Wisconsin Dells, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,547
-7.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,688/yr
-18.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,478
-2.6% year-over-year change

Wisconsin Dells population

How many people live in Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is home to 2,547 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.2% of Wisconsin Dells locals are male, and 52.8% are female.

Total population
2,547
-7.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.2%
1,201
Female
52.8%
1,346
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,201 47.2% -2.8%
Female 1,346 52.8% -11.8%
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 Wisconsin Dells is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.9% are children under 15, then 10.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.9%
15 to 24
10.7%
25 to 44
25%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
21.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 406 15.9% -20.1%
15 to 24 272 10.7% -14.5%
25 to 44 637 25% -5.2%
45 to 64 677 26.6% -4.7%
Over 65 555 21.8% 0.0%
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 Wisconsin Dells, 90.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.1% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.7%
Non-citizens
5.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,296 90.2% -8.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 120 4.7% 26.3%
Non-citizens 131 5.1% -21.1%
Racial breakdown
White
81.9%
Black or African American
3.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.8%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7%
Other
5.5%
Value Percent
White 2,087 81.9%
Black or African American 95 3.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 47 1.8%
Two or more races 177 7%
Other 141 5.5%

Households in Wisconsin Dells

A peek inside Wisconsin Dells households

Wisconsin Dells has 1,212 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.1% are families, while the remaining 53.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,212
-5.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
653
Family households
559
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 653 53.9% 2.7%
Family households 559 46.1% -12.9%
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 Wisconsin Dells

The housing landscape of Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells's housing consists of 1,478 units, with 54.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2% 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 1.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,478
-2.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 804 54.4%
1 unit, attached 29 2%
2 units 101 6.8%
3 or 4 units 135 9.1%
5 to 9 units 162 11%
10 to 19 units 14 1%
20 to 49 units 93 6.3%
50 or more units 82 5.6%
Mobile home 26 1.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 32 2.2%
Homes built since 2020
100
23.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wisconsin Dells

In Wisconsin Dells, the median construction year is 1972. About 16.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 6.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 240 16.2% -18.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 53 3.6% -25.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 257 17.4% -17.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 125 8.5% 52.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 275 18.6% -10.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 37 2.5% -69.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 259 17.5% 194.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 86 5.8% -24.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 46 3.1% 7.0%
Built in 2020 or later 100 6.8% 23.5%
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.

Wisconsin Dells occupancy rates

Out of the 1,212 occupied housing units in Wisconsin Dells, 54% are owner-occupied, while 46% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,212
-5.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
557
Owner occupied
655
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 557 46% 17.3%
Owner occupied 655 54% -18.4%
Unoccupied housing units
18.0%
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.

Wisconsin Dells housing costs

Housing costs in Wisconsin Dells come to a median of $970 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $971.

Median housing costs per month
$970/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 Wisconsin Dells
$971/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 Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells education at a glance

About 42.9% of the population in Wisconsin Dells went to high school, while 22.8% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 15.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 8 0.4% -75.0%
High school diploma 890 42.9% 13.5%
College diploma 474 22.8% -7.4%
Associate degree 227 11% -25.3%
Bachelor's degree 329 15.9% 1.9%
Graduate degree 146 7% -12.6%
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 Wisconsin Dells

How much people earn in Wisconsin Dells

The average annual household income in Wisconsin Dells was $75,433 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -6.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,688, reflecting a -18.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wisconsin Dells
$75,433/year
-6.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wisconsin Dells
$54,688/year
-18.2% year-over-year change

Wisconsin Dells income by age

In Wisconsin Dells, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $67,024. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,038 overall. Overall, 88.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $67,024 -17.7%
45 - 64 $66,038 -3.7%
Over 65 $44,091 17.6%
Above poverty level
2,214
Below poverty level
282
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,214 88.7% -9.7%
Below poverty level 282 11.3% 17.5%

Average renter income in Wisconsin Dells

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Wisconsin Dells, their median household income was $53,438 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 21.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$53,438
Rent-to-income ratio
21.8%
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 Wisconsin Dells

Workforce and job types in Wisconsin Dells

The job market in Wisconsin Dells is powered by 1,072 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.8% run their own businesses, 58.9% are employed by private companies, and 21.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,072
-17.0% year-over-year change
White collar
777
Blue collar
295
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 777 72.5% -21.3%
Blue collar 295 27.5% -3.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7.8%
Private companies
58.9%
Governmental workers
21.6%
Not for profit companies
11.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 84 7.8% -53.3%
Private companies 631 58.9% -5.4%
Governmental workers 231 21.6% -10.1%
Not for profit companies 126 11.8% -32.6%
Unemployment rate
15.5%
36.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wisconsin Dells stands at 15.5%, 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 Wisconsin Dells

How people get around in Wisconsin Dells

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 987 92% -13.0%
Bus or trolleybus 32 3% 23.1%
Bicycle 19 1.8% 90.0%
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 Wisconsin Dells by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
53965 10,818 4,826 $66,667 $84,750

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FAQs about Wisconsin Dells demographics 

What is the total population of Wisconsin Dells?

Wisconsin Dells has a total population of 2,547 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 -7.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wisconsin Dells?

The gender ratio in Wisconsin Dells is as follows:
  • 47.2% males (1,201 residents)
  • 52.8% females (1,346 residents)

What is the median age in Wisconsin Dells?

The median age in Wisconsin Dells is 42.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Wisconsin Dells?

The age distribution in Wisconsin Dells is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.9% (406 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.7% (272 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25% (637 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (677 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.8% (555 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wisconsin Dells?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wisconsin Dells is as follows:
  • White: 81.9% (2,087 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.7% (95 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.8% (47 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7% (177 residents)
  • Other: 5.5% (141 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.2% of the population in Wisconsin Dells.

How many housing units are there in Wisconsin Dells?

There are 1,478 housing units in Wisconsin Dells, reflecting a -2.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wisconsin Dells has a total of 1,212 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wisconsin Dells?

Wisconsin Dells has a median household income of $54,688, representing a -18.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Wisconsin Dells?

The employment rate is 84.5% in Wisconsin Dells, with a workforce of 1,072 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.5% (777 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.5% (295 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.8% (84 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.9% (631 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.6% (231 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.8% (126 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