Benton Harbor, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,953
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$31,117/yr
4.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,239
-2.0% year-over-year change

Benton Harbor population

How many people live in Benton Harbor

Benton Harbor is home to 8,953 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.2% of Benton Harbor locals are male, and 54.8% are female.

Total population
8,953
-0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.2%
4,047
Female
54.8%
4,906
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,047 45.2% -3.8%
Female 4,906 54.8% 1.9%
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 Benton Harbor is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.8% are children under 15, then 14.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.3% of the population, while another 24.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 10.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.8%
15 to 24
14.1%
25 to 44
26.3%
45 to 64
24.5%
Over 65
10.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,225 24.8% 8.4%
15 to 24 1,266 14.1% -10.6%
25 to 44 2,351 26.3% -6.3%
45 to 64 2,193 24.5% -3.7%
Over 65 918 10.2% 19.5%
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 Benton Harbor, 98.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 6.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.7%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,811 98.4% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 61 0.7% 1.7%
Non-citizens 81 0.9% 12.5%
Racial breakdown
White
9.1%
Black or African American
81.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.2%
Other
3.2%
Value Percent
White 816 9.1%
Black or African American 7,296 81.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3 0%
Two or more races 551 6.2%
Other 287 3.2%

Households in Benton Harbor

A peek inside Benton Harbor households

Benton Harbor has 3,624 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 68% are families, while the remaining 32% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,624
-3.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,161
Family households
2,463
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,161 32% -12.1%
Family households 2,463 68% 1.9%
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 Benton Harbor

The housing landscape of Benton Harbor

Benton Harbor's housing consists of 4,239 units, with 72.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.3% 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 0.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,239
-2.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,088 72.8%
1 unit, attached 55 1.3%
2 units 165 3.9%
3 or 4 units 149 3.5%
5 to 9 units 245 5.8%
10 to 19 units 66 1.6%
20 to 49 units 205 4.8%
50 or more units 243 5.7%
Mobile home 23 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
14
133.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Benton Harbor

In Benton Harbor, the median construction year is 1956. About 30.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4% 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 1,284 30.3% -7.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 313 7.4% 7.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 884 20.8% 8.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 465 11% 0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 496 11.7% 6.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 203 4.8% -1.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 68 1.6% -42.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 342 8.1% -6.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 170 4% -15.4%
Built in 2020 or later 14 0.3% 133.3%
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.

Benton Harbor occupancy rates

Out of the 3,624 occupied housing units in Benton Harbor, 36.7% are owner-occupied, while 63.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,624
-3.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,295
Owner occupied
1,329
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,295 63.3% -3.4%
Owner occupied 1,329 36.7% -2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
14.5%
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.

Benton Harbor housing costs

Housing costs in Benton Harbor come to a median of $770 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $851.

Median housing costs per month
$770/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 Benton Harbor
$851/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 Benton Harbor

Benton Harbor education at a glance

About 55.5% of the population in Benton Harbor went to high school, while 27.6% pursued college studies. Another 5.5% earned an associate degree and 5.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 1.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 277 4.5% 12.2%
High school diploma 3,438 55.5% 0.0%
College diploma 1,713 27.6% -8.8%
Associate degree 341 5.5% -16.0%
Bachelor's degree 317 5.1% -7.6%
Graduate degree 109 1.8% -29.2%
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 Benton Harbor

How much people earn in Benton Harbor

The average annual household income in Benton Harbor was $44,753 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $31,117, reflecting a +4.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Benton Harbor
$44,753/year
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Benton Harbor
$31,117/year
4.9% year-over-year change

Benton Harbor income by age

In Benton Harbor, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $31,267. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $35,390 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $24,281, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $25,785 in earnings. Overall, 60.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $24,281 -8.5%
25 - 44 $31,267 1.0%
45 - 64 $35,390 14.7%
Over 65 $25,785 4.9%
Above poverty level
5,226
Below poverty level
3,462
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,226 60.2% 1.9%
Below poverty level 3,462 39.8% -6.6%

Average renter income in Benton Harbor

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Benton Harbor, their median household income was $21,264 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 48%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$21,264
Rent-to-income ratio
48%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Benton Harbor

Workforce and job types in Benton Harbor

The job market in Benton Harbor is powered by 3,116 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.8% run their own businesses, 72.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,116
-4.8% year-over-year change
White collar
2,451
Blue collar
665
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,451 78.7% -8.1%
Blue collar 665 21.3% 10.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7.8%
Private companies
72.7%
Governmental workers
12.3%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 243 7.8% 1.2%
Private companies 2,264 72.7% -6.9%
Governmental workers 384 12.3% 10.7%
Not for profit companies 225 7.2% -11.1%
Unemployment rate
21.6%
0.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Benton Harbor stands at 21.6%, 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 Benton Harbor

How people get around in Benton Harbor

Commuting methods vary: 89% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,653 89% -3.5%
Bus or trolleybus 23 0.8% -37.8%
Bicycle 13 0.4% N/A
Walk 103 3.5% 0.0%
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 Benton Harbor by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49022 29,460 12,868 $39,499 $59,607

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Benton Harbor demographics 

What is the total population of Benton Harbor?

Benton Harbor has a total population of 8,953 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 -0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Benton Harbor?

The gender ratio in Benton Harbor is as follows:
  • 45.2% males (4,047 residents)
  • 54.8% females (4,906 residents)

What is the median age in Benton Harbor?

The median age in Benton Harbor is 32.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Benton Harbor?

The age distribution in Benton Harbor is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.8% (2,225 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.1% (1,266 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.3% (2,351 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.5% (2,193 residents)
  • Over 65: 10.2% (918 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Benton Harbor?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Benton Harbor is as follows:
  • White: 9.1% (816 residents)
  • Black or African American: 81.5% (7,296 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (3 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.2% (551 residents)
  • Other: 3.2% (287 residents)

What percentage of the population in Benton Harbor are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.4% of the population in Benton Harbor.

How many housing units are there in Benton Harbor?

There are 4,239 housing units in Benton Harbor, reflecting a -2.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Benton Harbor and what is the average household size?

Benton Harbor has a total of 3,624 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Benton Harbor?

Benton Harbor has a median household income of $31,117, representing a +4.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Benton Harbor?

The employment rate is 78.4% in Benton Harbor, with a workforce of 3,116 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.7% (2,451 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.3% (665 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.8% (243 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.7% (2,264 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.3% (384 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (225 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