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

Total population
64,565
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,237/yr
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
28,660
0.2% year-over-year change

Isabella County population

How many people live in Isabella County

Isabella County is home to 64,565 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Isabella County locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
64,565
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
31,404
Female
51.4%
33,161
Value Percent YoY change
Male 31,404 48.6% -0.2%
Female 33,161 51.4% 0.5%
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 Isabella County is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.6% are children under 15, then 28.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.5% of the population, while another 20% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14% are 65 or older.

Median age
30.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.6%
15 to 24
28.9%
25 to 44
22.5%
45 to 64
20%
Over 65
14%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,395 14.6% 0.2%
15 to 24 18,681 28.9% -0.7%
25 to 44 14,525 22.5% 0.8%
45 to 64 12,942 20% -0.8%
Over 65 9,022 14% 2.3%
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 Isabella County, 96% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 84.5% of locals are Caucasian, 2.5% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.8%
Non-citizens
2.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 61,958 96% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,142 1.8% -1.8%
Non-citizens 1,465 2.3% 17.0%
Racial breakdown
White
84.5%
Black or African American
2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.7%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 54,561 84.5%
Black or African American 1,616 2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,934 3%
Asian 1,091 1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 14 0%
Two or more races 4,338 6.7%
Other 1,011 1.6%

Households in Isabella County

A peek inside Isabella County households

Isabella County has 24,914 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.3% are families, while the remaining 46.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
24,914
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
11,633
Family households
13,281
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 11,633 46.7% 2.7%
Family households 13,281 53.3% -2.4%
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 Isabella County

The housing landscape of Isabella County

Isabella County's housing consists of 28,660 units, with 59.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.8% 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 8.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
28,660
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,160 59.9%
1 unit, attached 1,090 3.8%
2 units 691 2.4%
3 or 4 units 1,378 4.8%
5 to 9 units 2,037 7.1%
10 to 19 units 1,762 6.2%
20 to 49 units 903 3.2%
50 or more units 1,067 3.7%
Mobile home 2,500 8.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 72 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
292
133.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Isabella County

In Isabella County, the median construction year is 1983. About 12.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.8% 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 3,498 12.2% 6.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 742 2.6% -17.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,723 6% -11.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,687 9.4% 2.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,720 16.5% 3.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,301 11.5% -6.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,272 18.4% -2.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,778 16.7% 4.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,647 5.8% -2.6%
Built in 2020 or later 292 1% 133.6%
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.

Isabella County occupancy rates

Out of the 24,914 occupied housing units in Isabella County, 61.8% are owner-occupied, while 38.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
24,914
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
9,508
Owner occupied
15,406
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 9,508 38.2% -1.6%
Owner occupied 15,406 61.8% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
13.1%
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.

Isabella County housing costs

Housing costs in Isabella County come to a median of $932 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $913.

Median housing costs per month
$932/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 Isabella County
$913/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 Isabella County

Isabella County education at a glance

About 33.4% of the population in Isabella County went to high school, while 30.3% pursued college studies. Another 8.6% earned an associate degree and 15.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,315 2.5% 5.2%
High school diploma 17,732 33.4% -2.3%
College diploma 16,088 30.3% -1.0%
Associate degree 4,554 8.6% 3.0%
Bachelor's degree 8,286 15.6% 5.5%
Graduate degree 5,119 9.6% -0.3%
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 Isabella County

How much people earn in Isabella County

The average annual household income in Isabella County was $74,216 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,237, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Isabella County
$74,216/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Isabella County
$55,237/year
2.8% year-over-year change

Isabella County income by age

In Isabella County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,722. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,228 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $28,597, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,176 in earnings. Overall, 78.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $28,597 18.1%
25 - 44 $65,722 7.2%
45 - 64 $77,228 -2.0%
Over 65 $50,176 2.1%
Above poverty level
45,841
Below poverty level
12,755
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 45,841 78.2% 1.8%
Below poverty level 12,755 21.8% -5.3%

Employment in Isabella County

Workforce and job types in Isabella County

The job market in Isabella County is powered by 31,758 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.3% run their own businesses, 63% are employed by private companies, and 18% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
31,758
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
24,138
Blue collar
7,620
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 24,138 76% 0.6%
Blue collar 7,620 24% -0.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.3%
Private companies
63%
Governmental workers
18%
Not for profit companies
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,636 8.3% 9.3%
Private companies 20,019 63% -2.7%
Governmental workers 5,704 18% 3.2%
Not for profit companies 3,399 10.7% 9.3%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
-6.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Isabella County stands at 6.4%, 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 Isabella County

How people get around in Isabella County

Commuting methods vary: 83.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.7% 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 25,586 83.6% -1.9%
Taxicab 6 0% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 201 0.7% 48.9%
Subway or elevated 29 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 7 0% 0.0%
Bicycle 205 0.7% -2.8%
Walk 2,043 6.7% 0.5%
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 Isabella County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48617 9,403 3,314 $58,321 $78,198
48618 5,197 2,248 $61,968 $79,067
48622 6,345 2,490 $56,804 $73,003
48632 5,268 2,019 $57,036 $76,668
48893 5,921 2,192 $73,108 $91,180
48896 226 64 $136,136 $114,777
48858 42,226 17,458 $51,267 $70,554
48877 1,962 815 $64,653 $117,488
48878 1,240 561 $57,656 $82,981
48883 7,292 2,735 $65,223 $78,409

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FAQs about Isabella County demographics 

What is the total population of Isabella County?

Isabella County has a total population of 64,565 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Isabella County?

The gender ratio in Isabella County is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (31,404 residents)
  • 51.4% females (33,161 residents)

What is the median age in Isabella County?

The median age in Isabella County is 30.1.

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

The age distribution in Isabella County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.6% (9,395 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 28.9% (18,681 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.5% (14,525 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20% (12,942 residents)
  • Over 65: 14% (9,022 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Isabella County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Isabella County is as follows:
  • White: 84.5% (54,561 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.5% (1,616 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3% (1,934 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (1,091 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (14 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.7% (4,338 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (1,011 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96% of the population in Isabella County.

How many housing units are there in Isabella County?

There are 28,660 housing units in Isabella County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Isabella County has a total of 24,914 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Isabella County?

Isabella County has a median household income of $55,237, representing a +2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.6% in Isabella County, with a workforce of 31,758 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76% (24,138 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24% (7,620 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.3% (2,636 residents)
  • Private companies: 63% (20,019 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18% (5,704 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.7% (3,399 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