Emmet County, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
9,262
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,730/yr
-2.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,520
0.1% year-over-year change

Emmet County population

How many people live in Emmet County

Emmet County is home to 9,262 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.1% of Emmet County locals are male, and 48.9% are female.

Total population
9,262
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.1%
4,729
Female
48.9%
4,533
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,729 51.1% 1.0%
Female 4,533 48.9% -2.2%
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 Emmet County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.6% are children under 15, then 14.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.3% of the population, while another 24.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.6%
15 to 24
14.7%
25 to 44
22.3%
45 to 64
24.3%
Over 65
24.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,348 14.6% -7.0%
15 to 24 1,365 14.7% 7.2%
25 to 44 2,066 22.3% 2.0%
45 to 64 2,253 24.3% -5.1%
Over 65 2,230 24.1% 1.7%
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 Emmet County, 95.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.1% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,870 95.8% 0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 236 2.6% -26.9%
Non-citizens 156 1.7% -23.9%
Racial breakdown
White
87.1%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.8%
Other
3%
Value Percent
White 8,070 87.1%
Black or African American 152 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 6 0.1%
Asian 21 0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 5 0%
Two or more races 726 7.8%
Other 282 3%

Households in Emmet County

A peek inside Emmet County households

Emmet County has 4,063 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.8% are families, while the remaining 44.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,063
3.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,796
Family households
2,267
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,796 44.2% 5.1%
Family households 2,267 55.8% 2.4%
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 Emmet County

The housing landscape of Emmet County

Emmet County's housing consists of 4,520 units, with 83.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% 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 3.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,520
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,768 83.4%
1 unit, attached 40 0.9%
2 units 95 2.1%
3 or 4 units 132 2.9%
5 to 9 units 161 3.6%
10 to 19 units 78 1.7%
20 to 49 units 82 1.8%
50 or more units 20 0.4%
Mobile home 144 3.2%
Homes built since 2020
23
475.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Emmet County

In Emmet County, the median construction year is 1955. About 33.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,518 33.6% 1.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 343 7.6% -3.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 774 17.1% -5.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 651 14.4% 20.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 670 14.8% -3.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 133 2.9% 18.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 82 1.8% -34.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 165 3.6% -33.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 161 3.6% 47.7%
Built in 2020 or later 23 0.5% 475.0%
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.

Emmet County occupancy rates

Out of the 4,063 occupied housing units in Emmet County, 79.4% are owner-occupied, while 20.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,063
3.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
837
Owner occupied
3,226
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 837 20.6% -4.1%
Owner occupied 3,226 79.4% 5.8%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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.

Emmet County housing costs

Housing costs in Emmet County come to a median of $781 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $733.

Median housing costs per month
$781/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 Emmet County
$733/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 Emmet County

Emmet County education at a glance

About 42.4% of the population in Emmet County went to high school, while 23.1% pursued college studies. Another 16.2% earned an associate degree and 11.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 225 3% -1.3%
High school diploma 3,177 42.4% 0.8%
College diploma 1,733 23.1% -4.0%
Associate degree 1,214 16.2% 2.1%
Bachelor's degree 847 11.3% 2.2%
Graduate degree 300 4% 1.7%
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 Emmet County

How much people earn in Emmet County

The average annual household income in Emmet County was $77,279 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,730, reflecting a -2.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Emmet County
$77,279/year
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Emmet County
$63,730/year
-2.2% year-over-year change

Emmet County income by age

In Emmet County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,743. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,216 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $66,944, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,074 in earnings. Overall, 90.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $66,944 -12.8%
25 - 44 $76,743 4.4%
45 - 64 $71,216 -2.2%
Over 65 $46,074 6.6%
Above poverty level
7,775
Below poverty level
836
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,775 90.3% 0.7%
Below poverty level 836 9.7% -4.3%

Employment in Emmet County

Workforce and job types in Emmet County

The job market in Emmet County is powered by 4,998 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.6% run their own businesses, 69.2% are employed by private companies, and 10.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,998
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
3,199
Blue collar
1,799
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,199 64% 0.8%
Blue collar 1,799 36% 0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
11.6%
Private companies
69.2%
Governmental workers
10.6%
Not for profit companies
8.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 581 11.6% 4.7%
Private companies 3,459 69.2% 0.3%
Governmental workers 530 10.6% -7.5%
Not for profit companies 428 8.6% 8.9%
Unemployment rate
1.7%
-14.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Emmet County stands at 1.7%, 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 Emmet County

How people get around in Emmet County

In Emmet County, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
-3.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,355 87.3% 3.3%
Walk 209 4.2% -25.9%
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 Emmet County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50514 1,117 538 $73,000 $82,143
50531 325 145 $93,036 $94,494
50578 633 277 $71,645 $90,147
51334 6,960 3,017 $57,482 $74,294
51342 1,385 601 $84,866 $88,165
51364 803 320 $66,875 $118,276
51365 416 158 $71,667 $92,656

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FAQs about Emmet County demographics 

What is the total population of Emmet County?

Emmet County has a total population of 9,262 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Emmet County?

The gender ratio in Emmet County is as follows:
  • 51.1% males (4,729 residents)
  • 48.9% females (4,533 residents)

What is the median age in Emmet County?

The median age in Emmet County is 42.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Emmet County?

The age distribution in Emmet County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.6% (1,348 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.7% (1,365 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.3% (2,066 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.3% (2,253 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.1% (2,230 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Emmet County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Emmet County is as follows:
  • White: 87.1% (8,070 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (152 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (6 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (21 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (5 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.8% (726 residents)
  • Other: 3% (282 residents)

What percentage of the population in Emmet County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.8% of the population in Emmet County.

How many housing units are there in Emmet County?

There are 4,520 housing units in Emmet County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Emmet County and what is the average household size?

Emmet County has a total of 4,063 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Emmet County?

Emmet County has a median household income of $63,730, representing a -2.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Emmet County?

The employment rate is 98.3% in Emmet County, with a workforce of 4,998 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64% (3,199 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36% (1,799 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.6% (581 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.2% (3,459 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.6% (530 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.6% (428 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