Houghton, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,474
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$43,456/yr
22.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,441
-2.4% year-over-year change

Houghton population

How many people live in Houghton

Houghton is home to 8,474 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 62% of Houghton locals are male, and 38% are female.

Total population
8,474
1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
62%
5,250
Female
38%
3,224
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,250 62% 6.8%
Female 3,224 38% -5.8%
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 is 22, with the population distributed as follows: about 6.8% are children under 15, then 58.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18.2% of the population, while another 8.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 7.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
21.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
6.8%
15 to 24
58.8%
25 to 44
18.2%
45 to 64
8.9%
Over 65
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 575 6.8% -13.3%
15 to 24 4,982 58.8% 7.2%
25 to 44 1,543 18.2% 7.4%
45 to 64 757 8.9% -15.4%
Over 65 617 7.3% -11.7%
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 Houghton, 83.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.2% of locals are Caucasian, 2.7% are African American and 9.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
83.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
13.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,104 83.8% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 207 2.4% 13.1%
Non-citizens 1,163 13.7% 7.0%
Racial breakdown
White
80.2%
Black or African American
2.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
9.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.8%
Other
3%
Value Percent
White 6,794 80.2%
Black or African American 226 2.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 106 1.2%
Asian 771 9.1%
Two or more races 319 3.8%
Other 258 3%

Households in Houghton

A peek inside Houghton households

Houghton has 2,251 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 36.6% are families, while the remaining 63.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,251
-2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,426
Family households
825
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,426 63.4% 4.2%
Family households 825 36.6% -11.1%
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

The housing landscape of Houghton

Houghton's housing consists of 2,441 units, with 46.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% 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 0.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,441
-2.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,135 46.5%
1 unit, attached 61 2.5%
2 units 55 2.2%
3 or 4 units 309 12.7%
5 to 9 units 218 8.9%
10 to 19 units 131 5.4%
20 to 49 units 281 11.5%
50 or more units 229 9.4%
Mobile home 22 0.9%
Homes built since 2020
24
4.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Houghton

In Houghton, the median construction year is 1977. About 18.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15.8% 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 446 18.3% -12.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 59 2.4% -3.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 64 2.6% 100.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 401 16.4% 7.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 357 14.6% -8.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 329 13.5% 20.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 157 6.4% -32.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 218 8.9% -14.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 386 15.8% 9.7%
Built in 2020 or later 24 1% 4.3%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 2,251 occupied housing units in Houghton, 36.9% are owner-occupied, while 63.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,251
-2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,421
Owner occupied
830
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,421 63.1% -0.6%
Owner occupied 830 36.9% -4.3%
Unoccupied housing units
7.8%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Houghton come to a median of $983 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $978.

Median housing costs per month
$983/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
$978/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

Houghton education at a glance

About 11.4% of the population in Houghton went to high school, while 52% pursued college studies. Another 3.7% earned an associate degree and 13.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 46 0.6% -52.1%
High school diploma 882 11.4% -7.1%
College diploma 4,001 52% 11.6%
Associate degree 287 3.7% -4.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,060 13.8% -3.5%
Graduate degree 1,425 18.5% 2.2%
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

How much people earn in Houghton

The average annual household income in Houghton was $76,517 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 $43,456, reflecting a +22.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Houghton
$76,517/year
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Houghton
$43,456/year
22.7% year-over-year change

Houghton income by age

In Houghton, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $51,544. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $155,278 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $18,408, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,985 in earnings. Overall, 59.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $18,408 17.2%
25 - 44 $51,544 14.2%
45 - 64 $155,278 N/A
Over 65 $56,985 -18.0%
Above poverty level
2,928
Below poverty level
1,965
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,928 59.8% -10.9%
Below poverty level 1,965 40.2% 10.9%

Average renter income in Houghton

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Houghton, their median household income was $17,809 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 65.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$17,809
Rent-to-income ratio
65.9%
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 Houghton

Workforce and job types in Houghton

The job market in Houghton is powered by 3,735 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 88.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 3.9% run their own businesses, 58.4% are employed by private companies, and 26.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,735
2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
3,311
Blue collar
424
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,311 88.6% 0.9%
Blue collar 424 11.4% 16.5%
Employer type
Self employees
3.9%
Private companies
58.4%
Governmental workers
26.3%
Not for profit companies
11.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 147 3.9% -7.0%
Private companies 2,181 58.4% 8.0%
Governmental workers 983 26.3% -6.5%
Not for profit companies 424 11.4% 1.4%
Unemployment rate
10.3%
-2.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Houghton stands at 10.3%, 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

How people get around in Houghton

In Houghton, the average commute time is 11 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 49.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 28.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
11 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,851 49.5% -0.9%
Bus or trolleybus 353 9.4% 12.4%
Bicycle 37 1% -17.8%
Walk 1,074 28.7% 3.4%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49931 10,475 3,049 $50,408 $78,470

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FAQs about Houghton demographics 

What is the total population of Houghton?

Houghton has a total population of 8,474 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 +1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Houghton?

The gender ratio in Houghton is as follows:
  • 62% males (5,250 residents)
  • 38% females (3,224 residents)

What is the median age in Houghton?

The median age in Houghton is 21.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Houghton?

The age distribution in Houghton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 6.8% (575 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 58.8% (4,982 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18.2% (1,543 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 8.9% (757 residents)
  • Over 65: 7.3% (617 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Houghton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Houghton is as follows:
  • White: 80.2% (6,794 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.7% (226 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (106 residents)
  • Asian: 9.1% (771 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.8% (319 residents)
  • Other: 3% (258 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 83.8% of the population in Houghton.

How many housing units are there in Houghton?

There are 2,441 housing units in Houghton, reflecting a -2.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Houghton has a total of 2,251 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Houghton?

Houghton has a median household income of $43,456, representing a +22.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 89.7% in Houghton, with a workforce of 3,735 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88.6% (3,311 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11.4% (424 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 3.9% (147 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.4% (2,181 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 26.3% (983 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.4% (424 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