Bay City, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
32,320
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$49,420/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,078
-0.6% year-over-year change

Bay City population

How many people live in Bay City

Bay City is home to 32,320 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.4% of Bay City locals are male, and 52.6% are female.

Total population
32,320
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.4%
15,317
Female
52.6%
17,003
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,317 47.4% -1.2%
Female 17,003 52.6% 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 Bay City is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.9% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.1% of the population, while another 26.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.9%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
27.1%
45 to 64
26.5%
Over 65
17.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,462 16.9% 0.7%
15 to 24 3,815 11.8% -8.1%
25 to 44 8,758 27.1% -2.8%
45 to 64 8,565 26.5% -2.2%
Over 65 5,720 17.7% 11.9%
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 Bay City, 97.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 84.4% of locals are Caucasian, 2.1% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 31,373 97.1% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 663 2% 38.1%
Non-citizens 284 0.9% -4.4%
Racial breakdown
White
84.4%
Black or African American
2.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
10.8%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 27,274 84.4%
Black or African American 669 2.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 85 0.3%
Asian 273 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 60 0.2%
Two or more races 3,479 10.8%
Other 480 1.5%

Households in Bay City

A peek inside Bay City households

Bay City has 14,677 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.5% are families, while the remaining 48.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,677
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,119
Family households
7,558
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,119 48.5% 1.7%
Family households 7,558 51.5% -0.0%
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 Bay City

The housing landscape of Bay City

Bay City's housing consists of 16,078 units, with 73.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.1% 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 1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,078
-0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,766 73.2%
1 unit, attached 665 4.1%
2 units 982 6.1%
3 or 4 units 813 5.1%
5 to 9 units 411 2.6%
10 to 19 units 203 1.3%
20 to 49 units 252 1.6%
50 or more units 811 5%
Mobile home 155 1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 20 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
45
66.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Bay City

In Bay City, the median construction year is 1941. About 49.2% 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, 2.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 7,911 49.2% -3.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,215 7.6% -11.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,751 17.1% 3.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,050 6.5% -8.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,367 8.5% 2.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 623 3.9% 25.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 451 2.8% -1.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 372 2.3% 3.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 293 1.8% 113.9%
Built in 2020 or later 45 0.3% 66.7%
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.

Bay City occupancy rates

Out of the 14,677 occupied housing units in Bay City, 70.1% are owner-occupied, while 29.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,677
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,392
Owner occupied
10,285
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,392 29.9% -4.3%
Owner occupied 10,285 70.1% 3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
8.7%
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.

Bay City housing costs

Housing costs in Bay City come to a median of $780 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $766.

Median housing costs per month
$780/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 Bay City
$766/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 Bay City

Bay City education at a glance

About 43.9% of the population in Bay City went to high school, while 26.7% pursued college studies. Another 8.8% earned an associate degree and 12% 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 777 3% -10.9%
High school diploma 11,329 43.9% -2.6%
College diploma 6,885 26.7% 0.7%
Associate degree 2,271 8.8% 9.4%
Bachelor's degree 3,097 12% 1.7%
Graduate degree 1,435 5.6% 10.8%
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 Bay City

How much people earn in Bay City

The average annual household income in Bay City was $63,008 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $49,420, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Bay City
$63,008/year
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Bay City
$49,420/year
3.2% year-over-year change

Bay City income by age

In Bay City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,793. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $48,010 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,568, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,000 in earnings. Overall, 81.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,568 21.7%
25 - 44 $63,793 4.8%
45 - 64 $48,010 4.1%
Over 65 $39,000 -3.4%
Above poverty level
25,635
Below poverty level
5,882
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 25,635 81.3% 2.3%
Below poverty level 5,882 18.7% -11.1%

Employment in Bay City

Workforce and job types in Bay City

The job market in Bay City is powered by 14,687 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6% run their own businesses, 70.7% are employed by private companies, and 10.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,687
-2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
11,217
Blue collar
3,470
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,217 76.4% -1.5%
Blue collar 3,470 23.6% -4.8%
Employer type
Self employees
6%
Private companies
70.7%
Governmental workers
10.4%
Not for profit companies
12.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 885 6% -17.1%
Private companies 10,380 70.7% -2.9%
Governmental workers 1,527 10.4% -4.6%
Not for profit companies 1,895 12.9% 13.1%
Unemployment rate
6.7%
-0.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Bay City stands at 6.7%, 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 Bay City

How people get around in Bay City

In Bay City, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3% 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
2.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,381 86.7% -3.9%
Taxicab 22 0.2% -18.5%
Bus or trolleybus 61 0.4% -24.7%
Bicycle 23 0.2% -25.8%
Walk 424 3% -0.5%
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 Bay City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48706 38,974 17,184 $62,747 $80,915
48708 25,635 11,364 $50,518 $66,337

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FAQs about Bay City demographics 

What is the total population of Bay City?

Bay City has a total population of 32,320 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 -0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Bay City?

The gender ratio in Bay City is as follows:
  • 47.4% males (15,317 residents)
  • 52.6% females (17,003 residents)

What is the median age in Bay City?

The median age in Bay City is 40.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Bay City?

The age distribution in Bay City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.9% (5,462 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (3,815 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.1% (8,758 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.5% (8,565 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.7% (5,720 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Bay City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Bay City is as follows:
  • White: 84.4% (27,274 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.1% (669 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (85 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (273 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (60 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.8% (3,479 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (480 residents)

What percentage of the population in Bay City are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.1% of the population in Bay City.

How many housing units are there in Bay City?

There are 16,078 housing units in Bay City, reflecting a -0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Bay City and what is the average household size?

Bay City has a total of 14,677 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Bay City?

Bay City has a median household income of $49,420, 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 Bay City?

The employment rate is 93.3% in Bay City, with a workforce of 14,687 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.4% (11,217 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.6% (3,470 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6% (885 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.7% (10,380 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.4% (1,527 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.9% (1,895 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