Grand Rapids Township, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
17,674
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$96,690/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,123
0.4% year-over-year change

Grand Rapids population

How many people live in Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids is home to 17,674 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Grand Rapids locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
17,674
1.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
8,639
Female
51.1%
9,035
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,639 48.9% 2.8%
Female 9,035 51.1% 1.0%
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 Grand Rapids is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.3% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 23% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.3%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
23%
Over 65
19.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,405 19.3% 5.6%
15 to 24 2,299 13% -0.6%
25 to 44 4,467 25.3% 1.6%
45 to 64 4,064 23% -2.0%
Over 65 3,440 19.5% 5.2%
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 Grand Rapids, 92.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.4% of locals are Caucasian, 4.7% are African American and 3.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.5%
Non-citizens
3.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,275 92.1% 1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 803 4.5% 12.0%
Non-citizens 596 3.4% -1.3%
Racial breakdown
White
83.4%
Black or African American
4.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
3.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6.7%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 14,733 83.4%
Black or African American 828 4.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 21 0.1%
Asian 683 3.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 19 0.1%
Two or more races 1,192 6.7%
Other 198 1.1%

Households in Grand Rapids

A peek inside Grand Rapids households

Grand Rapids has 6,921 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 70.5% are families, while the remaining 29.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,921
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,042
Family households
4,879
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,042 29.5% -3.7%
Family households 4,879 70.5% 2.1%
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 Grand Rapids

The housing landscape of Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids's housing consists of 7,123 units, with 66.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.6% 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 1.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,123
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,747 66.6%
1 unit, attached 758 10.6%
2 units 94 1.3%
3 or 4 units 246 3.4%
5 to 9 units 365 5.1%
10 to 19 units 417 5.9%
20 to 49 units 161 2.3%
50 or more units 246 3.4%
Mobile home 88 1.2%
Homes built since 2020
87
234.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Grand Rapids

In Grand Rapids, the median construction year is 1982. About 4.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 296 4.2% 5.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 202 2.8% -6.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 734 10.3% 3.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 782 11% -4.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,278 17.9% -1.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,204 16.9% 4.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,224 17.2% -1.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 655 9.2% 2.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 662 9.3% -7.3%
Built in 2020 or later 87 1.2% 234.6%
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.

Grand Rapids occupancy rates

Out of the 6,921 occupied housing units in Grand Rapids, 75.9% are owner-occupied, while 24.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,921
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,665
Owner occupied
5,256
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,665 24.1% -2.9%
Owner occupied 5,256 75.9% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
2.8%
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.

Grand Rapids housing costs

Housing costs in Grand Rapids come to a median of $1,332 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,388.

Median housing costs per month
$1,332/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 Grand Rapids
$1,388/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 Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids education at a glance

About 20.3% of the population in Grand Rapids went to high school, while 19.7% pursued college studies. Another 8.7% earned an associate degree and 32.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 153 1.1% 5.5%
High school diploma 2,776 20.3% -0.5%
College diploma 2,686 19.7% -2.8%
Associate degree 1,184 8.7% -1.1%
Bachelor's degree 4,434 32.5% 3.5%
Graduate degree 2,428 17.8% 4.9%
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 Grand Rapids

How much people earn in Grand Rapids

The average annual household income in Grand Rapids was $123,489 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 $96,690, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Grand Rapids
$123,489/year
3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Grand Rapids
$96,690/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Grand Rapids income by age

In Grand Rapids, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $106,773. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $121,778 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,524, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $69,418 in earnings. Overall, 91.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,524 -22.8%
25 - 44 $106,773 0.7%
45 - 64 $121,778 4.4%
Over 65 $69,418 8.6%
Above poverty level
15,417
Below poverty level
1,422
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,417 91.6% 1.7%
Below poverty level 1,422 8.4% 5.2%

Average renter income in Grand Rapids

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Grand Rapids, their median household income was $42,861 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 38.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$42,861
Rent-to-income ratio
38.9%
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 Grand Rapids

Workforce and job types in Grand Rapids

84.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.4% run their own businesses, 65.6% are employed by private companies, and 7.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
7,682
Blue collar
1,367
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,682 84.9% 0.5%
Blue collar 1,367 15.1% 3.7%
Employer type
Self employees
11.4%
Private companies
65.6%
Governmental workers
7.6%
Not for profit companies
15.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,027 11.4% -1.7%
Private companies 5,938 65.6% -0.6%
Governmental workers 689 7.6% -1.9%
Not for profit companies 1,395 15.4% 12.6%

Transportation in Grand Rapids

How people get around in Grand Rapids

In Grand Rapids, the average commute time is 10 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 96.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
10 min
42.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,736 96.4% -0.8%
Taxicab 2 0% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 28 0.4% -54.1%
Motorcycle 4 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 19 0.3% 0.0%
Walk 197 2.8% -1.0%
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 Grand Rapids by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49525 30,887 12,329 $94,037 $126,626
49546 34,721 13,088 $99,343 $143,139

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FAQs about Grand Rapids demographics 

What is the total population of Grand Rapids?

Grand Rapids has a total population of 17,674 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 +1.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Grand Rapids?

The gender ratio in Grand Rapids is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (8,639 residents)
  • 51.1% females (9,035 residents)

What is the median age in Grand Rapids?

The median age in Grand Rapids is 39.

What is the age distribution of the population in Grand Rapids?

The age distribution in Grand Rapids is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.3% (3,405 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (2,299 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (4,467 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23% (4,064 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.5% (3,440 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Grand Rapids?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Grand Rapids is as follows:
  • White: 83.4% (14,733 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.7% (828 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (21 residents)
  • Asian: 3.9% (683 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (19 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.7% (1,192 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (198 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.1% of the population in Grand Rapids.

How many housing units are there in Grand Rapids?

There are 7,123 housing units in Grand Rapids, 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 Grand Rapids and what is the average household size?

Grand Rapids has a total of 6,921 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Grand Rapids?

Grand Rapids has a median household income of $96,690, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Grand Rapids?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.9% (7,682 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.1% (1,367 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.4% (1,027 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.6% (5,938 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 7.6% (689 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 15.4% (1,395 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