Bayfield County, Wisconsin Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Bayfield County is located in Wisconsin with a total population of 16,410. It is the 61st most populous county out of 72 in Wisconsin. The county encompasses 4 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Bayfield County is 54.1 years. This is 35% higher than the state median of 40.1 years. 10.9% 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 Bayfield County is $69,609. This is 8% lower than the state median of $75,670. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 11% lower. The poverty rate stands at 8.9%. This is 15% lower than the state poverty rate of 10.6%. The unemployment rate is 3.6%. This is 8% higher than the state rate of 3.3%. The median home value is $228,100. Housing costs are 8% lower than the state median of $247,400. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x. 84.5% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 25% higher than the state average of 67.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Bayfield County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 84.0% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.0%. The Black or African American population (0.6%) is well below the state average of 6.0%. The Hispanic or Latino population (2.0%) is well below the state average of 7.8%. The Asian population (0.5%) is well below the state average of 2.9%.

Education

35.0% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 7% higher than the state rate of 32.8%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 96.2%.