Sussex, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
12,066
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$119,041/yr
6.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,820
1.9% year-over-year change

Sussex population

How many people live in Sussex

Sussex is home to 12,066 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.9% of Sussex locals are male, and 49.1% are female.

Total population
12,066
2.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.9%
6,146
Female
49.1%
5,920
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,146 50.9% 7.0%
Female 5,920 49.1% -2.1%
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 Sussex is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19% are children under 15, then 13.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26% of the population, while another 28.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
19%
15 to 24
13.8%
25 to 44
26%
45 to 64
28.2%
Over 65
12.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,290 19% -2.8%
15 to 24 1,668 13.8% 7.5%
25 to 44 3,140 26% 1.2%
45 to 64 3,407 28.2% 4.3%
Over 65 1,561 12.9% 2.9%
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 Sussex, 93.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 84.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1.9% are African American and 8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.5%
Non-citizens
2.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,312 93.8% 2.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 419 3.5% 5.3%
Non-citizens 335 2.8% -8.7%
Racial breakdown
White
84.4%
Black or African American
1.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.2%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 10,183 84.4%
Black or African American 229 1.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 12 0.1%
Asian 965 8%
Two or more races 630 5.2%
Other 47 0.4%

Households in Sussex

A peek inside Sussex households

Sussex has 4,749 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.3% are families, while the remaining 34.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,749
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,649
Family households
3,100
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,649 34.7% 2.7%
Family households 3,100 65.3% 0.9%
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 Sussex

The housing landscape of Sussex

Sussex's housing consists of 4,820 units, with 62.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.7% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,820
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,002 62.3%
1 unit, attached 370 7.7%
2 units 77 1.6%
3 or 4 units 110 2.3%
5 to 9 units 395 8.2%
10 to 19 units 395 8.2%
20 to 49 units 168 3.5%
50 or more units 292 6.1%
Mobile home 11 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
358
150.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sussex

In Sussex, the median construction year is 1994. About 0.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 7.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 36 0.8% -50.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 27 0.6% 17.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 188 3.9% -24.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 436 9% 12.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 545 11.3% 19.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 715 14.8% -9.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,104 22.9% -13.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 821 17% -2.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 590 12.2% 20.4%
Built in 2020 or later 358 7.4% 150.3%
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.

Sussex occupancy rates

Out of the 4,749 occupied housing units in Sussex, 70.3% are owner-occupied, while 29.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 1.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,749
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,409
Owner occupied
3,340
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,409 29.7% -2.8%
Owner occupied 3,340 70.3% 3.4%
Unoccupied housing units
1.5%
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.

Sussex housing costs

Housing costs in Sussex come to a median of $1,547 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,369.

Median housing costs per month
$1,547/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 Sussex
$1,369/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 Sussex

Sussex education at a glance

About 20.2% of the population in Sussex went to high school, while 20.7% pursued college studies. Another 10.8% earned an associate degree and 31.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 21 0.2% -40.0%
High school diploma 1,830 20.2% 3.7%
College diploma 1,871 20.7% -7.4%
Associate degree 982 10.8% 7.3%
Bachelor's degree 2,887 31.9% -5.0%
Graduate degree 1,457 16.1% 49.1%
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 Sussex

How much people earn in Sussex

The average annual household income in Sussex was $148,981 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +10.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $119,041, reflecting a +6.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sussex
$148,981/year
10.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sussex
$119,041/year
6.3% year-over-year change

Sussex income by age

In Sussex, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $136,042. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $154,881 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $71,394, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,364 in earnings. Overall, 95.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $71,394 4.0%
25 - 44 $136,042 6.0%
45 - 64 $154,881 7.0%
Over 65 $56,364 -2.7%
Above poverty level
11,388
Below poverty level
549
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,388 95.4% 3.5%
Below poverty level 549 4.6% -16.6%

Average renter income in Sussex

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sussex, their median household income was $60,882 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$60,882
Rent-to-income ratio
27%
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 Sussex

Workforce and job types in Sussex

The job market in Sussex is powered by 6,763 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.8% run their own businesses, 76.2% are employed by private companies, and 8.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,763
2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
5,724
Blue collar
1,039
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,724 84.6% 3.9%
Blue collar 1,039 15.4% -5.0%
Employer type
Self employees
5.8%
Private companies
76.2%
Governmental workers
8.6%
Not for profit companies
9.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 389 5.8% -0.8%
Private companies 5,151 76.2% -0.3%
Governmental workers 578 8.6% 24.6%
Not for profit companies 645 9.5% 11.2%
Unemployment rate
3.1%
-17.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sussex stands at 3.1%, 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 Sussex

How people get around in Sussex

Commuting methods vary: 81.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.3% 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 5,459 81.5% 4.0%
Railroad 51 0.8% 8.5%
Walk 19 0.3% -72.9%
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 Sussex by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53089 20,588 7,861 $120,875 $150,939
53072 26,200 12,037 $98,538 $148,352

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FAQs about Sussex demographics 

What is the total population of Sussex?

Sussex has a total population of 12,066 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 +2.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sussex?

The gender ratio in Sussex is as follows:
  • 50.9% males (6,146 residents)
  • 49.1% females (5,920 residents)

What is the median age in Sussex?

The median age in Sussex is 39.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sussex?

The age distribution in Sussex is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19% (2,290 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.8% (1,668 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26% (3,140 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.2% (3,407 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.9% (1,561 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sussex?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sussex is as follows:
  • White: 84.4% (10,183 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.9% (229 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (12 residents)
  • Asian: 8% (965 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.2% (630 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (47 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.8% of the population in Sussex.

How many housing units are there in Sussex?

There are 4,820 housing units in Sussex, reflecting a +1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sussex has a total of 4,749 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sussex?

Sussex has a median household income of $119,041, representing a +6.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.9% in Sussex, with a workforce of 6,763 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.6% (5,724 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.4% (1,039 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.8% (389 residents)
  • Private companies: 76.2% (5,151 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.6% (578 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.5% (645 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