Birmingham, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
21,763
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$153,510/yr
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,342
0.2% year-over-year change

Birmingham population

How many people live in Birmingham

Birmingham is home to 21,763 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Birmingham locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
21,763
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
10,625
Female
51.2%
11,138
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,625 48.8% -1.7%
Female 11,138 51.2% 3.1%
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 Birmingham is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.8% are children under 15, then 8.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.1% of the population, while another 27.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.8%
15 to 24
8.8%
25 to 44
25.1%
45 to 64
27.1%
Over 65
18.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,526 20.8% -0.7%
15 to 24 1,911 8.8% -4.6%
25 to 44 5,472 25.1% 2.6%
45 to 64 5,899 27.1% -2.0%
Over 65 3,955 18.2% 7.0%
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 Birmingham, 88.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 84.5% of locals are Caucasian, 2.8% are African American and 5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.3%
Non-citizens
4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,316 88.8% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,579 7.3% -4.1%
Non-citizens 868 4% 20.2%
Racial breakdown
White
84.5%
Black or African American
2.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 18,390 84.5%
Black or African American 615 2.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 6 0%
Asian 1,090 5%
Two or more races 1,532 7%
Other 130 0.6%

Households in Birmingham

A peek inside Birmingham households

Birmingham has 9,440 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.3% are families, while the remaining 41.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,440
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,939
Family households
5,501
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,939 41.7% 1.1%
Family households 5,501 58.3% 1.3%
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 Birmingham

The housing landscape of Birmingham

Birmingham's housing consists of 10,342 units, with 70.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.4% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,342
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,306 70.6%
1 unit, attached 663 6.4%
2 units 81 0.8%
3 or 4 units 388 3.8%
5 to 9 units 411 4%
10 to 19 units 477 4.6%
20 to 49 units 444 4.3%
50 or more units 565 5.5%
Mobile home 7 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
140
84.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Birmingham

In Birmingham, the median construction year is 1960. About 15.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,640 15.9% 1.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,087 10.5% -8.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,468 23.9% 2.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,188 11.5% 8.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 893 8.6% 0.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 527 5.1% -11.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 554 5.4% 2.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,201 11.6% -3.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 644 6.2% -5.4%
Built in 2020 or later 140 1.4% 84.2%
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.

Birmingham occupancy rates

Out of the 9,440 occupied housing units in Birmingham, 77.1% are owner-occupied, while 22.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,440
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,162
Owner occupied
7,278
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,162 22.9% -2.7%
Owner occupied 7,278 77.1% 2.5%
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.

Birmingham housing costs

Housing costs in Birmingham come to a median of $2,428 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,902.

Median housing costs per month
$2,428/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 Birmingham
$1,902/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 Birmingham

Birmingham education at a glance

About 7.6% of the population in Birmingham went to high school, while 13.9% pursued college studies. Another 3.4% earned an associate degree and 35.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 39% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 106 0.6% 12.8%
High school diploma 1,239 7.6% -2.6%
College diploma 2,260 13.9% 6.9%
Associate degree 553 3.4% -6.9%
Bachelor's degree 5,758 35.4% -0.7%
Graduate degree 6,330 39% 4.2%
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 Birmingham

How much people earn in Birmingham

The average annual household income in Birmingham was $248,544 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $153,510, reflecting a +0.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Birmingham
$248,544/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Birmingham
$153,510/year
0.2% year-over-year change

Birmingham income by age

In Birmingham, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $173,081. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $216,946 overall. Overall, 94.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $173,081 2.7%
45 - 64 $216,946 4.6%
Over 65 $90,513 -2.8%
Above poverty level
20,423
Below poverty level
1,095
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 20,423 94.9% 0.7%
Below poverty level 1,095 5.1% 4.2%

Average renter income in Birmingham

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Birmingham, their median household income was $81,484 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 28%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$81,484
Rent-to-income ratio
28%
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 Birmingham

Workforce and job types in Birmingham

The job market in Birmingham is powered by 11,006 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 95.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 4.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.8% run their own businesses, 71.1% are employed by private companies, and 5.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,006
-2.1% year-over-year change
White collar
10,482
Blue collar
524
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,482 95.2% -2.4%
Blue collar 524 4.8% 4.6%
Employer type
Self employees
12.8%
Private companies
71.1%
Governmental workers
5.4%
Not for profit companies
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,410 12.8% -11.7%
Private companies 7,822 71.1% -1.1%
Governmental workers 596 5.4% -2.6%
Not for profit companies 1,178 10.7% 4.8%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
8.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Birmingham stands at 4.4%, 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 Birmingham

How people get around in Birmingham

Commuting methods vary: 71.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 7,797 71.4% -3.6%
Bus or trolleybus 14 0.1% -56.2%
Bicycle 22 0.2% -43.6%
Walk 176 1.6% -2.2%
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 Birmingham by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48009 21,772 9,449 $153,401 $248,443

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Birmingham demographics 

What is the total population of Birmingham?

Birmingham has a total population of 21,763 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 Birmingham?

The gender ratio in Birmingham is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (10,625 residents)
  • 51.2% females (11,138 residents)

What is the median age in Birmingham?

The median age in Birmingham is 41.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Birmingham?

The age distribution in Birmingham is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.8% (4,526 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.8% (1,911 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.1% (5,472 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.1% (5,899 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.2% (3,955 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Birmingham?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Birmingham is as follows:
  • White: 84.5% (18,390 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.8% (615 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (6 residents)
  • Asian: 5% (1,090 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7% (1,532 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (130 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.8% of the population in Birmingham.

How many housing units are there in Birmingham?

There are 10,342 housing units in Birmingham, 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 Birmingham and what is the average household size?

Birmingham has a total of 9,440 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Birmingham?

Birmingham has a median household income of $153,510, representing a +0.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Birmingham?

The employment rate is 95.6% in Birmingham, with a workforce of 11,006 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 95.2% (10,482 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 4.8% (524 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.8% (1,410 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.1% (7,822 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 5.4% (596 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.7% (1,178 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