Harper Woods, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
15,116
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,022/yr
5.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,961
0.9% year-over-year change

Harper Woods population

How many people live in Harper Woods

Harper Woods is home to 15,116 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.9% of Harper Woods locals are male, and 53.1% are female.

Total population
15,116
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.9%
7,090
Female
53.1%
8,026
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,090 46.9% 2.7%
Female 8,026 53.1% -3.4%
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 Harper Woods is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.9% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.9% of the population, while another 24.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.9%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
25.9%
45 to 64
24.4%
Over 65
14.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,615 23.9% 6.5%
15 to 24 1,733 11.5% -4.7%
25 to 44 3,919 25.9% -4.5%
45 to 64 3,693 24.4% -1.9%
Over 65 2,156 14.3% 1.5%
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 Harper Woods, 96.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 29.7% of locals are Caucasian, 63.4% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 14,569 96.4% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 446 3% 8.0%
Non-citizens 101 0.7% 77.2%
Racial breakdown
White
29.7%
Black or African American
63.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.7%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 4,487 29.7%
Black or African American 9,579 63.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 43 0.3%
Asian 94 0.6%
Two or more races 855 5.7%
Other 58 0.4%

Households in Harper Woods

A peek inside Harper Woods households

Harper Woods has 5,595 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 56.4% are families, while the remaining 43.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,595
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,437
Family households
3,158
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,437 43.6% -1.9%
Family households 3,158 56.4% 1.8%
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 Harper Woods

The housing landscape of Harper Woods

Harper Woods's housing consists of 5,961 units, with 84.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.4% 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 0.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,961
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,025 84.3%
1 unit, attached 86 1.4%
2 units 17 0.3%
3 or 4 units 294 4.9%
5 to 9 units 213 3.6%
10 to 19 units 115 1.9%
50 or more units 183 3.1%
Mobile home 28 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Harper Woods

In Harper Woods, the median construction year is 1955. About 5.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 20% 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 345 5.8% 42.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,195 20% 12.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,835 47.6% -5.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 638 10.7% -26.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 342 5.7% 6.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 478 8% 70.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 128 2.2% 18.5%
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.

Harper Woods occupancy rates

Out of the 5,595 occupied housing units in Harper Woods, 67.2% are owner-occupied, while 32.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,595
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,838
Owner occupied
3,757
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,838 32.8% -3.1%
Owner occupied 3,757 67.2% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
6.1%
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.

Harper Woods housing costs

Housing costs in Harper Woods come to a median of $1,288 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,351.

Median housing costs per month
$1,288/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 Harper Woods
$1,351/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 Harper Woods

Harper Woods education at a glance

About 35.1% of the population in Harper Woods went to high school, while 28.7% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 15.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 333 3.1% 158.1%
High school diploma 3,815 35.1% -10.7%
College diploma 3,123 28.7% 0.3%
Associate degree 1,001 9.2% -7.9%
Bachelor's degree 1,701 15.6% -0.9%
Graduate degree 893 8.2% 6.4%
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 Harper Woods

How much people earn in Harper Woods

The average annual household income in Harper Woods was $77,156 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,022, reflecting a +5.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Harper Woods
$77,156/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Harper Woods
$65,022/year
5.8% year-over-year change

Harper Woods income by age

In Harper Woods, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $59,213. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,853 overall. Overall, 80.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $59,213 3.1%
45 - 64 $76,853 7.3%
Over 65 $53,558 2.9%
Above poverty level
11,953
Below poverty level
2,963
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,953 80.1% -0.3%
Below poverty level 2,963 19.9% -0.2%

Average renter income in Harper Woods

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Harper Woods, their median household income was $52,016 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$52,016
Rent-to-income ratio
31.2%
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 Harper Woods

Workforce and job types in Harper Woods

The job market in Harper Woods is powered by 6,825 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 72.7% are employed by private companies, and 11.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,825
-0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
5,067
Blue collar
1,758
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,067 74.2% 0.1%
Blue collar 1,758 25.8% -3.6%
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
72.7%
Governmental workers
11.1%
Not for profit companies
8.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 522 7.6% -5.4%
Private companies 4,961 72.7% 0.9%
Governmental workers 760 11.1% -4.0%
Not for profit companies 582 8.5% -7.0%
Unemployment rate
7.1%
-3.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Harper Woods stands at 7.1%, 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 Harper Woods

How people get around in Harper Woods

Commuting methods vary: 82.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.2% 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 5,310 82.3% -4.5%
Taxicab 27 0.4% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 35 0.5% -57.3%
Railroad 40 0.6% 2.6%
Bicycle 5 0.1% -68.8%
Walk 12 0.2% -79.3%
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 Harper Woods by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48225 16,098 5,902 $61,750 $76,441

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FAQs about Harper Woods demographics 

What is the total population of Harper Woods?

Harper Woods has a total population of 15,116 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Harper Woods?

The gender ratio in Harper Woods is as follows:
  • 46.9% males (7,090 residents)
  • 53.1% females (8,026 residents)

What is the median age in Harper Woods?

The median age in Harper Woods is 37.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Harper Woods?

The age distribution in Harper Woods is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.9% (3,615 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (1,733 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.9% (3,919 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.4% (3,693 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.3% (2,156 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Harper Woods?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Harper Woods is as follows:
  • White: 29.7% (4,487 residents)
  • Black or African American: 63.4% (9,579 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (43 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (94 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.7% (855 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (58 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.4% of the population in Harper Woods.

How many housing units are there in Harper Woods?

There are 5,961 housing units in Harper Woods, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Harper Woods has a total of 5,595 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Harper Woods?

Harper Woods has a median household income of $65,022, representing a +5.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Harper Woods?

The employment rate is 92.9% in Harper Woods, with a workforce of 6,825 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.2% (5,067 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.8% (1,758 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (522 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.7% (4,961 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.1% (760 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.5% (582 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