Sun Prairie, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
37,570
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$90,942/yr
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,195
3.4% year-over-year change

Sun Prairie population

How many people live in Sun Prairie

Sun Prairie is home to 37,570 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Sun Prairie locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
37,570
3.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
18,247
Female
51.4%
19,323
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,247 48.6% 3.0%
Female 19,323 51.4% 3.1%
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 Sun Prairie is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 21% are children under 15, then 11.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.6% of the population, while another 22.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
21%
15 to 24
11.6%
25 to 44
30.6%
45 to 64
22.7%
Over 65
14.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,887 21% 4.1%
15 to 24 4,350 11.6% 4.5%
25 to 44 11,498 30.6% 2.0%
45 to 64 8,518 22.7% 1.7%
Over 65 5,317 14.2% 4.8%
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 Sun Prairie, 89.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.2% of locals are Caucasian, 8.8% are African American and 8.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.7%
Non-citizens
4.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 33,666 89.6% 1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,140 5.7% 25.6%
Non-citizens 1,764 4.7% 11.0%
Racial breakdown
White
74.2%
Black or African American
8.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
8.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
6.6%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 27,882 74.2%
Black or African American 3,292 8.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 47 0.1%
Asian 3,264 8.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 70 0.2%
Two or more races 2,487 6.6%
Other 528 1.4%

Households in Sun Prairie

A peek inside Sun Prairie households

Sun Prairie has 15,887 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.1% are families, while the remaining 38.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,887
3.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,187
Family households
9,700
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,187 38.9% 3.0%
Family households 9,700 61.1% 4.5%
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 Sun Prairie

The housing landscape of Sun Prairie

Sun Prairie's housing consists of 16,195 units, with 50.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
16,195
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,118 50.1%
1 unit, attached 1,907 11.8%
2 units 569 3.5%
3 or 4 units 816 5%
5 to 9 units 581 3.6%
10 to 19 units 894 5.5%
20 to 49 units 1,746 10.8%
50 or more units 1,564 9.7%
Homes built since 2020
454
100.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sun Prairie

In Sun Prairie, the median construction year is 1999. About 3.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 24.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 21.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 562 3.5% 3.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 380 2.4% 18.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 771 4.8% -1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,243 7.7% -1.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,533 9.5% -7.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,024 6.3% -4.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,729 16.8% -3.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,003 24.7% 10.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,496 21.6% 4.6%
Built in 2020 or later 454 2.8% 100.0%
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.

Sun Prairie occupancy rates

Out of the 15,887 occupied housing units in Sun Prairie, 60.8% are owner-occupied, while 39.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 1.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,887
3.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,222
Owner occupied
9,665
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,222 39.2% 6.4%
Owner occupied 9,665 60.8% 2.3%
Unoccupied housing units
1.9%
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.

Sun Prairie housing costs

Housing costs in Sun Prairie come to a median of $1,581 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,419.

Median housing costs per month
$1,581/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 Sun Prairie
$1,419/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 Sun Prairie

Sun Prairie education at a glance

About 22.6% of the population in Sun Prairie went to high school, while 19.7% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 31.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 256 0.9% 81.6%
High school diploma 6,340 22.6% -5.8%
College diploma 5,504 19.7% 10.7%
Associate degree 2,345 8.4% -1.4%
Bachelor's degree 8,912 31.8% 0.4%
Graduate degree 4,634 16.6% 9.2%
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 Sun Prairie

How much people earn in Sun Prairie

The average annual household income in Sun Prairie was $111,947 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $90,942, reflecting a +0.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sun Prairie
$111,947/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sun Prairie
$90,942/year
0.5% year-over-year change

Sun Prairie income by age

In Sun Prairie, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $107,612. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $108,694 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $49,107, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,919 in earnings. Overall, 93.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $49,107 4.4%
25 - 44 $107,612 2.8%
45 - 64 $108,694 -0.5%
Over 65 $60,919 5.7%
Above poverty level
34,546
Below poverty level
2,297
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 34,546 93.8% 2.7%
Below poverty level 2,297 6.2% 4.0%

Average renter income in Sun Prairie

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sun Prairie, their median household income was $57,630 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$57,630
Rent-to-income ratio
29.5%
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 Sun Prairie

Workforce and job types in Sun Prairie

The job market in Sun Prairie is powered by 20,606 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.9% run their own businesses, 64.4% are employed by private companies, and 21.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
20,606
3.0% year-over-year change
White collar
17,235
Blue collar
3,371
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 17,235 83.6% 2.3%
Blue collar 3,371 16.4% 6.4%
Employer type
Self employees
5.9%
Private companies
64.4%
Governmental workers
21.5%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,223 5.9% -8.1%
Private companies 13,261 64.4% 0.6%
Governmental workers 4,434 21.5% 13.6%
Not for profit companies 1,688 8.2% 5.3%
Unemployment rate
2.3%
17.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sun Prairie stands at 2.3%, 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 Sun Prairie

How people get around in Sun Prairie

Commuting methods vary: 76.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% 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 15,638 76.5% 1.3%
Taxicab 13 0.1% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 100 0.5% -27.5%
Motorcycle 19 0.1% -32.1%
Bicycle 169 0.8% 0.6%
Walk 313 1.5% 8.7%
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 Sun Prairie by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53590 45,602 18,853 $97,051 $119,498

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FAQs about Sun Prairie demographics 

What is the total population of Sun Prairie?

Sun Prairie has a total population of 37,570 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 +3.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sun Prairie?

The gender ratio in Sun Prairie is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (18,247 residents)
  • 51.4% females (19,323 residents)

What is the median age in Sun Prairie?

The median age in Sun Prairie is 36.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sun Prairie?

The age distribution in Sun Prairie is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21% (7,887 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.6% (4,350 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.6% (11,498 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.7% (8,518 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.2% (5,317 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sun Prairie?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sun Prairie is as follows:
  • White: 74.2% (27,882 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.8% (3,292 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (47 residents)
  • Asian: 8.7% (3,264 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (70 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.6% (2,487 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (528 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.6% of the population in Sun Prairie.

How many housing units are there in Sun Prairie?

There are 16,195 housing units in Sun Prairie, 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 Sun Prairie and what is the average household size?

Sun Prairie has a total of 15,887 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sun Prairie?

Sun Prairie has a median household income of $90,942, representing a +0.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.7% in Sun Prairie, with a workforce of 20,606 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.6% (17,235 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.4% (3,371 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.9% (1,223 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.4% (13,261 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.5% (4,434 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (1,688 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