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

Total population
283,913
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,526/yr
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
126,232
0.3% year-over-year change

Ingham County population

How many people live in Ingham County

Ingham County is home to 283,913 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Ingham County locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
283,913
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
138,738
Female
51.1%
145,175
Value Percent YoY change
Male 138,738 48.9% 0.5%
Female 145,175 51.1% 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 Ingham County is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 21.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.2% of the population, while another 21% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
21.8%
25 to 44
26.2%
45 to 64
21%
Over 65
14.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 46,003 16.2% -0.2%
15 to 24 61,882 21.8% 1.4%
25 to 44 74,248 26.2% 1.1%
45 to 64 59,570 21% -1.3%
Over 65 42,210 14.9% 2.7%
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 Ingham County, 89.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 68.7% of locals are Caucasian, 11.4% are African American and 6.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.2%
Non-citizens
5.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 254,595 89.7% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 14,683 5.2% 10.7%
Non-citizens 14,635 5.2% -3.7%
Racial breakdown
White
68.7%
Black or African American
11.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
6.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.6%
Other
2.5%
Value Percent
White 194,933 68.7%
Black or African American 32,386 11.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,542 0.5%
Asian 17,807 6.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 43 0%
Two or more races 30,214 10.6%
Other 6,988 2.5%

Households in Ingham County

A peek inside Ingham County households

Ingham County has 117,096 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 52.1% are families, while the remaining 47.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
117,096
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
56,114
Family households
60,982
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 56,114 47.9% 1.7%
Family households 60,982 52.1% -0.7%
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 Ingham County

The housing landscape of Ingham County

Ingham County's housing consists of 126,232 units, with 60.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.7% 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 2.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
126,232
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 76,388 60.5%
1 unit, attached 5,937 4.7%
2 units 3,169 2.5%
3 or 4 units 4,442 3.5%
5 to 9 units 8,071 6.4%
10 to 19 units 11,114 8.8%
20 to 49 units 5,861 4.6%
50 or more units 7,955 6.3%
Mobile home 3,292 2.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 3 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,022
79.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ingham County

In Ingham County, the median construction year is 1971. About 16.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.4% 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 20,821 16.5% 1.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 7,963 6.3% 1.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 16,522 13.1% 0.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 16,352 13% -2.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 20,209 16% 1.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 13,379 10.6% 4.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11,918 9.4% -6.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 11,176 8.8% -2.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,870 5.4% 4.0%
Built in 2020 or later 1,022 0.8% 79.9%
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.

Ingham County occupancy rates

Out of the 117,096 occupied housing units in Ingham County, 59.5% are owner-occupied, while 40.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
117,096
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
47,469
Owner occupied
69,627
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 47,469 40.5% 0.7%
Owner occupied 69,627 59.5% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
7.2%
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.

Ingham County housing costs

Housing costs in Ingham County come to a median of $1,131 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,084.

Median housing costs per month
$1,131/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 Ingham County
$1,084/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 Ingham County

Ingham County education at a glance

About 27.9% of the population in Ingham County went to high school, while 27.3% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 20.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,856 1.7% -2.8%
High school diploma 63,566 27.9% 3.2%
College diploma 62,226 27.3% -1.9%
Associate degree 19,243 8.4% 5.2%
Bachelor's degree 46,971 20.6% 2.5%
Graduate degree 32,292 14.2% -3.0%
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 Ingham County

How much people earn in Ingham County

The average annual household income in Ingham County was $89,065 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,526, reflecting a +1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ingham County
$89,065/year
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ingham County
$65,526/year
1.8% year-over-year change

Ingham County income by age

In Ingham County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,896. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,963 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $27,484, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $58,213 in earnings. Overall, 83.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $27,484 -0.4%
25 - 44 $71,896 4.0%
45 - 64 $86,963 3.6%
Over 65 $58,213 -1.0%
Above poverty level
220,238
Below poverty level
44,021
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 220,238 83.3% 0.4%
Below poverty level 44,021 16.7% 2.4%

Employment in Ingham County

Workforce and job types in Ingham County

The job market in Ingham County is powered by 141,447 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.4% run their own businesses, 59.2% are employed by private companies, and 21.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
141,447
0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
113,928
Blue collar
27,519
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 113,928 80.5% -0.1%
Blue collar 27,519 19.5% 4.3%
Employer type
Self employees
6.4%
Private companies
59.2%
Governmental workers
21.9%
Not for profit companies
12.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 9,121 6.4% 2.9%
Private companies 83,811 59.2% 0.9%
Governmental workers 30,922 21.9% -0.9%
Not for profit companies 17,593 12.4% 1.4%
Unemployment rate
6.2%
-1.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ingham County stands at 6.2%, 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 Ingham County

How people get around in Ingham County

Commuting methods vary: 74.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.1% 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 102,718 74.1% -1.5%
Taxicab 106 0.1% 5.0%
Bus or trolleybus 3,316 2.4% -2.7%
Railroad 9 0% -30.8%
Motorcycle 32 0% -73.3%
Bicycle 1,793 1.3% 25.5%
Walk 5,641 4.1% -6.4%
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 Ingham County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48892 4,715 1,850 $89,125 $110,226
48819 2,550 934 $110,833 $111,841
48823 50,034 21,293 $52,018 $91,595
48825 11,295 7 $0 $0
48827 15,831 6,207 $78,257 $90,990
48840 12,386 6,155 $73,408 $98,889
48842 21,945 9,394 $88,340 $98,101
48854 19,529 7,487 $94,716 $107,121
48864 23,901 8,911 $121,103 $168,990
48872 6,142 2,626 $79,333 $93,615

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FAQs about Ingham County demographics 

What is the total population of Ingham County?

Ingham County has a total population of 283,913 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 Ingham County?

The gender ratio in Ingham County is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (138,738 residents)
  • 51.1% females (145,175 residents)

What is the median age in Ingham County?

The median age in Ingham County is 33.3.

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

The age distribution in Ingham County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (46,003 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 21.8% (61,882 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.2% (74,248 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21% (59,570 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.9% (42,210 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ingham County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ingham County is as follows:
  • White: 68.7% (194,933 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11.4% (32,386 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (1,542 residents)
  • Asian: 6.3% (17,807 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (43 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.6% (30,214 residents)
  • Other: 2.5% (6,988 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.7% of the population in Ingham County.

How many housing units are there in Ingham County?

There are 126,232 housing units in Ingham County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ingham County has a total of 117,096 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ingham County?

Ingham County has a median household income of $65,526, representing a +1.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.8% in Ingham County, with a workforce of 141,447 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.5% (113,928 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.5% (27,519 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.4% (9,121 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.2% (83,811 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.9% (30,922 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.4% (17,593 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