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

Total population
45,654
-0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$64,242/yr
5.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,515
0.1% year-over-year change

Hillsdale County population

How many people live in Hillsdale County

Hillsdale County is home to 45,654 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Hillsdale County locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
45,654
-0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
22,852
Female
50%
22,802
Value Percent YoY change
Male 22,852 50% -0.3%
Female 22,802 50% 0.3%
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 Hillsdale County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.6% are children under 15, then 13.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.5% of the population, while another 26.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.6%
15 to 24
13.1%
25 to 44
21.5%
45 to 64
26.4%
Over 65
21.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,031 17.6% -0.0%
15 to 24 5,996 13.1% -2.0%
25 to 44 9,817 21.5% 0.9%
45 to 64 12,047 26.4% -2.0%
Over 65 9,763 21.4% 3.0%
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 Hillsdale County, 98.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 93.4% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 44,795 98.1% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 570 1.2% 18.3%
Non-citizens 289 0.6% 28.4%
Racial breakdown
White
93.4%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.8%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 42,662 93.4%
Black or African American 318 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 31 0.1%
Asian 117 0.3%
Two or more races 2,186 4.8%
Other 340 0.7%

Households in Hillsdale County

A peek inside Hillsdale County households

Hillsdale County has 17,860 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.7% are families, while the remaining 33.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
17,860
0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,954
Family households
11,906
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,954 33.3% -5.1%
Family households 11,906 66.7% 2.8%
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 Hillsdale County

The housing landscape of Hillsdale County

Hillsdale County's housing consists of 21,515 units, with 82.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 9.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,515
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,723 82.4%
1 unit, attached 132 0.6%
2 units 323 1.5%
3 or 4 units 333 1.6%
5 to 9 units 375 1.7%
10 to 19 units 179 0.8%
20 to 49 units 351 1.6%
50 or more units 124 0.6%
Mobile home 1,975 9.2%
Homes built since 2020
224
61.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Hillsdale County

In Hillsdale County, the median construction year is 1971. About 27% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,804 27% 1.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,097 5.1% -15.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,854 8.6% 1.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,854 8.6% -0.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,815 13.1% -5.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,054 9.6% 13.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,025 14.1% -1.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,063 9.6% -2.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 725 3.4% 13.6%
Built in 2020 or later 224 1% 61.1%
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.

Hillsdale County occupancy rates

Out of the 17,860 occupied housing units in Hillsdale County, 82% are owner-occupied, while 18% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
17,860
0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,213
Owner occupied
14,647
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,213 18% -5.2%
Owner occupied 14,647 82% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
17.0%
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.

Hillsdale County housing costs

Housing costs in Hillsdale County come to a median of $869 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $832.

Median housing costs per month
$869/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 Hillsdale County
$832/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 Hillsdale County

Hillsdale County education at a glance

About 47.3% of the population in Hillsdale County went to high school, while 22.3% pursued college studies. Another 8.2% earned an associate degree and 12.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,001 2.8% -19.9%
High school diploma 16,940 47.3% 0.8%
College diploma 8,000 22.3% -2.2%
Associate degree 2,944 8.2% 5.0%
Bachelor's degree 4,368 12.2% 6.6%
Graduate degree 2,575 7.2% -3.4%
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 Hillsdale County

How much people earn in Hillsdale County

The average annual household income in Hillsdale County was $81,816 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $64,242, reflecting a +5.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Hillsdale County
$81,816/year
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Hillsdale County
$64,242/year
5.5% year-over-year change

Hillsdale County income by age

In Hillsdale County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,835. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,819 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $60,377, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,508 in earnings. Overall, 85.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $60,377 21.5%
25 - 44 $72,835 7.9%
45 - 64 $74,819 6.0%
Over 65 $48,508 -0.2%
Above poverty level
37,284
Below poverty level
6,261
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 37,284 85.6% 1.1%
Below poverty level 6,261 14.4% -6.2%

Employment in Hillsdale County

Workforce and job types in Hillsdale County

The job market in Hillsdale County is powered by 20,188 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.2% run their own businesses, 65.7% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
20,188
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
13,482
Blue collar
6,706
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,482 66.8% 0.0%
Blue collar 6,706 33.2% -0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
11.2%
Private companies
65.7%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,265 11.2% 5.3%
Private companies 13,263 65.7% -0.3%
Governmental workers 2,329 11.5% -7.6%
Not for profit companies 2,331 11.6% 2.9%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
-2.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Hillsdale County stands at 4.4%, 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 Hillsdale County

How people get around in Hillsdale County

Commuting methods vary: 85.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.4% 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 16,995 85.8% 0.2%
Taxicab 3 0% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 34 0.2% -15.0%
Ferryboat 3 0% -25.0%
Motorcycle 10 0% -33.3%
Bicycle 126 0.6% 22.3%
Walk 874 4.4% -3.1%
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 Hillsdale County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49220 2,439 1,002 $72,500 $85,768
49227 1,287 516 $53,587 $75,114
49232 2,790 936 $56,324 $70,881
49233 2,938 1,150 $81,250 $101,772
49242 14,750 5,427 $61,029 $78,003
49247 5,205 2,125 $59,787 $78,872
49249 3,462 1,456 $82,407 $118,851
49250 5,653 2,308 $65,744 $83,390
49252 2,556 1,067 $55,762 $70,517
49255 2,072 614 $51,346 $63,927

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FAQs about Hillsdale County demographics 

What is the total population of Hillsdale County?

Hillsdale County has a total population of 45,654 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 -0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Hillsdale County?

The gender ratio in Hillsdale County is as follows:
  • 50% males (22,852 residents)
  • 50% females (22,802 residents)

What is the median age in Hillsdale County?

The median age in Hillsdale County is 43.1.

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

The age distribution in Hillsdale County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.6% (8,031 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.1% (5,996 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.5% (9,817 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.4% (12,047 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.4% (9,763 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Hillsdale County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Hillsdale County is as follows:
  • White: 93.4% (42,662 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (318 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (31 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (117 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.8% (2,186 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (340 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Hillsdale County?

There are 21,515 housing units in Hillsdale County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Hillsdale County has a total of 17,860 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Hillsdale County?

Hillsdale County has a median household income of $64,242, representing a +5.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Hillsdale County, with a workforce of 20,188 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66.8% (13,482 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33.2% (6,706 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.2% (2,265 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.7% (13,263 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (2,329 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.6% (2,331 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