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

Total population
23,647
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,431/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
24,876
0.4% year-over-year change

Vilas County population

How many people live in Vilas County

Vilas County is home to 23,647 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.8% of Vilas County locals are male, and 48.2% are female.

Total population
23,647
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.8%
12,259
Female
48.2%
11,388
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,259 51.8% 0.9%
Female 11,388 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 Vilas County is 56, with the population distributed as follows: about 13% are children under 15, then 7.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 17.2% of the population, while another 30.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 31.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
55.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
13%
15 to 24
7.8%
25 to 44
17.2%
45 to 64
30.2%
Over 65
31.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,079 13% -0.7%
15 to 24 1,851 7.8% -1.9%
25 to 44 4,075 17.2% 3.8%
45 to 64 7,129 30.2% -0.9%
Over 65 7,513 31.8% 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 Vilas County, 98% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 23,163 98% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 396 1.7% 17.2%
Non-citizens 88 0.4% -2.2%
Racial breakdown
White
85.2%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
8.5%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 20,150 85.2%
Black or African American 65 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,015 8.5%
Asian 91 0.4%
Two or more races 1,174 5%
Other 152 0.6%

Households in Vilas County

A peek inside Vilas County households

Vilas County has 11,147 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.6% are families, while the remaining 38.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,147
2.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,280
Family households
6,867
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,280 38.4% 3.2%
Family households 6,867 61.6% 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 Vilas County

The housing landscape of Vilas County

Vilas County's housing consists of 24,876 units, with 86.8% 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 6.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
24,876
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 21,595 86.8%
1 unit, attached 415 1.7%
2 units 272 1.1%
3 or 4 units 185 0.7%
5 to 9 units 260 1%
10 to 19 units 289 1.2%
20 to 49 units 127 0.5%
50 or more units 8 0%
Mobile home 1,725 6.9%
Homes built since 2020
301
36.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Vilas County

In Vilas County, the median construction year is 1981. About 7.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,862 7.5% -6.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,131 4.6% -4.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,163 8.7% 0.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,187 8.8% -5.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,883 19.6% 0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,091 12.4% -0.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,535 14.2% -3.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,759 15.1% 1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,964 7.9% 27.4%
Built in 2020 or later 301 1.2% 36.2%
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.

Vilas County occupancy rates

Out of the 11,147 occupied housing units in Vilas County, 84% are owner-occupied, while 16% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 55.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,147
2.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,780
Owner occupied
9,367
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,780 16% -0.9%
Owner occupied 9,367 84% 3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
55.2%
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.

Vilas County housing costs

Housing costs in Vilas County come to a median of $880 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $847.

Median housing costs per month
$880/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 Vilas County
$847/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 Vilas County

Vilas County education at a glance

About 34.2% of the population in Vilas County went to high school, while 23.2% pursued college studies. Another 11.1% earned an associate degree and 20.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 207 1% 0.5%
High school diploma 6,770 34.2% -0.5%
College diploma 4,604 23.2% 0.6%
Associate degree 2,208 11.1% 4.7%
Bachelor's degree 4,083 20.6% 5.7%
Graduate degree 1,948 9.8% -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 Vilas County

How much people earn in Vilas County

The average annual household income in Vilas County was $88,583 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,431, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Vilas County
$88,583/year
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Vilas County
$68,431/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Vilas County income by age

In Vilas County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,371. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,176 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,344, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,060 in earnings. Overall, 89% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,344 17.1%
25 - 44 $81,371 5.4%
45 - 64 $77,176 -2.6%
Over 65 $60,060 3.1%
Above poverty level
20,692
Below poverty level
2,557
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 20,692 89% 1.3%
Below poverty level 2,557 11% 2.2%

Employment in Vilas County

Workforce and job types in Vilas County

The job market in Vilas County is powered by 10,532 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 16.7% run their own businesses, 54.3% are employed by private companies, and 18.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,532
1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
8,246
Blue collar
2,286
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,246 78.3% 1.7%
Blue collar 2,286 21.7% 0.3%
Employer type
Self employees
16.7%
Private companies
54.3%
Governmental workers
18.6%
Not for profit companies
10.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,757 16.7% -0.4%
Private companies 5,718 54.3% 2.4%
Governmental workers 1,958 18.6% 1.0%
Not for profit companies 1,099 10.4% 0.4%
Unemployment rate
4.0%
-2.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Vilas County stands at 4%, 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 Vilas County

How people get around in Vilas County

In Vilas County, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 82.9% 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.

Commute time
20 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,581 82.9% 0.6%
Bus or trolleybus 25 0.2% 19.1%
Motorcycle 45 0.4% 0.0%
Bicycle 100 1% 81.8%
Walk 353 3.4% -7.8%
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 Vilas County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54540 971 468 $68,654 $77,246
54554 1,148 537 $63,750 $89,879
54512 1,461 692 $75,147 $94,647
54519 1,309 627 $59,628 $78,694
54521 8,551 4,020 $74,071 $92,582
54538 3,025 1,258 $51,429 $87,459
54545 947 530 $80,625 $105,978
54548 5,676 2,894 $69,569 $98,607
54557 1,042 491 $74,432 $102,034
54558 2,262 1,252 $59,718 $69,656

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FAQs about Vilas County demographics 

What is the total population of Vilas County?

Vilas County has a total population of 23,647 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Vilas County?

The gender ratio in Vilas County is as follows:
  • 51.8% males (12,259 residents)
  • 48.2% females (11,388 residents)

What is the median age in Vilas County?

The median age in Vilas County is 55.7.

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

The age distribution in Vilas County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13% (3,079 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.8% (1,851 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 17.2% (4,075 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30.2% (7,129 residents)
  • Over 65: 31.8% (7,513 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Vilas County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Vilas County is as follows:
  • White: 85.2% (20,150 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (65 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 8.5% (2,015 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (91 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5% (1,174 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (152 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98% of the population in Vilas County.

How many housing units are there in Vilas County?

There are 24,876 housing units in Vilas County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Vilas County has a total of 11,147 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Vilas County?

Vilas County has a median household income of $68,431, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Vilas County?

The employment rate is 96% in Vilas County, with a workforce of 10,532 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.3% (8,246 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.7% (2,286 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 16.7% (1,757 residents)
  • Private companies: 54.3% (5,718 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.6% (1,958 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.4% (1,099 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