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

Total population
18,310
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,834/yr
3.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,326
0.8% year-over-year change

Benzie County population

How many people live in Benzie County

Benzie County is home to 18,310 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Benzie County locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
18,310
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
9,198
Female
49.8%
9,112
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,198 50.2% 0.7%
Female 9,112 49.8% 0.7%
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 Benzie County is 51, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.8% are children under 15, then 9.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.6% of the population, while another 27.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 28.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
50.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.8%
15 to 24
9.6%
25 to 44
20.6%
45 to 64
27.3%
Over 65
28.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,518 13.8% -0.2%
15 to 24 1,759 9.6% 2.8%
25 to 44 3,779 20.6% -1.2%
45 to 64 4,993 27.3% -1.5%
Over 65 5,261 28.7% 4.2%
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 Benzie County, 98% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.8% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.9% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,951 98% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 251 1.4% 14.6%
Non-citizens 108 0.6% 12.5%
Racial breakdown
White
91.8%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
4.4%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 16,806 91.8%
Black or African American 124 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 167 0.9%
Asian 161 0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 21 0.1%
Two or more races 802 4.4%
Other 229 1.2%

Households in Benzie County

A peek inside Benzie County households

Benzie County has 7,708 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.8% are families, while the remaining 32.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,708
3.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,479
Family households
5,229
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,479 32.2% 3.0%
Family households 5,229 67.8% 3.4%
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 Benzie County

The housing landscape of Benzie County

Benzie County's housing consists of 12,326 units, with 86.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.5% 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 7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,326
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,638 86.3%
1 unit, attached 180 1.5%
2 units 116 0.9%
3 or 4 units 167 1.4%
5 to 9 units 146 1.2%
10 to 19 units 99 0.8%
20 to 49 units 29 0.2%
50 or more units 47 0.4%
Mobile home 861 7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 43 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
68
13.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Benzie County

In Benzie County, the median construction year is 1985. About 11.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,403 11.4% 7.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 553 4.5% -10.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 849 6.9% 7.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,185 9.6% -5.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,471 11.9% -2.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,383 11.2% -1.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,697 21.9% -5.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,034 16.5% 12.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 683 5.5% 9.5%
Built in 2020 or later 68 0.6% 13.3%
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.

Benzie County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,708 occupied housing units in Benzie County, 87.8% are owner-occupied, while 12.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 37.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,708
3.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
944
Owner occupied
6,764
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 944 12.2% 3.9%
Owner occupied 6,764 87.8% 3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
37.5%
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.

Benzie County housing costs

Housing costs in Benzie County come to a median of $1,041 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,026.

Median housing costs per month
$1,041/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 Benzie County
$1,026/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 Benzie County

Benzie County education at a glance

About 32.7% of the population in Benzie County went to high school, while 21.8% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 21.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 258 1.7% -3.7%
High school diploma 4,976 32.7% 0.2%
College diploma 3,310 21.8% -6.2%
Associate degree 1,364 9% -5.9%
Bachelor's degree 3,331 21.9% 10.5%
Graduate degree 1,977 13% 7.6%
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 Benzie County

How much people earn in Benzie County

The average annual household income in Benzie County was $98,649 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,834, reflecting a +3.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Benzie County
$98,649/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Benzie County
$74,834/year
3.1% year-over-year change

Benzie County income by age

In Benzie County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $87,644. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,534 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,143, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,877 in earnings. Overall, 90.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,143 -6.3%
25 - 44 $87,644 7.5%
45 - 64 $87,534 2.5%
Over 65 $60,877 2.8%
Above poverty level
16,226
Below poverty level
1,697
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,226 90.5% 1.3%
Below poverty level 1,697 9.5% -4.2%

Employment in Benzie County

Workforce and job types in Benzie County

The job market in Benzie County is powered by 8,146 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.6% run their own businesses, 58.1% are employed by private companies, and 14.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,146
1.3% year-over-year change
White collar
6,454
Blue collar
1,692
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,454 79.2% 4.1%
Blue collar 1,692 20.8% -8.2%
Employer type
Self employees
14.6%
Private companies
58.1%
Governmental workers
14.4%
Not for profit companies
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,188 14.6% 13.6%
Private companies 4,731 58.1% -3.0%
Governmental workers 1,170 14.4% 10.3%
Not for profit companies 1,057 13% -0.5%
Unemployment rate
3.1%
-25.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Benzie County stands at 3.1%, 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 Benzie County

How people get around in Benzie County

In Benzie County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
-0.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,877 85.7% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 67 0.8% 3.1%
Bicycle 15 0.2% 66.7%
Walk 94 1.2% 59.3%
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 Benzie County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49643 6,963 2,787 $81,222 $93,734
49650 3,411 1,332 $87,500 $97,085
49683 2,225 972 $61,250 $78,676
49613 528 278 $77,955 $126,426
49616 2,162 878 $57,982 $77,481
49617 3,526 1,546 $74,207 $99,479
49628 174 70 $114,375 $150,464
49630 1,390 685 $106,375 $163,380
49635 3,339 1,507 $72,422 $112,141
49640 1,252 598 $83,214 $107,892

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FAQs about Benzie County demographics 

What is the total population of Benzie County?

Benzie County has a total population of 18,310 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Benzie County?

The gender ratio in Benzie County is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (9,198 residents)
  • 49.8% females (9,112 residents)

What is the median age in Benzie County?

The median age in Benzie County is 50.8.

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

The age distribution in Benzie County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.8% (2,518 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.6% (1,759 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.6% (3,779 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.3% (4,993 residents)
  • Over 65: 28.7% (5,261 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Benzie County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Benzie County is as follows:
  • White: 91.8% (16,806 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (124 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (167 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (161 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (21 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.4% (802 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (229 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98% of the population in Benzie County.

How many housing units are there in Benzie County?

There are 12,326 housing units in Benzie County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Benzie County has a total of 7,708 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Benzie County?

Benzie County has a median household income of $74,834, representing a +3.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.9% in Benzie County, with a workforce of 8,146 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.2% (6,454 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.8% (1,692 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.6% (1,188 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.1% (4,731 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.4% (1,170 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13% (1,057 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