Escanaba, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
12,354
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$45,369/yr
12.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,464
-1.4% year-over-year change

Escanaba population

How many people live in Escanaba

Escanaba is home to 12,354 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.7% of Escanaba locals are male, and 52.3% are female.

Total population
12,354
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.7%
5,890
Female
52.3%
6,464
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,890 47.7% -0.5%
Female 6,464 52.3% 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 Escanaba is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 17% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.5% of the population, while another 25.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
17%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
22.5%
45 to 64
25.8%
Over 65
23.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,101 17% -2.9%
15 to 24 1,418 11.5% 5.8%
25 to 44 2,776 22.5% -4.3%
45 to 64 3,186 25.8% 1.3%
Over 65 2,873 23.3% 1.7%
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 Escanaba, 98.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,131 98.2% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 119 1% -0.8%
Non-citizens 104 0.8% 141.9%
Racial breakdown
White
87.1%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.9%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 10,760 87.1%
Black or African American 56 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 146 1.2%
Asian 129 1%
Two or more races 1,218 9.9%
Other 45 0.4%

Households in Escanaba

A peek inside Escanaba households

Escanaba has 5,715 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 48.6% are families, while the remaining 51.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,715
0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,940
Family households
2,775
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,940 51.4% 0.8%
Family households 2,775 48.6% -0.8%
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 Escanaba

The housing landscape of Escanaba

Escanaba's housing consists of 6,464 units, with 64.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 5.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,464
-1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,187 64.8%
1 unit, attached 79 1.2%
2 units 639 9.9%
3 or 4 units 156 2.4%
5 to 9 units 319 4.9%
10 to 19 units 150 2.3%
20 to 49 units 165 2.6%
50 or more units 420 6.5%
Mobile home 349 5.4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Escanaba

In Escanaba, the median construction year is 1952. About 38.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,503 38.7% -10.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 472 7.3% 9.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,029 15.9% -2.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 635 9.8% 0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 815 12.6% -6.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 283 4.4% 1.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 411 6.4% 46.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 223 3.4% 18.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 93 1.4% 151.3%
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.

Escanaba occupancy rates

Out of the 5,715 occupied housing units in Escanaba, 63.9% are owner-occupied, while 36.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,715
0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,062
Owner occupied
3,653
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,062 36.1% -12.9%
Owner occupied 3,653 63.9% 9.2%
Unoccupied housing units
11.6%
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.

Escanaba housing costs

Housing costs in Escanaba come to a median of $704 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $657.

Median housing costs per month
$704/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 Escanaba
$657/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 Escanaba

Escanaba education at a glance

About 43.1% of the population in Escanaba went to high school, while 22.1% pursued college studies. Another 14.8% earned an associate degree and 12.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 178 1.8% -14.4%
High school diploma 4,245 43.1% -2.9%
College diploma 2,181 22.1% 0.2%
Associate degree 1,463 14.8% 17.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,249 12.7% 2.4%
Graduate degree 543 5.5% 5.4%
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 Escanaba

How much people earn in Escanaba

The average annual household income in Escanaba was $65,961 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $45,369, reflecting a +13% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Escanaba
$65,961/year
5.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Escanaba
$45,369/year
12.9% year-over-year change

Escanaba income by age

In Escanaba, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $56,943. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $45,724 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,429, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $30,266 in earnings. Overall, 82.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,429 -3.5%
25 - 44 $56,943 -2.8%
45 - 64 $45,724 16.2%
Over 65 $30,266 14.6%
Above poverty level
9,720
Below poverty level
2,070
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,720 82.4% 3.6%
Below poverty level 2,070 17.6% -16.2%

Average renter income in Escanaba

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Escanaba, their median household income was $24,403 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,403
Rent-to-income ratio
32.3%
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 Escanaba

Workforce and job types in Escanaba

The job market in Escanaba is powered by 4,941 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.5% run their own businesses, 65.3% are employed by private companies, and 14.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,941
3.6% year-over-year change
White collar
3,679
Blue collar
1,262
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,679 74.5% 11.4%
Blue collar 1,262 25.5% -14.0%
Employer type
Self employees
10.5%
Private companies
65.3%
Governmental workers
14.4%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 518 10.5% 6.4%
Private companies 3,227 65.3% -2.1%
Governmental workers 713 14.4% 27.8%
Not for profit companies 483 9.8% 13.1%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
-19.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Escanaba stands at 5.2%, 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 Escanaba

How people get around in Escanaba

In Escanaba, the average commute time is 11 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
11 min
-0.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,252 87.3% 2.7%
Bus or trolleybus 41 0.8% 10.8%
Bicycle 55 1.1% -15.4%
Walk 148 3% -2.0%
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 Escanaba by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49829 16,416 7,475 $50,277 $68,363

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FAQs about Escanaba demographics 

What is the total population of Escanaba?

Escanaba has a total population of 12,354 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Escanaba?

The gender ratio in Escanaba is as follows:
  • 47.7% males (5,890 residents)
  • 52.3% females (6,464 residents)

What is the median age in Escanaba?

The median age in Escanaba is 44.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Escanaba?

The age distribution in Escanaba is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17% (2,101 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (1,418 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.5% (2,776 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.8% (3,186 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.3% (2,873 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Escanaba?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Escanaba is as follows:
  • White: 87.1% (10,760 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (56 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (146 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (129 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.9% (1,218 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (45 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.2% of the population in Escanaba.

How many housing units are there in Escanaba?

There are 6,464 housing units in Escanaba, reflecting a -1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Escanaba has a total of 5,715 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Escanaba?

Escanaba has a median household income of $45,369, representing a +12.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.8% in Escanaba, with a workforce of 4,941 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.5% (3,679 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.5% (1,262 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.5% (518 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.3% (3,227 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.4% (713 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (483 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