Aitkin County, Minnesota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Aitkin County is located in Minnesota with a total population of 15,930. It is the 53rd most populous county out of 87 in Minnesota. The county encompasses 6 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Aitkin County is 56.5 years. This is 46% higher than the state median of 38.6 years. 14.5% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Aitkin County is $59,498. This is 32% lower than the state median of $87,556. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 24% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.3%. This is 34% higher than the state poverty rate of 9.2%. The unemployment rate is 5.8%. This is 48% higher than the state rate of 3.9%. The median home value is $235,100. Housing costs are 23% lower than the state median of $305,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.0x. 85.3% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 18% higher than the state average of 72.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

Aitkin County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 92.8% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.5%. The Black or African American population (0.7%) is well below the state average of 6.7%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.5%) is well below the state average of 6.2%. The Asian population (0.1%) is well below the state average of 5.0%.

Education

18.9% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 51% lower than the state rate of 38.8%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 93.6%.