Iron River, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,002
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,183/yr
11.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,760
-5.3% year-over-year change

Iron River population

How many people live in Iron River

Iron River is home to 3,002 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.8% of Iron River locals are male, and 52.2% are female.

Total population
3,002
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.8%
1,436
Female
52.2%
1,566
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,436 47.8% 0.3%
Female 1,566 52.2% -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 Iron River is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.4% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.3% of the population, while another 29.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.4%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
23.3%
45 to 64
29.4%
Over 65
18.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 522 17.4% 0.0%
15 to 24 346 11.5% 25.8%
25 to 44 699 23.3% -8.0%
45 to 64 882 29.4% -2.3%
Over 65 553 18.4% 0.7%
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

At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 6.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,976 99.1% -0.4%
Non-citizens 26 0.9% 30.0%
Racial breakdown
White
86.4%
Black or African American
1.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.9%
Other
3.4%
Value Percent
White 2,594 86.4%
Black or African American 56 1.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 41 1.4%
Two or more races 208 6.9%
Other 103 3.4%

Households in Iron River

A peek inside Iron River households

Iron River has 1,314 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.5% are families, while the remaining 44.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,314
-2.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
585
Family households
729
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 585 44.5% 0.0%
Family households 729 55.5% -4.6%
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 Iron River

The housing landscape of Iron River

Iron River's housing consists of 1,760 units, with 79.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
1,760
-5.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,401 79.6%
1 unit, attached 18 1%
2 units 85 4.8%
3 or 4 units 61 3.5%
5 to 9 units 54 3.1%
10 to 19 units 80 4.6%
20 to 49 units 47 2.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 14 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Iron River

In Iron River, the median construction year is 1952. About 31.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 14.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 548 31.1% -21.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 260 14.8% 26.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 475 27% 1.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 77 4.4% -44.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 139 7.9% 17.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 100 5.7% 33.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 91 5.2% 7.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 70 4% 4.5%
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.

Iron River occupancy rates

Out of the 1,314 occupied housing units in Iron River, 70% are owner-occupied, while 30% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 25.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,314
-2.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
394
Owner occupied
920
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 394 30% 4.2%
Owner occupied 920 70% -5.2%
Unoccupied housing units
25.3%
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.

Iron River housing costs

Housing costs in Iron River come to a median of $596 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $486.

Median housing costs per month
$596/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 Iron River
$486/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 Iron River

Iron River education at a glance

About 51.9% of the population in Iron River went to high school, while 17.7% pursued college studies. Another 7.2% earned an associate degree and 18.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
High school diploma 1,217 51.9% -6.0%
College diploma 416 17.7% -2.1%
Associate degree 168 7.2% -29.4%
Bachelor's degree 424 18.1% 18.1%
Graduate degree 121 5.2% 34.4%
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 Iron River

How much people earn in Iron River

The average annual household income in Iron River was $68,917 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +17.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,183, reflecting a +11.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Iron River
$68,917/year
17.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Iron River
$54,183/year
11.1% year-over-year change

Iron River income by age

In Iron River, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $55,227. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,125 overall. Overall, 80.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $55,227 1.4%
45 - 64 $78,125 50.7%
Over 65 $31,304 4.5%
Above poverty level
2,335
Below poverty level
557
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,335 80.7% 2.9%
Below poverty level 557 19.3% -11.2%

Average renter income in Iron River

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Iron River, their median household income was $35,000 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 16.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$35,000
Rent-to-income ratio
16.7%
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 Iron River

Workforce and job types in Iron River

The job market in Iron River is powered by 1,296 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 61.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 38.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.8% run their own businesses, 58.6% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,296
-5.6% year-over-year change
White collar
795
Blue collar
501
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 795 61.3% -0.8%
Blue collar 501 38.7% -12.4%
Employer type
Self employees
10.8%
Private companies
58.6%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
19.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 140 10.8% -15.2%
Private companies 759 58.6% -10.9%
Governmental workers 149 11.5% 18.2%
Not for profit companies 248 19.1% 7.8%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
4.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Iron River stands at 4.7%, 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 Iron River

How people get around in Iron River

Commuting methods vary: 79.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.7% 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 1,010 79.3% -13.8%
Walk 34 2.7% -5.6%
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 Iron River by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49935 5,841 2,699 $57,236 $71,870

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FAQs about Iron River demographics 

What is the total population of Iron River?

Iron River has a total population of 3,002 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Iron River?

The gender ratio in Iron River is as follows:
  • 47.8% males (1,436 residents)
  • 52.2% females (1,566 residents)

What is the median age in Iron River?

The median age in Iron River is 43.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Iron River?

The age distribution in Iron River is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.4% (522 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (346 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.3% (699 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.4% (882 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.4% (553 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Iron River?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Iron River is as follows:
  • White: 86.4% (2,594 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.9% (56 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (41 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.9% (208 residents)
  • Other: 3.4% (103 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.1% of the population in Iron River.

How many housing units are there in Iron River?

There are 1,760 housing units in Iron River, reflecting a -5.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Iron River has a total of 1,314 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Iron River?

Iron River has a median household income of $54,183, representing a +11.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Iron River?

The employment rate is 95.3% in Iron River, with a workforce of 1,296 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 61.3% (795 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 38.7% (501 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.8% (140 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.6% (759 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (149 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 19.1% (248 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