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

Total population
16,854
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,441/yr
3.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,853
0.2% year-over-year change

Washburn County population

How many people live in Washburn County

Washburn County is home to 16,854 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Washburn County locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
16,854
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
8,493
Female
49.6%
8,361
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,493 50.4% 0.6%
Female 8,361 49.6% 0.7%
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 Washburn County is 53, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.3% are children under 15, then 9.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 17.8% of the population, while another 30.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 28.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
52.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.3%
15 to 24
9.7%
25 to 44
17.8%
45 to 64
30.1%
Over 65
28.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,409 14.3% -2.3%
15 to 24 1,638 9.7% 3.1%
25 to 44 3,006 17.8% -0.5%
45 to 64 5,067 30.1% 0.2%
Over 65 4,734 28.1% 2.5%
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 Washburn County, 97.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 93% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.5%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,502 97.9% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 250 1.5% 18.5%
Non-citizens 102 0.6% -17.1%
Racial breakdown
White
93%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 15,666 93%
Black or African American 45 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 170 1%
Asian 78 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 3 0%
Two or more races 773 4.6%
Other 119 0.7%

Households in Washburn County

A peek inside Washburn County households

Washburn County has 7,566 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63% are families, while the remaining 37% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,566
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,798
Family households
4,768
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,798 37% -0.1%
Family households 4,768 63% 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 Washburn County

The housing landscape of Washburn County

Washburn County's housing consists of 12,853 units, with 86.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.6% 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
12,853
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,158 86.8%
1 unit, attached 202 1.6%
2 units 265 2.1%
3 or 4 units 47 0.4%
5 to 9 units 97 0.8%
10 to 19 units 86 0.7%
20 to 49 units 90 0.7%
50 or more units 7 0%
Mobile home 890 6.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 11 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
134
100.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Washburn County

In Washburn County, the median construction year is 1982. About 10.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,332 10.4% 4.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 676 5.3% -7.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 885 6.9% 4.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,138 8.8% 0.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,105 16.4% 2.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,496 11.6% -2.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,825 14.2% -7.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,484 19.3% -0.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 778 6% 10.8%
Built in 2020 or later 134 1% 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.

Washburn County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,566 occupied housing units in Washburn County, 82.2% are owner-occupied, while 17.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 41.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,566
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,348
Owner occupied
6,218
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,348 17.8% -6.3%
Owner occupied 6,218 82.2% 2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
41.1%
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.

Washburn County housing costs

Housing costs in Washburn County come to a median of $872 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $795.

Median housing costs per month
$872/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 Washburn County
$795/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 Washburn County

Washburn County education at a glance

About 42.3% of the population in Washburn County went to high school, while 19.7% pursued college studies. Another 11.8% earned an associate degree and 17.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 228 1.6% -6.9%
High school diploma 5,849 42.3% 1.7%
College diploma 2,725 19.7% -8.1%
Associate degree 1,634 11.8% 0.0%
Bachelor's degree 2,412 17.4% 8.1%
Graduate degree 971 7% 14.4%
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 Washburn County

How much people earn in Washburn County

The average annual household income in Washburn County was $85,270 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,441, reflecting a +3.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Washburn County
$85,270/year
6.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Washburn County
$63,441/year
3.5% year-over-year change

Washburn County income by age

In Washburn County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,550. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,132 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,661, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,290 in earnings. Overall, 88.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,661 25.6%
25 - 44 $77,550 4.2%
45 - 64 $71,132 5.2%
Over 65 $54,290 4.0%
Above poverty level
14,648
Below poverty level
1,917
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,648 88.4% 0.9%
Below poverty level 1,917 11.6% -0.3%

Employment in Washburn County

Workforce and job types in Washburn County

The job market in Washburn County is powered by 7,356 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.2% run their own businesses, 62.2% are employed by private companies, and 13.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,356
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
5,160
Blue collar
2,196
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,160 70.2% 1.6%
Blue collar 2,196 29.8% -3.4%
Employer type
Self employees
13.2%
Private companies
62.2%
Governmental workers
13.7%
Not for profit companies
10.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 974 13.2% 7.4%
Private companies 4,574 62.2% -1.8%
Governmental workers 1,007 13.7% 1.8%
Not for profit companies 801 10.9% 0.2%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
1.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Washburn County stands at 3.9%, 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 Washburn County

How people get around in Washburn County

Commuting methods vary: 84.4% 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 6,049 84.4% -1.2%
Bus or trolleybus 18 0.2% 28.6%
Ferryboat 4 0.1% 0.0%
Motorcycle 3 0% 50.0%
Bicycle 22 0.3% 4.8%
Walk 108 1.5% 5.9%
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 Washburn County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54859 2,242 1,092 $55,882 $81,825
54870 1,698 783 $67,063 $92,047
54871 3,270 1,302 $69,342 $94,092
54875 1,335 607 $57,022 $76,655
54876 1,712 782 $72,794 $95,879
54888 1,381 652 $63,971 $85,691
54801 6,266 2,863 $62,625 $83,525
54813 678 259 $71,193 $75,205
54817 2,264 1,057 $83,036 $95,687

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FAQs about Washburn County demographics 

What is the total population of Washburn County?

Washburn County has a total population of 16,854 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Washburn County?

The gender ratio in Washburn County is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (8,493 residents)
  • 49.6% females (8,361 residents)

What is the median age in Washburn County?

The median age in Washburn County is 52.7.

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

The age distribution in Washburn County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.3% (2,409 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.7% (1,638 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 17.8% (3,006 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30.1% (5,067 residents)
  • Over 65: 28.1% (4,734 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Washburn County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Washburn County is as follows:
  • White: 93% (15,666 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (45 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (170 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (78 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (3 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (773 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (119 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.9% of the population in Washburn County.

How many housing units are there in Washburn County?

There are 12,853 housing units in Washburn County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Washburn County has a total of 7,566 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Washburn County?

Washburn County has a median household income of $63,441, representing a +3.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.1% in Washburn County, with a workforce of 7,356 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.2% (5,160 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.8% (2,196 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.2% (974 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.2% (4,574 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.7% (1,007 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.9% (801 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