Alpena County, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
28,880
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,950/yr
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,707
0.2% year-over-year change

Alpena County population

How many people live in Alpena County

Alpena County is home to 28,880 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Alpena County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
28,880
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
14,412
Female
50.1%
14,468
Value Percent YoY change
Male 14,412 49.9% -0.1%
Female 14,468 50.1% -0.1%
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 Alpena County is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.8% are children under 15, then 10% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.4% of the population, while another 27.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.8%
15 to 24
10%
25 to 44
22.4%
45 to 64
27.6%
Over 65
25.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,279 14.8% -2.4%
15 to 24 2,899 10% -1.3%
25 to 44 6,465 22.4% 1.6%
45 to 64 7,972 27.6% -2.2%
Over 65 7,265 25.2% 2.7%
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 Alpena County, 98.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 28,402 98.3% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 307 1.1% -3.8%
Non-citizens 171 0.6% 0.6%
Racial breakdown
White
92.6%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.5%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 26,743 92.6%
Black or African American 291 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 25 0.1%
Asian 53 0.2%
Two or more races 1,600 5.5%
Other 168 0.6%

Households in Alpena County

A peek inside Alpena County households

Alpena County has 13,019 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.9% are families, while the remaining 42.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,019
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,481
Family households
7,538
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,481 42.1% 5.3%
Family households 7,538 57.9% 0.1%
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 Alpena County

The housing landscape of Alpena County

Alpena County's housing consists of 15,707 units, with 80.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1% 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 4.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,707
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,590 80.2%
1 unit, attached 163 1%
2 units 425 2.7%
3 or 4 units 702 4.5%
5 to 9 units 275 1.8%
10 to 19 units 188 1.2%
20 to 49 units 308 2%
50 or more units 232 1.5%
Mobile home 774 4.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 50 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
38
58.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Alpena County

In Alpena County, the median construction year is 1968. About 15.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,444 15.6% 0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,222 7.8% -5.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,391 15.2% 2.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,263 14.4% 0.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,011 19.2% -3.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,403 8.9% 8.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,344 8.6% -8.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,142 7.3% 3.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 449 2.9% 25.8%
Built in 2020 or later 38 0.2% 58.3%
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.

Alpena County occupancy rates

Out of the 13,019 occupied housing units in Alpena County, 80% are owner-occupied, while 20% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,019
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,604
Owner occupied
10,415
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,604 20% -0.6%
Owner occupied 10,415 80% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
17.1%
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.

Alpena County housing costs

Housing costs in Alpena County come to a median of $694 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $673.

Median housing costs per month
$694/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 Alpena County
$673/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 Alpena County

Alpena County education at a glance

About 40.8% of the population in Alpena County went to high school, while 25.2% pursued college studies. Another 14.1% earned an associate degree and 10.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 595 2.5% 10.4%
High school diploma 9,618 40.8% -2.0%
College diploma 5,938 25.2% 1.6%
Associate degree 3,314 14.1% -0.1%
Bachelor's degree 2,571 10.9% 1.8%
Graduate degree 1,511 6.4% 6.2%
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 Alpena County

How much people earn in Alpena County

The average annual household income in Alpena County was $74,418 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $53,950, reflecting a +3.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Alpena County
$74,418/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Alpena County
$53,950/year
3.9% year-over-year change

Alpena County income by age

In Alpena County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $67,089. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $65,496 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,539, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,177 in earnings. Overall, 82.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,539 -7.0%
25 - 44 $67,089 3.7%
45 - 64 $65,496 10.5%
Over 65 $44,177 -0.0%
Above poverty level
23,021
Below poverty level
5,023
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 23,021 82.1% -1.4%
Below poverty level 5,023 17.9% 5.4%

Employment in Alpena County

Workforce and job types in Alpena County

The job market in Alpena County is powered by 12,210 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.4% run their own businesses, 68.6% are employed by private companies, and 10.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,210
2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
8,913
Blue collar
3,297
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,913 73% 1.6%
Blue collar 3,297 27% 3.0%
Employer type
Self employees
10.4%
Private companies
68.6%
Governmental workers
10.7%
Not for profit companies
10.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,273 10.4% 6.8%
Private companies 8,376 68.6% 2.1%
Governmental workers 1,308 10.7% 4.9%
Not for profit companies 1,253 10.3% -5.7%
Unemployment rate
6.2%
-12.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Alpena County stands at 6.2%, 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 Alpena County

How people get around in Alpena County

In Alpena County, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
-0.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,088 84.5% 1.1%
Taxicab 21 0.2% 10.5%
Bus or trolleybus 126 1.1% 40.0%
Motorcycle 68 0.6% 17.2%
Bicycle 66 0.6% -36.5%
Walk 268 2.2% 15.5%
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 Alpena County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48762 930 480 $73,421 $84,920
49707 21,881 10,231 $51,396 $71,712
49744 934 336 $77,500 $81,446
49746 3,284 1,595 $47,432 $61,062
49747 2,177 915 $73,233 $89,499
49753 1,706 767 $57,292 $83,888
49766 2,565 1,064 $61,346 $90,434
49776 1,866 834 $59,000 $70,202

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FAQs about Alpena County demographics 

What is the total population of Alpena County?

Alpena County has a total population of 28,880 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Alpena County?

The gender ratio in Alpena County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (14,412 residents)
  • 50.1% females (14,468 residents)

What is the median age in Alpena County?

The median age in Alpena County is 47.8.

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

The age distribution in Alpena County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.8% (4,279 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10% (2,899 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.4% (6,465 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.6% (7,972 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.2% (7,265 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Alpena County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Alpena County is as follows:
  • White: 92.6% (26,743 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (291 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (25 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (53 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.5% (1,600 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (168 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.3% of the population in Alpena County.

How many housing units are there in Alpena County?

There are 15,707 housing units in Alpena County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Alpena County has a total of 13,019 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Alpena County?

Alpena County has a median household income of $53,950, representing a +3.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.8% in Alpena County, with a workforce of 12,210 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73% (8,913 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27% (3,297 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.4% (1,273 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.6% (8,376 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.7% (1,308 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.3% (1,253 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