Washburn County, Wisconsin Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Washburn County is located in Wisconsin with a total population of 16,749. It is the 59th most populous county out of 72 in Wisconsin. The county encompasses 4 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Washburn County is 52.4 years. This is 31% higher than the state median of 40.1 years. 10.4% 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 Washburn County is $61,270. This is 19% lower than the state median of $75,670. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 22% lower. The poverty rate stands at 11.7%. This is 11% higher than the state poverty rate of 10.6%. The unemployment rate is 3.9%. This is 18% higher than the state rate of 3.3%. The median home value is $207,900. Housing costs are 16% lower than the state median of $247,400. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.4x. 80.9% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 19% higher than the state average of 67.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

Washburn County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 92.8% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.0%. The Black or African American population (0.2%) 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

23.5% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 28% lower 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 93.7%.