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

Total population
41,385
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,556/yr
4.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,081
0.2% year-over-year change

Gratiot County population

How many people live in Gratiot County

Gratiot County is home to 41,385 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 54% of Gratiot County locals are male, and 46% are female.

Total population
41,385
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
54%
22,349
Female
46%
19,036
Value Percent YoY change
Male 22,349 54% -0.4%
Female 19,036 46% -0.0%
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 Gratiot County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 16% are children under 15, then 14.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.7% of the population, while another 24.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
16%
15 to 24
14.8%
25 to 44
26.7%
45 to 64
24.7%
Over 65
17.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,602 16% -0.5%
15 to 24 6,145 14.8% -2.6%
25 to 44 11,034 26.7% 1.1%
45 to 64 10,227 24.7% -1.3%
Over 65 7,377 17.8% 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 Gratiot County, 98.1% 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, 86% of locals are Caucasian, 5.8% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 40,605 98.1% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 435 1% 6.6%
Non-citizens 345 0.8% 3.6%
Racial breakdown
White
86%
Black or African American
5.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.7%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 35,595 86%
Black or African American 2,413 5.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 108 0.3%
Asian 169 0.4%
Two or more races 2,366 5.7%
Other 734 1.8%

Households in Gratiot County

A peek inside Gratiot County households

Gratiot County has 14,775 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.8% are families, while the remaining 34.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,775
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,055
Family households
9,720
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,055 34.2% 6.3%
Family households 9,720 65.8% -0.4%
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 Gratiot County

The housing landscape of Gratiot County

Gratiot County's housing consists of 16,081 units, with 77.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% 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 9.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,081
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,425 77.3%
1 unit, attached 291 1.8%
2 units 340 2.1%
3 or 4 units 366 2.3%
5 to 9 units 476 3%
10 to 19 units 160 1%
20 to 49 units 209 1.3%
50 or more units 256 1.6%
Mobile home 1,555 9.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 3 0%
Homes built since 2020
93
36.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Gratiot County

In Gratiot County, the median construction year is 1966. About 22.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,658 22.8% 1.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,098 6.8% -14.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,976 12.3% 1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,068 12.9% 0.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,277 14.2% 2.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,525 9.5% -4.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,774 11% 3.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,207 7.5% 1.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 405 2.5% 19.5%
Built in 2020 or later 93 0.6% 36.8%
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.

Gratiot County occupancy rates

Out of the 14,775 occupied housing units in Gratiot County, 78.9% are owner-occupied, while 21.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,775
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,124
Owner occupied
11,651
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,124 21.1% 1.8%
Owner occupied 11,651 78.9% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
8.1%
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.

Gratiot County housing costs

Housing costs in Gratiot County come to a median of $881 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $834.

Median housing costs per month
$881/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 Gratiot County
$834/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 Gratiot County

Gratiot County education at a glance

About 45.9% of the population in Gratiot County went to high school, while 26.2% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 12.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 727 2.2% -6.0%
High school diploma 15,288 45.9% 1.4%
College diploma 8,743 26.2% -2.1%
Associate degree 2,769 8.3% 1.1%
Bachelor's degree 4,089 12.3% -1.9%
Graduate degree 1,690 5.1% -0.8%
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 Gratiot County

How much people earn in Gratiot County

The average annual household income in Gratiot County was $83,011 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,556, reflecting a +4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Gratiot County
$83,011/year
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Gratiot County
$63,556/year
4.0% year-over-year change

Gratiot County income by age

In Gratiot County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,340. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,880 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,558, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,153 in earnings. Overall, 86.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,558 -1.6%
25 - 44 $72,340 4.0%
45 - 64 $80,880 10.1%
Over 65 $43,153 0.3%
Above poverty level
30,102
Below poverty level
4,822
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,102 86.2% 0.1%
Below poverty level 4,822 13.8% -2.0%

Employment in Gratiot County

Workforce and job types in Gratiot County

The job market in Gratiot County is powered by 17,359 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, 9.1% run their own businesses, 65.4% are employed by private companies, and 13.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,359
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
12,703
Blue collar
4,656
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,703 73.2% 2.0%
Blue collar 4,656 26.8% -1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9.1%
Private companies
65.4%
Governmental workers
13.4%
Not for profit companies
12.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,579 9.1% 1.6%
Private companies 11,344 65.4% 2.7%
Governmental workers 2,335 13.4% -4.8%
Not for profit companies 2,101 12.1% -0.8%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
-11.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Gratiot County stands at 4.2%, 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 Gratiot County

How people get around in Gratiot County

In Gratiot County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4% 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
-2.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 14,707 86.6% -0.4%
Taxicab 16 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 24 0.1% -76.7%
Motorcycle 24 0.1% 200.0%
Bicycle 86 0.5% -17.3%
Walk 673 4% 13.3%
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 Gratiot County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48615 3,061 1,120 $70,000 $85,526
48637 3,024 1,257 $65,865 $78,479
48662 1,185 507 $70,321 $80,025
48801 13,278 4,995 $58,750 $77,270
48806 1,752 667 $61,375 $81,772
48807 658 301 $60,825 $73,378
48811 7,440 1,926 $70,625 $79,132
48832 1,307 536 $73,393 $74,895
48847 5,663 2,335 $66,264 $82,101
48856 966 330 $91,413 $94,433

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FAQs about Gratiot County demographics 

What is the total population of Gratiot County?

Gratiot County has a total population of 41,385 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 Gratiot County?

The gender ratio in Gratiot County is as follows:
  • 54% males (22,349 residents)
  • 46% females (19,036 residents)

What is the median age in Gratiot County?

The median age in Gratiot County is 39.6.

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

The age distribution in Gratiot County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16% (6,602 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.8% (6,145 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.7% (11,034 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.7% (10,227 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.8% (7,377 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Gratiot County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Gratiot County is as follows:
  • White: 86% (35,595 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.8% (2,413 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (108 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (169 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.7% (2,366 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (734 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.1% of the population in Gratiot County.

How many housing units are there in Gratiot County?

There are 16,081 housing units in Gratiot County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Gratiot County has a total of 14,775 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Gratiot County?

Gratiot County has a median household income of $63,556, representing a +4.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.8% in Gratiot County, with a workforce of 17,359 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.2% (12,703 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.8% (4,656 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.1% (1,579 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.4% (11,344 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.4% (2,335 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.1% (2,101 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