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

Total population
15,077
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,811/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,554
0.2% year-over-year change

Arenac County population

How many people live in Arenac County

Arenac County is home to 15,077 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.1% of Arenac County locals are male, and 48.9% are female.

Total population
15,077
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.1%
7,708
Female
48.9%
7,369
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,708 51.1% -0.0%
Female 7,369 48.9% 0.3%
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 Arenac County is 50, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.9% are children under 15, then 9.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.2% of the population, while another 28% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 27.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
50.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.9%
15 to 24
9.6%
25 to 44
20.2%
45 to 64
28%
Over 65
27.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,251 14.9% 0.1%
15 to 24 1,450 9.6% -1.0%
25 to 44 3,044 20.2% 0.7%
45 to 64 4,228 28% -2.9%
Over 65 4,104 27.2% 3.5%
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 Arenac County, 98.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 93.4% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 14,890 98.8% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 126 0.8% 13.5%
Non-citizens 61 0.4% -4.7%
Racial breakdown
White
93.4%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 14,086 93.4%
Black or African American 109 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 57 0.4%
Asian 29 0.2%
Two or more races 750 5%
Other 46 0.3%

Households in Arenac County

A peek inside Arenac County households

Arenac County has 6,552 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.1% are families, while the remaining 36.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,552
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,419
Family households
4,133
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,419 36.9% -1.6%
Family households 4,133 63.1% 4.3%
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 Arenac County

The housing landscape of Arenac County

Arenac County's housing consists of 9,554 units, with 81.2% 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 12.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,554
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,758 81.2%
1 unit, attached 99 1%
2 units 55 0.6%
3 or 4 units 101 1.1%
5 to 9 units 199 2.1%
10 to 19 units 55 0.6%
20 to 49 units 119 1.2%
50 or more units 4 0%
Mobile home 1,163 12.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
33
65.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Arenac County

In Arenac County, the median construction year is 1977. About 10.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,019 10.7% -1.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 480 5% 3.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 972 10.2% -3.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,036 10.8% -0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,895 19.8% 1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,400 14.6% -7.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,385 14.5% 3.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,040 10.9% 6.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 294 3.1% 1.4%
Built in 2020 or later 33 0.4% 65.0%
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.

Arenac County occupancy rates

Out of the 6,552 occupied housing units in Arenac County, 86.2% are owner-occupied, while 13.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 31.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,552
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
901
Owner occupied
5,651
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 901 13.8% -2.0%
Owner occupied 5,651 86.2% 2.7%
Unoccupied housing units
31.4%
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.

Arenac County housing costs

Housing costs in Arenac County come to a median of $745 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $761.

Median housing costs per month
$745/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 Arenac County
$761/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 Arenac County

Arenac County education at a glance

About 44.5% of the population in Arenac County went to high school, while 26.1% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 9.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 405 3.3% 4.4%
High school diploma 5,476 44.5% -2.0%
College diploma 3,212 26.1% 4.1%
Associate degree 1,348 11% -2.4%
Bachelor's degree 1,172 9.5% -3.9%
Graduate degree 682 5.6% 13.1%
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 Arenac County

How much people earn in Arenac County

The average annual household income in Arenac County was $72,218 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,811, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Arenac County
$72,218/year
3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Arenac County
$58,811/year
3.2% year-over-year change

Arenac County income by age

In Arenac County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $73,604. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $63,156 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $48,036, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,343 in earnings. Overall, 88.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $48,036 9.2%
25 - 44 $73,604 6.4%
45 - 64 $63,156 3.9%
Over 65 $49,343 1.3%
Above poverty level
13,052
Below poverty level
1,747
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,052 88.2% 2.1%
Below poverty level 1,747 11.8% -12.4%

Employment in Arenac County

Workforce and job types in Arenac County

The job market in Arenac County is powered by 6,230 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.7% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 11.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,230
-0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
3,993
Blue collar
2,237
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,993 64.1% -1.6%
Blue collar 2,237 35.9% 0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
13.7%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
11.2%
Not for profit companies
7.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 856 13.7% 6.3%
Private companies 4,185 67.2% -2.9%
Governmental workers 697 11.2% 0.1%
Not for profit companies 492 7.9% 5.3%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
-5.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Arenac County stands at 6%, 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 Arenac County

How people get around in Arenac County

In Arenac County, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
-3.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,305 87% -2.4%
Bus or trolleybus 11 0.2% -38.9%
Bicycle 38 0.6% 8.6%
Walk 172 2.8% 12.4%
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 Arenac County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48658 4,694 1,994 $53,750 $67,889
48659 2,563 993 $58,750 $70,547
48703 3,105 1,536 $64,792 $81,747
48610 3,300 1,482 $59,091 $65,330
48749 1,271 515 $51,544 $67,192
48765 535 254 $45,000 $60,606
48766 1,328 537 $56,583 $67,574

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FAQs about Arenac County demographics 

What is the total population of Arenac County?

Arenac County has a total population of 15,077 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 Arenac County?

The gender ratio in Arenac County is as follows:
  • 51.1% males (7,708 residents)
  • 48.9% females (7,369 residents)

What is the median age in Arenac County?

The median age in Arenac County is 50.2.

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

The age distribution in Arenac County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.9% (2,251 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.6% (1,450 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.2% (3,044 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28% (4,228 residents)
  • Over 65: 27.2% (4,104 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Arenac County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Arenac County is as follows:
  • White: 93.4% (14,086 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (109 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (57 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (29 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5% (750 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (46 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.8% of the population in Arenac County.

How many housing units are there in Arenac County?

There are 9,554 housing units in Arenac 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 Arenac County and what is the average household size?

Arenac County has a total of 6,552 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Arenac County?

Arenac County has a median household income of $58,811, representing a +3.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94% in Arenac County, with a workforce of 6,230 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.1% (3,993 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.9% (2,237 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.7% (856 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (4,185 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.2% (697 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.9% (492 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