Dearborn Heights, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
61,771
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,391/yr
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
23,808
1.7% year-over-year change

Dearborn Heights population

How many people live in Dearborn Heights

Dearborn Heights is home to 61,771 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Dearborn Heights locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
61,771
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
30,506
Female
50.6%
31,265
Value Percent YoY change
Male 30,506 49.4% 0.2%
Female 31,265 50.6% -1.3%
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 Dearborn Heights is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.6% are children under 15, then 13.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.2% of the population, while another 23.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.6%
15 to 24
13.1%
25 to 44
27.2%
45 to 64
23.3%
Over 65
15.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 12,735 20.6% -0.1%
15 to 24 8,100 13.1% 4.6%
25 to 44 16,816 27.2% 0.6%
45 to 64 14,365 23.3% -7.6%
Over 65 9,755 15.8% 4.4%
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 Dearborn Heights, 73.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 20.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.7% of locals are Caucasian, 10.1% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
73.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
20.2%
Non-citizens
6.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 45,556 73.8% -1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 12,460 20.2% 1.4%
Non-citizens 3,755 6.1% 6.0%
Racial breakdown
White
80.7%
Black or African American
10.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.9%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 49,853 80.7%
Black or African American 6,212 10.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 9 0%
Asian 648 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 7 0%
Two or more races 4,262 6.9%
Other 780 1.3%

Households in Dearborn Heights

A peek inside Dearborn Heights households

Dearborn Heights has 22,242 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.8% are families, while the remaining 33.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
22,242
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
7,386
Family households
14,856
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,386 33.2% 2.4%
Family households 14,856 66.8% 0.6%
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 Dearborn Heights

The housing landscape of Dearborn Heights

Dearborn Heights's housing consists of 23,808 units, with 86.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.7% 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 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
23,808
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 20,674 86.8%
1 unit, attached 410 1.7%
2 units 9 0%
3 or 4 units 581 2.4%
5 to 9 units 773 3.2%
10 to 19 units 199 0.8%
20 to 49 units 264 1.1%
50 or more units 552 2.3%
Mobile home 342 1.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 4 0%
Homes built since 2020
21
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dearborn Heights

In Dearborn Heights, the median construction year is 1958. About 4.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 0.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,130 4.8% -4.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,427 10.2% -3.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 11,013 46.3% 7.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,635 19.5% -0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,222 9.3% -10.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,046 4.4% 6.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 426 1.8% 26.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 815 3.4% 2.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 73 0.3% -68.8%
Built in 2020 or later 21 0.1% N/A
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.

Dearborn Heights occupancy rates

Out of the 22,242 occupied housing units in Dearborn Heights, 70.4% are owner-occupied, while 29.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
22,242
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,572
Owner occupied
15,670
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,572 29.6% 5.1%
Owner occupied 15,670 70.4% -0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
6.6%
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.

Dearborn Heights housing costs

Housing costs in Dearborn Heights come to a median of $1,118 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,331.

Median housing costs per month
$1,118/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 Dearborn Heights
$1,331/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 Dearborn Heights

Dearborn Heights education at a glance

About 37.2% of the population in Dearborn Heights went to high school, while 23.3% pursued college studies. Another 12% earned an associate degree and 15% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,840 4% -3.0%
High school diploma 17,213 37.2% -3.8%
College diploma 10,756 23.3% -2.6%
Associate degree 5,544 12% 19.0%
Bachelor's degree 6,935 15% -2.8%
Graduate degree 3,933 8.5% 0.4%
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 Dearborn Heights

How much people earn in Dearborn Heights

The average annual household income in Dearborn Heights was $78,582 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 $60,391, reflecting a -1.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dearborn Heights
$78,582/year
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dearborn Heights
$60,391/year
-1.1% year-over-year change

Dearborn Heights income by age

In Dearborn Heights, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,903. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,986 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,000, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,549 in earnings. Overall, 78.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,000 7.3%
25 - 44 $70,903 5.2%
45 - 64 $67,986 -0.7%
Over 65 $45,549 -6.3%
Above poverty level
47,287
Below poverty level
13,255
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 47,287 78.1% -2.2%
Below poverty level 13,255 21.9% 6.9%

Average renter income in Dearborn Heights

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Dearborn Heights, their median household income was $42,037 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 38%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$42,037
Rent-to-income ratio
38%
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 Dearborn Heights

Workforce and job types in Dearborn Heights

The job market in Dearborn Heights is powered by 25,686 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.9% run their own businesses, 74.7% are employed by private companies, and 6.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
25,686
-0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
18,803
Blue collar
6,883
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 18,803 73.2% -2.1%
Blue collar 6,883 26.8% 2.7%
Employer type
Self employees
10.9%
Private companies
74.7%
Governmental workers
6.9%
Not for profit companies
7.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,811 10.9% 4.8%
Private companies 19,176 74.7% -2.0%
Governmental workers 1,766 6.9% 1.0%
Not for profit companies 1,933 7.5% 0.6%
Unemployment rate
7.9%
5.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dearborn Heights stands at 7.9%, 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 Dearborn Heights

How people get around in Dearborn Heights

In Dearborn Heights, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
-1.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 21,305 85.3% -3.2%
Taxicab 16 0.1% 23.1%
Bus or trolleybus 62 0.2% -7.5%
Bicycle 13 0% 30.0%
Walk 260 1% -3.0%
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 Dearborn Heights by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48127 39,646 13,813 $60,742 $80,409
48125 22,125 8,429 $60,195 $75,588

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FAQs about Dearborn Heights demographics 

What is the total population of Dearborn Heights?

Dearborn Heights has a total population of 61,771 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dearborn Heights?

The gender ratio in Dearborn Heights is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (30,506 residents)
  • 50.6% females (31,265 residents)

What is the median age in Dearborn Heights?

The median age in Dearborn Heights is 35.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Dearborn Heights?

The age distribution in Dearborn Heights is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.6% (12,735 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.1% (8,100 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.2% (16,816 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.3% (14,365 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.8% (9,755 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dearborn Heights?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dearborn Heights is as follows:
  • White: 80.7% (49,853 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.1% (6,212 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (9 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (648 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (7 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.9% (4,262 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (780 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 73.8% of the population in Dearborn Heights.

How many housing units are there in Dearborn Heights?

There are 23,808 housing units in Dearborn Heights, reflecting a +1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Dearborn Heights and what is the average household size?

Dearborn Heights has a total of 22,242 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dearborn Heights?

Dearborn Heights has a median household income of $60,391, representing a -1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Dearborn Heights?

The employment rate is 92.1% in Dearborn Heights, with a workforce of 25,686 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.2% (18,803 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.8% (6,883 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.9% (2,811 residents)
  • Private companies: 74.7% (19,176 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 6.9% (1,766 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.5% (1,933 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