Sturgeon Bay, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
9,806
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,926/yr
5.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,922
4.2% year-over-year change

Sturgeon Bay population

How many people live in Sturgeon Bay

Sturgeon Bay is home to 9,806 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Sturgeon Bay locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
9,806
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
4,882
Female
50.2%
4,924
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,882 49.8% 3.3%
Female 4,924 50.2% -1.0%
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 Sturgeon Bay is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 14% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.3% of the population, while another 26.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
14%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
24.3%
45 to 64
26.8%
Over 65
25.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,372 14% -1.9%
15 to 24 969 9.9% 9.7%
25 to 44 2,379 24.3% 5.1%
45 to 64 2,628 26.8% -1.6%
Over 65 2,458 25.1% -1.1%
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 Sturgeon Bay, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 8.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,499 96.9% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 154 1.6% 27.3%
Non-citizens 153 1.6% 135.4%
Racial breakdown
White
88.3%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.4%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.3%
Other
0.1%
Value Percent
White 8,663 88.3%
Black or African American 1 0%
American Indian and Alaska Native 233 2.4%
Asian 85 0.9%
Two or more races 817 8.3%
Other 7 0.1%

Households in Sturgeon Bay

A peek inside Sturgeon Bay households

Sturgeon Bay has 5,160 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 47.8% are families, while the remaining 52.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,160
4.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,696
Family households
2,464
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,696 52.2% 7.5%
Family households 2,464 47.8% 2.2%
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 Sturgeon Bay

The housing landscape of Sturgeon Bay

Sturgeon Bay's housing consists of 5,922 units, with 59.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1% 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 7.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,922
4.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,498 59.1%
1 unit, attached 57 1%
2 units 355 6%
3 or 4 units 293 5%
5 to 9 units 543 9.2%
10 to 19 units 441 7.4%
20 to 49 units 274 4.6%
50 or more units 29 0.5%
Mobile home 432 7.3%
Homes built since 2020
78
129.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sturgeon Bay

In Sturgeon Bay, the median construction year is 1979. About 16.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.7% 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 984 16.6% -1.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 440 7.4% -6.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 239 4% -2.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 428 7.2% 21.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,006 17% -13.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 694 11.7% 27.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 402 6.8% -18.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 842 14.2% 26.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 809 13.7% 12.4%
Built in 2020 or later 78 1.3% 129.4%
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.

Sturgeon Bay occupancy rates

Out of the 5,160 occupied housing units in Sturgeon Bay, 60.4% are owner-occupied, while 39.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,160
4.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,042
Owner occupied
3,118
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,042 39.6% 15.7%
Owner occupied 3,118 60.4% -1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
12.9%
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.

Sturgeon Bay housing costs

Housing costs in Sturgeon Bay come to a median of $1,000 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,097.

Median housing costs per month
$1,000/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 Sturgeon Bay
$1,097/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 Sturgeon Bay

Sturgeon Bay education at a glance

About 30.6% of the population in Sturgeon Bay went to high school, while 27.7% pursued college studies. Another 16.4% earned an associate degree and 18.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 85 1% 88.9%
High school diploma 2,515 30.6% -6.4%
College diploma 2,273 27.7% 9.9%
Associate degree 1,351 16.4% 22.4%
Bachelor's degree 1,495 18.2% -1.9%
Graduate degree 498 6.1% -24.0%
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 Sturgeon Bay

How much people earn in Sturgeon Bay

The average annual household income in Sturgeon Bay was $81,391 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,926, reflecting a +5.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sturgeon Bay
$81,391/year
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sturgeon Bay
$59,926/year
5.3% year-over-year change

Sturgeon Bay income by age

In Sturgeon Bay, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,307. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $69,728 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,550, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,596 in earnings. Overall, 90.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,550 -2.5%
25 - 44 $76,307 7.2%
45 - 64 $69,728 0.5%
Over 65 $52,596 12.7%
Above poverty level
8,642
Below poverty level
888
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,642 90.7% 2.3%
Below poverty level 888 9.3% -5.7%

Average renter income in Sturgeon Bay

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sturgeon Bay, their median household income was $43,405 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$43,405
Rent-to-income ratio
30.3%
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 Sturgeon Bay

Workforce and job types in Sturgeon Bay

The job market in Sturgeon Bay is powered by 5,057 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.5% run their own businesses, 60.6% are employed by private companies, and 15.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,057
3.6% year-over-year change
White collar
3,783
Blue collar
1,274
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,783 74.8% 1.4%
Blue collar 1,274 25.2% 10.9%
Employer type
Self employees
14.5%
Private companies
60.6%
Governmental workers
15.7%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 732 14.5% 17.5%
Private companies 3,065 60.6% -2.2%
Governmental workers 796 15.7% 19.3%
Not for profit companies 464 9.2% 1.3%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
-28.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sturgeon Bay 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 Sturgeon Bay

How people get around in Sturgeon Bay

Commuting methods vary: 82.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% 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 4,233 82.7% 2.9%
Railroad 20 0.4% 17.6%
Bicycle 70 1.4% 4.5%
Walk 174 3.4% -12.6%
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 Sturgeon Bay by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54235 17,749 8,940 $70,212 $100,120

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FAQs about Sturgeon Bay demographics 

What is the total population of Sturgeon Bay?

Sturgeon Bay has a total population of 9,806 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 +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sturgeon Bay?

The gender ratio in Sturgeon Bay is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (4,882 residents)
  • 50.2% females (4,924 residents)

What is the median age in Sturgeon Bay?

The median age in Sturgeon Bay is 45.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sturgeon Bay?

The age distribution in Sturgeon Bay is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14% (1,372 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (969 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.3% (2,379 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.8% (2,628 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.1% (2,458 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sturgeon Bay?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sturgeon Bay is as follows:
  • White: 88.3% (8,663 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (1 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.4% (233 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (85 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.3% (817 residents)
  • Other: 0.1% (7 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Sturgeon Bay.

How many housing units are there in Sturgeon Bay?

There are 5,922 housing units in Sturgeon Bay, reflecting a +4.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sturgeon Bay has a total of 5,160 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sturgeon Bay?

Sturgeon Bay has a median household income of $59,926, representing a +5.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Sturgeon Bay?

The employment rate is 96.8% in Sturgeon Bay, with a workforce of 5,057 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.8% (3,783 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.2% (1,274 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.5% (732 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.6% (3,065 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.7% (796 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (464 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