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

Total population
34,125
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$78,112/yr
6.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,979
0.4% year-over-year change

Emmet County population

How many people live in Emmet County

Emmet County is home to 34,125 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Emmet County locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
34,125
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
16,953
Female
50.3%
17,172
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,953 49.7% -0.3%
Female 17,172 50.3% 0.1%
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 Emmet County is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.5% are children under 15, then 11% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.5% of the population, while another 26.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25% are 65 or older.

Median age
47
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.5%
15 to 24
11%
25 to 44
22.5%
45 to 64
26.9%
Over 65
25%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,961 14.5% -0.7%
15 to 24 3,758 11% -1.3%
25 to 44 7,693 22.5% -0.4%
45 to 64 9,192 26.9% -1.8%
Over 65 8,521 25% 3.0%
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 Emmet County, 97.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.6% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.9%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 33,287 97.5% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 652 1.9% 16.4%
Non-citizens 186 0.6% 15.5%
Racial breakdown
White
89.6%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.8%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.5%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 30,564 89.6%
Black or African American 210 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 612 1.8%
Asian 176 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 10 0%
Two or more races 2,217 6.5%
Other 336 1%

Households in Emmet County

A peek inside Emmet County households

Emmet County has 15,190 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.2% are families, while the remaining 34.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,190
4.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,289
Family households
9,901
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,289 34.8% 6.0%
Family households 9,901 65.2% 3.0%
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 Emmet County

The housing landscape of Emmet County

Emmet County's housing consists of 21,979 units, with 73.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.4% 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 5.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,979
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 16,165 73.6%
1 unit, attached 745 3.4%
2 units 527 2.4%
3 or 4 units 647 2.9%
5 to 9 units 997 4.5%
10 to 19 units 728 3.3%
20 to 49 units 467 2.1%
50 or more units 408 1.9%
Mobile home 1,200 5.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 95 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
209
45.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Emmet County

In Emmet County, the median construction year is 1985. About 15% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,286 15% 4.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 542 2.5% -22.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,301 5.9% 2.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,216 5.5% -3.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,963 13.5% -1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,619 16.5% 9.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,126 18.8% -7.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,607 16.4% 7.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,110 5% -10.7%
Built in 2020 or later 209 1% 45.1%
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.

Emmet County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,190 occupied housing units in Emmet County, 77% are owner-occupied, while 23% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 30.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,190
4.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,488
Owner occupied
11,702
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,488 23% 2.9%
Owner occupied 11,702 77% 4.3%
Unoccupied housing units
30.9%
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.

Emmet County housing costs

Housing costs in Emmet County come to a median of $1,125 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,112.

Median housing costs per month
$1,125/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 Emmet County
$1,112/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 Emmet County

Emmet County education at a glance

About 27.5% of the population in Emmet County went to high school, while 22.2% pursued college studies. Another 9.7% earned an associate degree and 23.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 264 0.9% 14.3%
High school diploma 7,684 27.5% -5.5%
College diploma 6,211 22.2% -2.5%
Associate degree 2,718 9.7% 3.9%
Bachelor's degree 6,509 23.3% 5.7%
Graduate degree 4,551 16.3% 3.0%
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 Emmet County

How much people earn in Emmet County

The average annual household income in Emmet County was $109,768 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $78,112, reflecting a +6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Emmet County
$109,768/year
4.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Emmet County
$78,112/year
6.0% year-over-year change

Emmet County income by age

In Emmet County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $79,129. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,530 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,944, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $63,900 in earnings. Overall, 91.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,944 37.6%
25 - 44 $79,129 7.3%
45 - 64 $95,530 5.6%
Over 65 $63,900 4.8%
Above poverty level
30,432
Below poverty level
2,866
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,432 91.4% 0.7%
Below poverty level 2,866 8.6% -7.0%

Employment in Emmet County

Workforce and job types in Emmet County

The job market in Emmet County is powered by 16,778 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.6% run their own businesses, 59.4% are employed by private companies, and 13.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,778
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
13,239
Blue collar
3,539
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,239 78.9% -0.6%
Blue collar 3,539 21.1% 3.0%
Employer type
Self employees
15.6%
Private companies
59.4%
Governmental workers
13.1%
Not for profit companies
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,613 15.6% 7.3%
Private companies 9,965 59.4% -2.9%
Governmental workers 2,205 13.1% 0.6%
Not for profit companies 1,995 11.9% 7.1%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
-9.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Emmet County stands at 3.2%, 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 Emmet County

How people get around in Emmet County

In Emmet County, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
-0.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,805 83.7% 0.2%
Taxicab 58 0.4% 11.5%
Bus or trolleybus 24 0.2% -20.0%
Subway or elevated 16 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 51 0.3% 21.4%
Bicycle 79 0.5% -35.2%
Walk 625 3.8% -16.6%
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 Emmet County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49701 882 433 $44,583 $60,887
49706 4,920 2,315 $76,906 $89,823
49716 1,006 389 $100,179 $114,512
49718 619 260 $48,750 $71,670
49722 73 45 $87,721 $73,084
49740 7,197 3,321 $89,250 $127,589
49755 1,799 848 $65,789 $84,186
49764 46 46 $0 $0
49769 1,718 668 $67,558 $74,666
49770 18,221 7,945 $79,590 $116,112

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FAQs about Emmet County demographics 

What is the total population of Emmet County?

Emmet County has a total population of 34,125 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Emmet County?

The gender ratio in Emmet County is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (16,953 residents)
  • 50.3% females (17,172 residents)

What is the median age in Emmet County?

The median age in Emmet County is 47.

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

The age distribution in Emmet County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.5% (4,961 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11% (3,758 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.5% (7,693 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.9% (9,192 residents)
  • Over 65: 25% (8,521 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Emmet County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Emmet County is as follows:
  • White: 89.6% (30,564 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (210 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.8% (612 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (176 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (10 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.5% (2,217 residents)
  • Other: 1% (336 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.5% of the population in Emmet County.

How many housing units are there in Emmet County?

There are 21,979 housing units in Emmet County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Emmet County has a total of 15,190 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Emmet County?

Emmet County has a median household income of $78,112, representing a +6.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.8% in Emmet County, with a workforce of 16,778 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.9% (13,239 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.1% (3,539 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.6% (2,613 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.4% (9,965 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.1% (2,205 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.9% (1,995 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