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

Total population
18,722
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,253/yr
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,131
-1.2% year-over-year change

Wisconsin Rapids population

How many people live in Wisconsin Rapids

Wisconsin Rapids is home to 18,722 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.4% of Wisconsin Rapids locals are male, and 52.6% are female.

Total population
18,722
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.4%
8,882
Female
52.6%
9,840
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,882 47.4% 2.9%
Female 9,840 52.6% -2.8%
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 Rapids is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.4% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.1% of the population, while another 22.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.4%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
25.1%
45 to 64
22.8%
Over 65
19.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,640 19.4% 7.3%
15 to 24 2,437 13% -8.2%
25 to 44 4,700 25.1% 0.5%
45 to 64 4,270 22.8% -3.1%
Over 65 3,675 19.6% 1.3%
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 Rapids, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 2.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,280 97.6% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 311 1.7% -7.2%
Non-citizens 131 0.7% -26.0%
Racial breakdown
White
90.1%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.9%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 16,869 90.1%
Black or African American 159 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 51 0.3%
Asian 438 2.3%
Two or more races 910 4.9%
Other 295 1.6%

Households in Wisconsin Rapids

A peek inside Wisconsin Rapids households

Wisconsin Rapids has 8,392 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.1% are families, while the remaining 46.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,392
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,937
Family households
4,455
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,937 46.9% -0.7%
Family households 4,455 53.1% 1.1%
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 Wisconsin Rapids

The housing landscape of Wisconsin Rapids

Wisconsin Rapids's housing consists of 9,131 units, with 62.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.1% 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 2.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,131
-1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,698 62.4%
1 unit, attached 561 6.1%
2 units 618 6.8%
3 or 4 units 180 2%
5 to 9 units 430 4.7%
10 to 19 units 538 5.9%
20 to 49 units 474 5.2%
50 or more units 409 4.5%
Mobile home 223 2.4%
Homes built since 2020
22
4.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wisconsin Rapids

In Wisconsin Rapids, the median construction year is 1964. About 18.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,694 18.6% -0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 804 8.8% -15.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,535 16.8% 2.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,201 13.2% 21.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,368 15% -9.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 469 5.1% 24.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 627 6.9% -13.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 904 9.9% -2.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 507 5.6% -5.6%
Built in 2020 or later 22 0.2% 4.8%
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.

Wisconsin Rapids occupancy rates

Out of the 8,392 occupied housing units in Wisconsin Rapids, 56.1% are owner-occupied, while 43.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,392
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,683
Owner occupied
4,709
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,683 43.9% 0.9%
Owner occupied 4,709 56.1% -0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
8.1%
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.

Wisconsin Rapids housing costs

Housing costs in Wisconsin Rapids come to a median of $867 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $888.

Median housing costs per month
$867/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 Rapids
$888/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 Rapids

Wisconsin Rapids education at a glance

About 43.5% of the population in Wisconsin Rapids went to high school, while 23.7% pursued college studies. Another 13.2% earned an associate degree and 14.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 260 1.8% -20.2%
High school diploma 6,242 43.5% -6.6%
College diploma 3,397 23.7% 4.0%
Associate degree 1,902 13.2% -0.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,054 14.3% 12.3%
Graduate degree 495 3.4% -12.8%
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 Rapids

How much people earn in Wisconsin Rapids

The average annual household income in Wisconsin Rapids was $70,053 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,253, reflecting a +2.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wisconsin Rapids
$70,053/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wisconsin Rapids
$55,253/year
2.1% year-over-year change

Wisconsin Rapids income by age

In Wisconsin Rapids, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,417. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $62,948 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $55,795, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,026 in earnings. Overall, 85.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $55,795 -2.7%
25 - 44 $65,417 5.9%
45 - 64 $62,948 -1.4%
Over 65 $45,026 5.0%
Above poverty level
15,538
Below poverty level
2,729
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,538 85.1% -0.8%
Below poverty level 2,729 14.9% 2.4%

Average renter income in Wisconsin Rapids

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Wisconsin Rapids, their median household income was $38,055 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 28%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$38,055
Rent-to-income ratio
28%
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 Rapids

Workforce and job types in Wisconsin Rapids

The job market in Wisconsin Rapids is powered by 8,736 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 76.3% are employed by private companies, and 9.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,736
-1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
6,106
Blue collar
2,630
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,106 69.9% 0.7%
Blue collar 2,630 30.1% -7.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
76.3%
Governmental workers
9.1%
Not for profit companies
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 642 7.4% 22.8%
Private companies 6,666 76.3% -2.8%
Governmental workers 792 9.1% 6.7%
Not for profit companies 636 7.3% -17.5%
Unemployment rate
6.6%
-10.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wisconsin Rapids stands at 6.6%, 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 Rapids

How people get around in Wisconsin Rapids

Commuting methods vary: 87.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% 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 7,530 87.9% -2.5%
Taxicab 19 0.2% -32.1%
Bus or trolleybus 16 0.2% -23.8%
Bicycle 76 0.9% -20.8%
Walk 161 1.9% 2.5%
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 Rapids by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54494 27,696 12,029 $72,595 $90,571
54495 7,859 3,385 $49,798 $66,084

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FAQs about Wisconsin Rapids demographics 

What is the total population of Wisconsin Rapids?

Wisconsin Rapids has a total population of 18,722 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wisconsin Rapids?

The gender ratio in Wisconsin Rapids is as follows:
  • 47.4% males (8,882 residents)
  • 52.6% females (9,840 residents)

What is the median age in Wisconsin Rapids?

The median age in Wisconsin Rapids is 38.3.

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

The age distribution in Wisconsin Rapids is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.4% (3,640 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (2,437 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.1% (4,700 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.8% (4,270 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.6% (3,675 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wisconsin Rapids?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wisconsin Rapids is as follows:
  • White: 90.1% (16,869 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (159 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (51 residents)
  • Asian: 2.3% (438 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.9% (910 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (295 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in Wisconsin Rapids.

How many housing units are there in Wisconsin Rapids?

There are 9,131 housing units in Wisconsin Rapids, reflecting a -1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wisconsin Rapids has a total of 8,392 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wisconsin Rapids?

Wisconsin Rapids has a median household income of $55,253, representing a +2.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.4% in Wisconsin Rapids, with a workforce of 8,736 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.9% (6,106 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.1% (2,630 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (642 residents)
  • Private companies: 76.3% (6,666 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.1% (792 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.3% (636 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