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

Total population
31,218
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$49,384/yr
-0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
22,008
0.2% year-over-year change

Clare County population

How many people live in Clare County

Clare County is home to 31,218 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Clare County locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
31,218
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
15,709
Female
49.7%
15,509
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,709 50.3% 0.2%
Female 15,509 49.7% 0.5%
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 Clare County is 49, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.8% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.6% of the population, while another 28.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
49
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.8%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
20.6%
45 to 64
28.1%
Over 65
25.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,928 15.8% -2.9%
15 to 24 3,087 9.9% 0.1%
25 to 44 6,439 20.6% 1.1%
45 to 64 8,776 28.1% -1.3%
Over 65 7,988 25.6% 3.9%
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 Clare County, 98.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 93.5% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 30,741 98.5% 0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 361 1.2% 22.4%
Non-citizens 116 0.4% 58.9%
Racial breakdown
White
93.5%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.8%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 29,185 93.5%
Black or African American 356 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 119 0.4%
Asian 102 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 1,195 3.8%
Other 260 0.8%

Households in Clare County

A peek inside Clare County households

Clare County has 12,521 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.3% are families, while the remaining 37.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,521
3.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,723
Family households
7,798
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,723 37.7% 2.9%
Family households 7,798 62.3% 3.1%
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 Clare County

The housing landscape of Clare County

Clare County's housing consists of 22,008 units, with 78.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.5% 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 16.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
22,008
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,302 78.6%
1 unit, attached 115 0.5%
2 units 174 0.8%
3 or 4 units 92 0.4%
5 to 9 units 252 1.2%
10 to 19 units 218 1%
20 to 49 units 185 0.8%
50 or more units 83 0.4%
Mobile home 3,571 16.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 16 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
91
82.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Clare County

In Clare County, the median construction year is 1976. About 5.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3% 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 1,178 5.4% -7.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,006 4.6% 8.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,725 12.4% 3.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,135 14.2% -4.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,940 22.4% 0.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,683 12.2% -3.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,930 13.3% -8.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,665 12.1% 11.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 655 3% 31.0%
Built in 2020 or later 91 0.4% 82.0%
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.

Clare County occupancy rates

Out of the 12,521 occupied housing units in Clare County, 86.9% are owner-occupied, while 13.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 43.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,521
3.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,643
Owner occupied
10,878
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,643 13.1% -2.0%
Owner occupied 10,878 86.9% 3.9%
Unoccupied housing units
43.1%
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.

Clare County housing costs

Housing costs in Clare County come to a median of $722 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $765.

Median housing costs per month
$722/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 Clare County
$765/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 Clare County

Clare County education at a glance

About 48.9% of the population in Clare County went to high school, while 23.2% pursued college studies. Another 10.2% earned an associate degree and 7.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,395 5.5% -0.1%
High school diploma 12,314 48.9% 3.7%
College diploma 5,852 23.2% -5.0%
Associate degree 2,571 10.2% 5.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,835 7.3% -1.2%
Graduate degree 1,237 4.9% 2.2%
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 Clare County

How much people earn in Clare County

The average annual household income in Clare County was $68,316 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $49,384, reflecting a -0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Clare County
$68,316/year
3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Clare County
$49,384/year
-0.8% year-over-year change

Clare County income by age

In Clare County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,162. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $54,345 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,091, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,986 in earnings. Overall, 78.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,091 -1.1%
25 - 44 $63,162 0.1%
45 - 64 $54,345 6.4%
Over 65 $42,986 -4.3%
Above poverty level
23,996
Below poverty level
6,589
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 23,996 78.5% -0.2%
Below poverty level 6,589 21.5% 3.0%

Employment in Clare County

Workforce and job types in Clare County

The job market in Clare County is powered by 10,789 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.3% run their own businesses, 69.4% are employed by private companies, and 12.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,789
-0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
7,350
Blue collar
3,439
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,350 68.1% -3.3%
Blue collar 3,439 31.9% 4.8%
Employer type
Self employees
11.3%
Private companies
69.4%
Governmental workers
12.1%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,218 11.3% 1.1%
Private companies 7,493 69.4% -0.3%
Governmental workers 1,304 12.1% -0.9%
Not for profit companies 774 7.2% -8.7%
Unemployment rate
9.5%
11.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Clare County stands at 9.5%, 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 Clare County

How people get around in Clare County

In Clare County, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
3.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,873 84.1% -2.0%
Taxicab 36 0.3% 5.9%
Bus or trolleybus 32 0.3% 52.4%
Motorcycle 10 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 49 0.5% 19.5%
Walk 260 2.5% -13.6%
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 Clare County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48617 9,403 3,314 $58,321 $78,198
48622 6,345 2,490 $56,804 $73,003
48624 16,234 7,105 $55,130 $72,931
48625 12,704 5,510 $43,030 $61,231
48632 5,268 2,019 $57,036 $76,668
48633 95 78 $48,261 $48,453
49665 3,983 1,640 $54,265 $73,048

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FAQs about Clare County demographics 

What is the total population of Clare County?

Clare County has a total population of 31,218 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Clare County?

The gender ratio in Clare County is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (15,709 residents)
  • 49.7% females (15,509 residents)

What is the median age in Clare County?

The median age in Clare County is 49.

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

The age distribution in Clare County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.8% (4,928 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (3,087 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.6% (6,439 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.1% (8,776 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.6% (7,988 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Clare County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Clare County is as follows:
  • White: 93.5% (29,185 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (356 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (119 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (102 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.8% (1,195 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (260 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.5% of the population in Clare County.

How many housing units are there in Clare County?

There are 22,008 housing units in Clare 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 Clare County and what is the average household size?

Clare County has a total of 12,521 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Clare County?

Clare County has a median household income of $49,384, representing a -0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 90.5% in Clare County, with a workforce of 10,789 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.1% (7,350 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.9% (3,439 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.3% (1,218 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.4% (7,493 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.1% (1,304 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (774 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