Hillsdale, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,002
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,038/yr
6.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,073
-2.5% year-over-year change

Hillsdale population

How many people live in Hillsdale

Hillsdale is home to 8,002 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.8% of Hillsdale locals are male, and 52.2% are female.

Total population
8,002
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.8%
3,825
Female
52.2%
4,177
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,825 47.8% -1.5%
Female 4,177 52.2% 1.2%
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 is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.7% are children under 15, then 29.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.3% of the population, while another 16.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
29.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.7%
15 to 24
29.7%
25 to 44
23.3%
45 to 64
16.8%
Over 65
14.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,258 15.7% -2.6%
15 to 24 2,374 29.7% 2.1%
25 to 44 1,862 23.3% 4.8%
45 to 64 1,345 16.8% -10.9%
Over 65 1,163 14.5% 4.7%
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 Hillsdale, 95.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90% of locals are Caucasian, 1.4% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.9%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,657 95.7% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 229 2.9% 8.0%
Non-citizens 116 1.4% 11.5%
Racial breakdown
White
90%
Black or African American
1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.7%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 7,203 90%
Black or African American 112 1.4%
Asian 33 0.4%
Two or more races 536 6.7%
Other 118 1.5%

Households in Hillsdale

A peek inside Hillsdale households

Hillsdale has 2,654 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.4% are families, while the remaining 44.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,654
-5.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,183
Family households
1,471
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,183 44.6% -6.8%
Family households 1,471 55.4% -4.0%
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

The housing landscape of Hillsdale

Hillsdale's housing consists of 3,073 units, with 58.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.1% 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 4.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,073
-2.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,793 58.4%
1 unit, attached 65 2.1%
2 units 189 6.2%
3 or 4 units 151 4.9%
5 to 9 units 202 6.6%
10 to 19 units 138 4.5%
20 to 49 units 291 9.5%
50 or more units 115 3.7%
Mobile home 129 4.2%
Homes built since 2020
34
-17.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Hillsdale

In Hillsdale, the median construction year is 1951. About 39.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 0.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,220 39.7% -0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 243 7.9% 6.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 517 16.8% -1.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 276 9% -18.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 298 9.7% -29.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 233 7.6% 46.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 153 5% 51.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 16 0.5% -38.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 83 2.7% -2.4%
Built in 2020 or later 34 1.1% -17.1%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 2,654 occupied housing units in Hillsdale, 53.6% are owner-occupied, while 46.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,654
-5.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,231
Owner occupied
1,423
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,231 46.4% -10.6%
Owner occupied 1,423 53.6% -0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
13.6%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Hillsdale come to a median of $846 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $812.

Median housing costs per month
$846/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
$812/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

Hillsdale education at a glance

About 44.4% of the population in Hillsdale went to high school, while 28.3% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 12.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 28 0.4% -28.2%
High school diploma 2,833 44.4% 3.0%
College diploma 1,808 28.3% -4.6%
Associate degree 433 6.8% 0.9%
Bachelor's degree 812 12.7% 10.6%
Graduate degree 474 7.4% -16.4%
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

How much people earn in Hillsdale

The average annual household income in Hillsdale was $65,413 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,038, reflecting a +6.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Hillsdale
$65,413/year
-1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Hillsdale
$51,038/year
6.7% year-over-year change

Hillsdale income by age

In Hillsdale, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $51,625. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,500 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,096, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,745 in earnings. Overall, 77.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,096 19.2%
25 - 44 $51,625 10.4%
45 - 64 $66,500 9.8%
Over 65 $42,745 4.1%
Above poverty level
5,104
Below poverty level
1,504
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,104 77.2% -2.8%
Below poverty level 1,504 22.8% 10.3%

Average renter income in Hillsdale

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Hillsdale, their median household income was $29,434 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$29,434
Rent-to-income ratio
33.1%
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 Hillsdale

Workforce and job types in Hillsdale

The job market in Hillsdale is powered by 3,778 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 62.7% are employed by private companies, and 11.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,778
-4.4% year-over-year change
White collar
2,842
Blue collar
936
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,842 75.2% -6.4%
Blue collar 936 24.8% 2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
62.7%
Governmental workers
11.8%
Not for profit companies
16.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 351 9.3% 1.1%
Private companies 2,369 62.7% -4.9%
Governmental workers 445 11.8% -9.7%
Not for profit companies 613 16.2% -1.3%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
-9.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Hillsdale 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

How people get around in Hillsdale

In Hillsdale, the average commute time is 15 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 72.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 16.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
15 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,690 72.4% -3.6%
Motorcycle 2 0% -66.7%
Bicycle 100 2.7% 11.1%
Walk 603 16.2% -4.1%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49227 1,287 516 $53,587 $75,114
49232 2,790 936 $56,324 $70,881
49242 14,750 5,427 $61,029 $78,003
49250 5,653 2,308 $65,744 $83,390
49262 1,258 498 $54,423 $76,774
49266 2,982 1,200 $66,173 $76,803
49271 2,280 944 $56,389 $75,398
49274 3,679 1,533 $58,087 $72,237

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FAQs about Hillsdale demographics 

What is the total population of Hillsdale?

Hillsdale has a total population of 8,002 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Hillsdale?

The gender ratio in Hillsdale is as follows:
  • 47.8% males (3,825 residents)
  • 52.2% females (4,177 residents)

What is the median age in Hillsdale?

The median age in Hillsdale is 29.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Hillsdale?

The age distribution in Hillsdale is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.7% (1,258 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 29.7% (2,374 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.3% (1,862 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 16.8% (1,345 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.5% (1,163 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Hillsdale?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Hillsdale is as follows:
  • White: 90% (7,203 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.4% (112 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (33 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.7% (536 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (118 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.7% of the population in Hillsdale.

How many housing units are there in Hillsdale?

There are 3,073 housing units in Hillsdale, reflecting a -2.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Hillsdale has a total of 2,654 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Hillsdale?

Hillsdale has a median household income of $51,038, representing a +6.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Hillsdale, with a workforce of 3,778 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.2% (2,842 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.8% (936 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (351 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.7% (2,369 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.8% (445 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 16.2% (613 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