Waupaca Demographics: A Comprehensive Population Analysis
Waupaca has experienced a steady trajectory of growth and evolution over the last century. From its early days in the late 19th century to the modern era, the city's demographic shifts reflect broader trends in urbanization, aging, and household structure. By analyzing the U.S. Decennial Census data, we can gain a clear picture of how this community has transformed.
Key Facts
- Current Population: 6,282 residents as of the 2020 Census.
- Population Density: 793.2 inhabitants per square mile.
- Median Age: 41.4 years.
- Urbanization: 94.3% of residents live in urban areas.
- Housing: 3,066 total housing units with an 8.3% vacancy rate.
- Racial Composition: Predominantly White (91.3% in 2020).
Population Growth Trends (1880–2020)
Waupaca's population has grown significantly since 1880. Starting with 1,392 residents, the city saw a rapid increase toward the turn of the century, reaching 2,912 by 1900. While there was a slight dip in 1910, the general trend has been upward, crossing the 5,000-resident threshold by the year 2000.
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| Census Year | Population | Percentage Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1880 | 1,392 | — |
| 1900 | 2,912 | 36.9% |
| 1940 | 3,458 | 10.4% |
| 1980 | 4,472 | 3.0% |
| 2000 | 5,676 | 14.5% |
| 2020 | 6,282 | 3.5% |
Detailed 2020 Census Analysis
The 2020 Census provides a detailed snapshot of the city's current social fabric. With a population of 6,282, the city maintains a population density of 793.2 inhabitants per square mile. The gender ratio shows a slight female majority, with 94.7 males for every 100 females.
Age and Gender Distribution
The median age has risen to 41.4 years. The population is split between younger and older generations, with 20.4% of residents under the age of 18 and 22.8% aged 65 or older. Among adults (18 and over), the gender ratio is 91.8 males for every 100 females.
Household and Housing Dynamics
There are 2,813 households in Waupaca, with 23.6% including children under 18. Household structures are diverse: 34.3% are married-couple households, while 23.5% are headed by a male with no spouse/partner, and 33.3% are headed by a female with no spouse/partner. Notably, 42.4% of households consist of individuals, and 19.6% are seniors aged 65 or older living alone.
Regarding infrastructure, there are 3,066 housing units. The overall vacancy rate stands at 8.3%, though this varies significantly between homeowners (1.6% vacancy) and rental properties (7.9% vacancy).
Racial and Ethnic Composition
Waupaca remains a predominantly White community, though diversity has shifted slightly over the decades. In 2020, the racial breakdown was as follows:
- White: 91.3% (5,734 residents)
- Two or more races: 4.6% (292 residents)
- Hispanic or Latino (of any race): 4.0% (250 residents)
- Some other race: 1.4% (87 residents)
- Black or African American: 1.1% (67 residents)
- Asian: 1.0% (64 residents)
- American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (35 residents)
- Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.0% (3 residents)
Historical Economic Context (2000 Census)
Data from the 2000 Census offers insight into the city's economic baseline at the start of the millennium. At that time, the median household income was $31,095, and the median family income was $45,128. A gender pay gap was evident, with males earning a median income of $32,488 compared to $21,651 for females.
The per capita income was $18,890. During this period, 10.5% of the population lived below the poverty line, including 12.9% of children under 18 and 12.0% of seniors aged 65 or over.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current population of Waupaca?
As of the 2020 Census, the population of Waupaca is 6,282 people.
What is the median age of residents in Waupaca?
The median age was 41.4 years according to the 2020 Census data.
How many people in Waupaca live in rural areas?
Only 5.7% of residents live in rural areas, while the vast majority (94.3%) reside in urban areas.
What is the racial makeup of the city?
The city is predominantly White (91.3% in 2020), with the next largest groups being those of two or more races (4.6%) and Hispanic or Latino residents (4.0%).
What was the poverty rate in 2000?
In 2000, approximately 10.5% of the population and 7.1% of families were living below the poverty line.