Grand Traverse County, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
96,166
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$81,647/yr
2.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
47,003
1.2% year-over-year change

Grand Traverse County population

How many people live in Grand Traverse County

Grand Traverse County is home to 96,166 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Grand Traverse County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
96,166
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
47,649
Female
50.4%
48,517
Value Percent YoY change
Male 47,649 49.6% 0.7%
Female 48,517 50.4% 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 Grand Traverse County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.8% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 26.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.8%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
26.4%
Over 65
22%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 15,153 15.8% -0.9%
15 to 24 10,784 11.2% 0.4%
25 to 44 23,717 24.7% 0.6%
45 to 64 25,403 26.4% -1.4%
Over 65 21,109 22% 3.6%
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 Traverse County, 97.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.7% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 93,410 97.1% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,108 2.2% 2.4%
Non-citizens 648 0.7% -2.3%
Racial breakdown
White
91.7%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.5%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 88,184 91.7%
Black or African American 789 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 623 0.6%
Asian 655 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0%
Two or more races 5,251 5.5%
Other 660 0.7%

Households in Grand Traverse County

A peek inside Grand Traverse County households

Grand Traverse County has 40,287 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.2% are families, while the remaining 37.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
40,287
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
15,245
Family households
25,042
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 15,245 37.8% 2.3%
Family households 25,042 62.2% 1.4%
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 Traverse County

The housing landscape of Grand Traverse County

Grand Traverse County's housing consists of 47,003 units, with 72.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.3% 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 6.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
47,003
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 34,089 72.5%
1 unit, attached 2,042 4.3%
2 units 900 1.9%
3 or 4 units 1,226 2.6%
5 to 9 units 1,318 2.8%
10 to 19 units 1,678 3.6%
20 to 49 units 1,316 2.8%
50 or more units 1,262 2.7%
Mobile home 3,155 6.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 17 0%
Homes built since 2020
957
97.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Grand Traverse County

In Grand Traverse County, the median construction year is 1986. About 9.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 18% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,641 9.9% -2.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,004 2.1% -6.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,242 6.9% -3.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,170 4.6% 0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,457 18% 4.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,430 13.7% 8.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,712 14.3% -8.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8,485 18% -0.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 4,905 10.4% 3.9%
Built in 2020 or later 957 2% 97.7%
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 Traverse County occupancy rates

Out of the 40,287 occupied housing units in Grand Traverse County, 77.2% are owner-occupied, while 22.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
40,287
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
9,197
Owner occupied
31,090
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 9,197 22.8% -1.0%
Owner occupied 31,090 77.2% 2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
14.3%
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 Traverse County housing costs

Housing costs in Grand Traverse County come to a median of $1,210 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,288.

Median housing costs per month
$1,210/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 Traverse County
$1,288/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 Traverse County

Grand Traverse County education at a glance

About 27.1% of the population in Grand Traverse County went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 11.3% earned an associate degree and 22.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,021 1.3% 1.7%
High school diploma 21,027 27.1% -0.6%
College diploma 17,517 22.6% -1.5%
Associate degree 8,749 11.3% 5.5%
Bachelor's degree 17,357 22.4% 2.0%
Graduate degree 11,806 15.2% 0.9%
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 Traverse County

How much people earn in Grand Traverse County

The average annual household income in Grand Traverse County was $105,300 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $81,647, reflecting a +2.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Grand Traverse County
$105,300/year
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Grand Traverse County
$81,647/year
2.7% year-over-year change

Grand Traverse County income by age

In Grand Traverse County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $94,489. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,999 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,834, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $61,808 in earnings. Overall, 90.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,834 21.5%
25 - 44 $94,489 8.0%
45 - 64 $95,999 1.7%
Over 65 $61,808 3.9%
Above poverty level
85,137
Below poverty level
9,048
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 85,137 90.4% -0.8%
Below poverty level 9,048 9.6% 13.0%

Employment in Grand Traverse County

Workforce and job types in Grand Traverse County

The job market in Grand Traverse County is powered by 48,850 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.1% run their own businesses, 64.7% are employed by private companies, and 9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
48,850
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
38,690
Blue collar
10,160
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 38,690 79.2% 0.6%
Blue collar 10,160 20.8% -1.7%
Employer type
Self employees
13.1%
Private companies
64.7%
Governmental workers
9%
Not for profit companies
13.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,401 13.1% 2.8%
Private companies 31,623 64.7% -1.2%
Governmental workers 4,392 9% -7.2%
Not for profit companies 6,434 13.2% 9.9%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
6.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Grand Traverse County stands at 3.8%, 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 Grand Traverse County

How people get around in Grand Traverse County

Commuting methods vary: 79.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 38,491 79.8% -1.2%
Taxicab 25 0% 25.0%
Bus or trolleybus 186 0.4% -46.1%
Railroad 33 0.1% 0.0%
Motorcycle 12 0% -7.7%
Bicycle 699 1.4% 15.3%
Walk 1,052 2.2% -0.6%
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 Grand Traverse County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49643 6,963 2,787 $81,222 $93,734
49649 7,239 2,418 $74,656 $94,024
49684 21,585 9,429 $80,788 $120,421
49686 25,492 12,007 $71,609 $105,577
49690 6,657 2,620 $108,712 $137,895
49620 3,070 1,112 $75,192 $82,423
49633 3,410 1,588 $73,681 $90,826
49637 3,646 1,256 $75,000 $89,627

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FAQs about Grand Traverse County demographics 

What is the total population of Grand Traverse County?

Grand Traverse County has a total population of 96,166 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Grand Traverse County?

The gender ratio in Grand Traverse County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (47,649 residents)
  • 50.4% females (48,517 residents)

What is the median age in Grand Traverse County?

The median age in Grand Traverse County is 43.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Grand Traverse County?

The age distribution in Grand Traverse County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.8% (15,153 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (10,784 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (23,717 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.4% (25,403 residents)
  • Over 65: 22% (21,109 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Grand Traverse County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Grand Traverse County is as follows:
  • White: 91.7% (88,184 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (789 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (623 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (655 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.5% (5,251 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (660 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.1% of the population in Grand Traverse County.

How many housing units are there in Grand Traverse County?

There are 47,003 housing units in Grand Traverse County, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Grand Traverse County has a total of 40,287 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Grand Traverse County?

Grand Traverse County has a median household income of $81,647, representing a +2.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Grand Traverse County, with a workforce of 48,850 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.2% (38,690 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.8% (10,160 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.1% (6,401 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.7% (31,623 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9% (4,392 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.2% (6,434 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