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

Total population
37,693
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,899/yr
4.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
18,870
0.5% year-over-year change

Houghton County population

How many people live in Houghton County

Houghton County is home to 37,693 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 54.7% of Houghton County locals are male, and 45.3% are female.

Total population
37,693
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
54.7%
20,622
Female
45.3%
17,071
Value Percent YoY change
Male 20,622 54.7% 0.6%
Female 17,071 45.3% 0.8%
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 Houghton County is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 16% are children under 15, then 25.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.5% of the population, while another 19.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
16%
15 to 24
25.8%
25 to 44
20.5%
45 to 64
19.7%
Over 65
18%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,048 16% 0.2%
15 to 24 9,715 25.8% 0.8%
25 to 44 7,714 20.5% 1.2%
45 to 64 7,441 19.7% -0.8%
Over 65 6,775 18% 2.1%
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 Houghton County, 94.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.5% of locals are Caucasian, 1.2% are African American and 2.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 35,485 94.1% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 796 2.1% 5.0%
Non-citizens 1,412 3.8% 1.1%
Racial breakdown
White
91.5%
Black or African American
1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.8%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 34,481 91.5%
Black or African American 444 1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 187 0.5%
Asian 1,084 2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 3 0%
Two or more races 1,040 2.8%
Other 454 1.2%

Households in Houghton County

A peek inside Houghton County households

Houghton County has 14,305 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56% are families, while the remaining 44% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,305
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,299
Family households
8,006
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,299 44% -1.4%
Family households 8,006 56% 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 Houghton County

The housing landscape of Houghton County

Houghton County's housing consists of 18,870 units, with 77.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.9% 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
18,870
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,600 77.4%
1 unit, attached 361 1.9%
2 units 508 2.7%
3 or 4 units 630 3.3%
5 to 9 units 720 3.8%
10 to 19 units 373 2%
20 to 49 units 555 2.9%
50 or more units 323 1.7%
Mobile home 792 4.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8 0%
Homes built since 2020
152
44.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Houghton County

In Houghton County, the median construction year is 1960. About 37.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 7,107 37.7% 0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,161 6.2% 1.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,186 6.3% -8.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,506 8% -7.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,349 12.4% 3.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,456 7.7% 1.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,461 7.7% -6.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,369 7.2% 4.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,123 6% 14.7%
Built in 2020 or later 152 0.8% 44.8%
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.

Houghton County occupancy rates

Out of the 14,305 occupied housing units in Houghton County, 71.8% are owner-occupied, while 28.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 24.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,305
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,034
Owner occupied
10,271
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,034 28.2% -1.7%
Owner occupied 10,271 71.8% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
24.2%
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.

Houghton County housing costs

Housing costs in Houghton County come to a median of $776 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $840.

Median housing costs per month
$776/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 Houghton County
$840/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 Houghton County

Houghton County education at a glance

About 29.9% of the population in Houghton County went to high school, while 31.4% pursued college studies. Another 6.7% earned an associate degree and 17.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 434 1.4% -7.1%
High school diploma 9,045 29.9% -2.9%
College diploma 9,505 31.4% 5.9%
Associate degree 2,032 6.7% -4.2%
Bachelor's degree 5,406 17.9% 0.1%
Graduate degree 3,812 12.6% 3.1%
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 Houghton County

How much people earn in Houghton County

The average annual household income in Houghton County was $80,899 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,899, reflecting a +4.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Houghton County
$80,899/year
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Houghton County
$58,899/year
4.1% year-over-year change

Houghton County income by age

In Houghton County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,754. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $85,839 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $30,278, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,668 in earnings. Overall, 83.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $30,278 44.3%
25 - 44 $75,754 2.9%
45 - 64 $85,839 10.1%
Over 65 $48,668 -0.8%
Above poverty level
27,653
Below poverty level
5,467
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 27,653 83.5% -0.9%
Below poverty level 5,467 16.5% 3.4%

Employment in Houghton County

Workforce and job types in Houghton County

The job market in Houghton County is powered by 16,837 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 60% are employed by private companies, and 18.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,837
-0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
13,356
Blue collar
3,481
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,356 79.3% -0.3%
Blue collar 3,481 20.7% -3.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
60%
Governmental workers
18.5%
Not for profit companies
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,425 8.5% -0.1%
Private companies 10,095 60% -0.1%
Governmental workers 3,122 18.5% -6.5%
Not for profit companies 2,195 13% 3.1%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
0.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Houghton County stands at 5.7%, 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 Houghton County

How people get around in Houghton County

In Houghton County, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 73.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 10.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
16 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,359 73.8% -2.4%
Taxicab 16 0.1% -20.0%
Bus or trolleybus 406 2.4% 14.7%
Motorcycle 49 0.3% -21.0%
Bicycle 172 1% -1.1%
Walk 1,750 10.4% 0.1%
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 Houghton County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49905 2,281 785 $77,617 $100,923
49913 7,510 3,138 $53,571 $65,854
49916 2,865 1,267 $74,625 $97,084
49917 326 101 $52,917 $56,091
49921 336 125 $0 $83,862
49922 842 313 $55,313 $101,751
49930 7,405 2,801 $72,314 $91,390
49931 10,475 3,049 $50,408 $78,470
49934 772 357 $47,386 $55,128
49942 55 48 $54,722 $68,208

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FAQs about Houghton County demographics 

What is the total population of Houghton County?

Houghton County has a total population of 37,693 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Houghton County?

The gender ratio in Houghton County is as follows:
  • 54.7% males (20,622 residents)
  • 45.3% females (17,071 residents)

What is the median age in Houghton County?

The median age in Houghton County is 32.2.

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

The age distribution in Houghton County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16% (6,048 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 25.8% (9,715 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.5% (7,714 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.7% (7,441 residents)
  • Over 65: 18% (6,775 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Houghton County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Houghton County is as follows:
  • White: 91.5% (34,481 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.2% (444 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (187 residents)
  • Asian: 2.9% (1,084 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (3 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.8% (1,040 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (454 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.1% of the population in Houghton County.

How many housing units are there in Houghton County?

There are 18,870 housing units in Houghton County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Houghton County has a total of 14,305 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Houghton County?

Houghton County has a median household income of $58,899, representing a +4.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.3% in Houghton County, with a workforce of 16,837 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.3% (13,356 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.7% (3,481 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (1,425 residents)
  • Private companies: 60% (10,095 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.5% (3,122 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13% (2,195 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