,476 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 Sawyer County?

The gender ratio in Sawyer County is as follows:
  • 51.7% males (9,560 residents)
  • 48.3% females (8,916 residents)

What is the median age in Sawyer County?

The median age in Sawyer County is 52.8.

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

The age distribution in Sawyer County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.9% (2,571 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.8% (1,619 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.6% (3,615 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.2% (5,400 residents)
  • Over 65: 28.5% (5,271 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sawyer County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sawyer County is as follows:
  • White: 77.7% (14,349 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (118 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 13.2% (2,433 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (109 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (6 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.8% (1,259 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (202 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in Sawyer County.

How many housing units are there in Sawyer County?

There are 16,250 housing units in Sawyer County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sawyer County has a total of 8,810 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sawyer County?

Sawyer County has a median household income of $60,801, 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 Sawyer County?

The employment rate is 94% in Sawyer County, with a workforce of 7,782 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.4% (5,790 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.6% (1,992 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 16.4% (1,276 residents)
  • Private companies: 52.2% (4,059 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.3% (1,425 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.1% (1,022 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