Waunakee, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
15,687
5.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$125,220/yr
-2.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,091
7.6% year-over-year change

Waunakee population

How many people live in Waunakee

Waunakee is home to 15,687 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Waunakee locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
15,687
5.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
7,814
Female
50.2%
7,873
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,814 49.8% 0.7%
Female 7,873 50.2% 9.8%
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 Waunakee is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.7% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.3% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.7%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
27.3%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
14.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,407 21.7% 6.9%
15 to 24 1,774 11.3% -6.7%
25 to 44 4,284 27.3% 13.8%
45 to 64 3,930 25% -2.3%
Over 65 2,292 14.6% 11.5%
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 Waunakee, 94.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1.5% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.8%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 14,780 94.2% 3.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 437 2.8% -0.5%
Non-citizens 470 3% 86.5%
Racial breakdown
White
86.4%
Black or African American
1.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
1.3%
Two or more races
8.7%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 13,553 86.4%
Black or African American 233 1.5%
Asian 244 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 209 1.3%
Two or more races 1,359 8.7%
Other 89 0.6%

Households in Waunakee

A peek inside Waunakee households

Waunakee has 5,844 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 77.8% are families, while the remaining 22.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,844
6.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,297
Family households
4,547
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,297 22.2% 5.0%
Family households 4,547 77.8% 7.3%
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 Waunakee

The housing landscape of Waunakee

Waunakee's housing consists of 6,091 units, with 65.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
6,091
7.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,986 65.4%
1 unit, attached 572 9.4%
2 units 223 3.7%
3 or 4 units 88 1.4%
5 to 9 units 186 3%
10 to 19 units 309 5.1%
20 to 49 units 353 5.8%
50 or more units 374 6.1%
Homes built since 2020
193
183.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Waunakee

In Waunakee, the median construction year is 1998. About 2.7% 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, 20.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 21% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 164 2.7% -11.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 39 0.6% 50.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 251 4.1% 41.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 227 3.7% -16.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 521 8.6% -0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 770 12.6% 14.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,411 23.2% 1.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,234 20.3% -10.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,281 21% 33.3%
Built in 2020 or later 193 3.2% 183.8%
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.

Waunakee occupancy rates

Out of the 5,844 occupied housing units in Waunakee, 77.4% are owner-occupied, while 22.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,844
6.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,321
Owner occupied
4,523
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,321 22.6% 4.5%
Owner occupied 4,523 77.4% 7.5%
Unoccupied housing units
4.1%
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.

Waunakee housing costs

Housing costs in Waunakee come to a median of $1,873 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,324.

Median housing costs per month
$1,873/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 Waunakee
$1,324/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 Waunakee

Waunakee education at a glance

About 16.7% of the population in Waunakee went to high school, while 15.4% pursued college studies. Another 6.7% earned an associate degree and 39.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 21.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 67 0.6% 737.5%
High school diploma 1,874 16.7% 5.6%
College diploma 1,724 15.4% 8.1%
Associate degree 746 6.7% -25.2%
Bachelor's degree 4,401 39.3% 10.2%
Graduate degree 2,391 21.3% 9.1%
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 Waunakee

How much people earn in Waunakee

The average annual household income in Waunakee was $168,219 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $125,220, reflecting a -2.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Waunakee
$168,219/year
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Waunakee
$125,220/year
-2.7% year-over-year change

Waunakee income by age

In Waunakee, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $148,546. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $176,406 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $91,688, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,224 in earnings. Overall, 97.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $91,688 2.6%
25 - 44 $148,546 -13.0%
45 - 64 $176,406 6.0%
Over 65 $66,224 3.0%
Above poverty level
15,078
Below poverty level
428
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,078 97.2% 6.3%
Below poverty level 428 2.8% -21.8%

Average renter income in Waunakee

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Waunakee, their median household income was $58,542 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$58,542
Rent-to-income ratio
27.1%
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 Waunakee

Workforce and job types in Waunakee

The job market in Waunakee is powered by 8,323 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 90.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 9.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 66.5% are employed by private companies, and 15.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,323
8.1% year-over-year change
White collar
7,531
Blue collar
792
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,531 90.5% 10.4%
Blue collar 792 9.5% -10.1%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
66.5%
Governmental workers
15.5%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 728 8.8% 68.1%
Private companies 5,538 66.5% 2.8%
Governmental workers 1,292 15.5% 10.9%
Not for profit companies 765 9.2% 6.2%
Unemployment rate
1.4%
6.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Waunakee stands at 1.4%, 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 Waunakee

How people get around in Waunakee

In Waunakee, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 73.1% 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.

Commute time
22 min
0.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,034 73.1% 0.7%
Motorcycle 10 0.1% 25.0%
Bicycle 25 0.3% -13.8%
Walk 123 1.5% -20.6%
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 Waunakee by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53597 21,426 8,460 $117,000 $160,066

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FAQs about Waunakee demographics 

What is the total population of Waunakee?

Waunakee has a total population of 15,687 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 +5.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Waunakee?

The gender ratio in Waunakee is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (7,814 residents)
  • 50.2% females (7,873 residents)

What is the median age in Waunakee?

The median age in Waunakee is 39.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Waunakee?

The age distribution in Waunakee is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.7% (3,407 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (1,774 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.3% (4,284 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (3,930 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.6% (2,292 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Waunakee?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Waunakee is as follows:
  • White: 86.4% (13,553 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.5% (233 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (244 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 1.3% (209 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.7% (1,359 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (89 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.2% of the population in Waunakee.

How many housing units are there in Waunakee?

There are 6,091 housing units in Waunakee, reflecting a +7.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Waunakee has a total of 5,844 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Waunakee?

Waunakee has a median household income of $125,220, representing a -2.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 98.6% in Waunakee, with a workforce of 8,323 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 90.5% (7,531 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 9.5% (792 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (728 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.5% (5,538 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.5% (1,292 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (765 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