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

Total population
66,574
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$75,611/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
24,861
0.5% year-over-year change

Ionia County population

How many people live in Ionia County

Ionia County is home to 66,574 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53.8% of Ionia County locals are male, and 46.2% are female.

Total population
66,574
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53.8%
35,824
Female
46.2%
30,750
Value Percent YoY change
Male 35,824 53.8% -1.2%
Female 30,750 46.2% 0.9%
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 Ionia County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 17% are children under 15, then 12.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.5% of the population, while another 25.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
17%
15 to 24
12.8%
25 to 44
28.5%
45 to 64
25.9%
Over 65
15.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 11,327 17% -2.2%
15 to 24 8,536 12.8% -0.0%
25 to 44 18,946 28.5% -0.9%
45 to 64 17,243 25.9% 0.4%
Over 65 10,522 15.8% 2.2%
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 Ionia County, 98% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.9% of locals are Caucasian, 3.4% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 65,223 98% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 911 1.4% 7.8%
Non-citizens 440 0.7% -2.2%
Racial breakdown
White
86.9%
Black or African American
3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.3%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 57,874 86.9%
Black or African American 2,261 3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 398 0.6%
Asian 304 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 14 0%
Two or more races 4,844 7.3%
Other 879 1.3%

Households in Ionia County

A peek inside Ionia County households

Ionia County has 23,355 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.4% are families, while the remaining 33.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
23,355
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
7,846
Family households
15,509
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,846 33.6% 4.2%
Family households 15,509 66.4% 0.3%
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 Ionia County

The housing landscape of Ionia County

Ionia County's housing consists of 24,861 units, with 74.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.4% 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 11.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
24,861
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 18,513 74.5%
1 unit, attached 338 1.4%
2 units 552 2.2%
3 or 4 units 382 1.5%
5 to 9 units 692 2.8%
10 to 19 units 422 1.7%
20 to 49 units 701 2.8%
50 or more units 338 1.4%
Mobile home 2,914 11.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 0%
Homes built since 2020
470
135.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ionia County

In Ionia County, the median construction year is 1972. About 27.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,762 27.2% 0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,426 5.7% 3.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,881 7.6% -4.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,800 7.2% 3.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,319 13.4% -3.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,213 8.9% -2.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,861 11.5% -4.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,858 11.5% 0.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,271 5.1% 6.0%
Built in 2020 or later 470 1.9% 135.0%
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.

Ionia County occupancy rates

Out of the 23,355 occupied housing units in Ionia County, 77.3% are owner-occupied, while 22.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
23,355
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,303
Owner occupied
18,052
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,303 22.7% 1.4%
Owner occupied 18,052 77.3% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
6.1%
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.

Ionia County housing costs

Housing costs in Ionia County come to a median of $972 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $884.

Median housing costs per month
$972/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 Ionia County
$884/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 Ionia County

Ionia County education at a glance

About 45.8% of the population in Ionia County went to high school, while 25.4% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 12.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,183 2.2% -3.6%
High school diploma 24,098 45.8% 0.7%
College diploma 13,402 25.4% -0.6%
Associate degree 4,863 9.2% -3.8%
Bachelor's degree 6,639 12.6% 2.5%
Graduate degree 2,480 4.7% 4.9%
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 Ionia County

How much people earn in Ionia County

The average annual household income in Ionia County was $88,563 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $75,611, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ionia County
$88,563/year
4.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ionia County
$75,611/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Ionia County income by age

In Ionia County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $87,654. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,873 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,078, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,617 in earnings. Overall, 89.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,078 5.3%
25 - 44 $87,654 3.8%
45 - 64 $80,873 4.2%
Over 65 $52,617 -0.9%
Above poverty level
55,912
Below poverty level
6,679
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 55,912 89.3% 0.9%
Below poverty level 6,679 10.7% -6.9%

Employment in Ionia County

Workforce and job types in Ionia County

The job market in Ionia County is powered by 30,912 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 72.1% are employed by private companies, and 12.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
30,912
1.3% year-over-year change
White collar
20,198
Blue collar
10,714
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 20,198 65.3% 2.9%
Blue collar 10,714 34.7% -1.5%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
72.1%
Governmental workers
12.5%
Not for profit companies
8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,276 7.4% -5.0%
Private companies 22,300 72.1% 2.4%
Governmental workers 3,851 12.5% 1.6%
Not for profit companies 2,485 8% -2.1%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
-19.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ionia County stands at 3.9%, 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 Ionia County

How people get around in Ionia County

Commuting methods vary: 87.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% 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 26,652 87.2% 1.1%
Bus or trolleybus 355 1.2% -15.7%
Subway or elevated 3 0% N/A
Motorcycle 17 0.1% -22.7%
Bicycle 46 0.2% -2.1%
Walk 564 1.8% -14.0%
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 Ionia County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48809 11,038 4,172 $71,071 $90,219
48815 2,364 826 $85,962 $106,933
48834 2,139 828 $53,958 $69,231
48845 1,218 361 $86,042 $88,448
48846 21,613 7,081 $66,742 $75,632
48849 5,723 1,951 $80,313 $106,846
48851 2,462 838 $65,726 $79,383
48860 1,339 504 $50,600 $64,794
48865 1,884 671 $70,039 $96,309
48870 194 75 $34,290 $47,916

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FAQs about Ionia County demographics 

What is the total population of Ionia County?

Ionia County has a total population of 66,574 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Ionia County?

The gender ratio in Ionia County is as follows:
  • 53.8% males (35,824 residents)
  • 46.2% females (30,750 residents)

What is the median age in Ionia County?

The median age in Ionia County is 39.1.

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

The age distribution in Ionia County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17% (11,327 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.8% (8,536 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.5% (18,946 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.9% (17,243 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.8% (10,522 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ionia County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ionia County is as follows:
  • White: 86.9% (57,874 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.4% (2,261 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (398 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (304 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (14 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.3% (4,844 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (879 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98% of the population in Ionia County.

How many housing units are there in Ionia County?

There are 24,861 housing units in Ionia 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 Ionia County and what is the average household size?

Ionia County has a total of 23,355 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ionia County?

Ionia County has a median household income of $75,611, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.1% in Ionia County, with a workforce of 30,912 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.3% (20,198 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.7% (10,714 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (2,276 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.1% (22,300 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.5% (3,851 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8% (2,485 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