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

Total population
18,239
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,578/yr
13.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,690
0.3% year-over-year change

Kalkaska County population

How many people live in Kalkaska County

Kalkaska County is home to 18,239 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.9% of Kalkaska County locals are male, and 49.1% are female.

Total population
18,239
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.9%
9,291
Female
49.1%
8,948
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,291 50.9% 0.8%
Female 8,948 49.1% 0.6%
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 Kalkaska County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.4% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 27.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.4%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
27.8%
Over 65
21.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,992 16.4% -1.2%
15 to 24 1,811 9.9% -2.2%
25 to 44 4,407 24.2% 2.9%
45 to 64 5,068 27.8% -0.7%
Over 65 3,961 21.7% 3.0%
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 Kalkaska County, 98% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 93% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,874 98% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 288 1.6% 19.5%
Non-citizens 77 0.4% -4.9%
Racial breakdown
White
93%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.5%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 16,970 93%
Black or African American 148 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 38 0.2%
Asian 91 0.5%
Two or more races 821 4.5%
Other 171 0.9%

Households in Kalkaska County

A peek inside Kalkaska County households

Kalkaska County has 7,789 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.8% are families, while the remaining 36.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,789
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,822
Family households
4,967
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,822 36.2% -6.9%
Family households 4,967 63.8% 6.0%
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 Kalkaska County

The housing landscape of Kalkaska County

Kalkaska County's housing consists of 11,690 units, with 82% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.3% 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 14.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,690
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,590 82%
1 unit, attached 32 0.3%
2 units 35 0.3%
3 or 4 units 35 0.3%
5 to 9 units 163 1.4%
10 to 19 units 79 0.7%
20 to 49 units 63 0.5%
50 or more units 6 0%
Mobile home 1,673 14.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 14 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
99
67.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kalkaska County

In Kalkaska County, the median construction year is 1980. About 6.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 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 735 6.3% 3.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 358 3.1% -5.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 940 8% 3.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,617 13.8% 12.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,293 19.6% -3.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,745 14.9% -4.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,789 15.3% -1.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,645 14.1% 0.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 469 4% -7.3%
Built in 2020 or later 99 0.8% 67.8%
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.

Kalkaska County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,789 occupied housing units in Kalkaska County, 88.2% are owner-occupied, while 11.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 33.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,789
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
921
Owner occupied
6,868
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 921 11.8% -4.9%
Owner occupied 6,868 88.2% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
33.4%
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.

Kalkaska County housing costs

Housing costs in Kalkaska County come to a median of $895 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $853.

Median housing costs per month
$895/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 Kalkaska County
$853/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 Kalkaska County

Kalkaska County education at a glance

About 46.5% of the population in Kalkaska County went to high school, while 24.5% pursued college studies. Another 8.7% earned an associate degree and 11.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 362 2.5% 6.5%
High school diploma 6,776 46.5% 1.3%
College diploma 3,575 24.5% -2.3%
Associate degree 1,262 8.7% -0.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,668 11.4% 8.3%
Graduate degree 925 6.4% -0.9%
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 Kalkaska County

How much people earn in Kalkaska County

The average annual household income in Kalkaska County was $81,688 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,578, reflecting a +13.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kalkaska County
$81,688/year
7.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kalkaska County
$68,578/year
13.6% year-over-year change

Kalkaska County income by age

In Kalkaska County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $82,250. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,395 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $26,942, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,890 in earnings. Overall, 87.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $26,942 1.4%
25 - 44 $82,250 7.5%
45 - 64 $76,395 12.3%
Over 65 $51,890 7.3%
Above poverty level
15,727
Below poverty level
2,188
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,727 87.8% 2.6%
Below poverty level 2,188 12.2% -12.6%

Employment in Kalkaska County

Workforce and job types in Kalkaska County

The job market in Kalkaska County is powered by 7,951 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.6% run their own businesses, 69% are employed by private companies, and 11.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,951
2.8% year-over-year change
White collar
5,379
Blue collar
2,572
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,379 67.6% 1.9%
Blue collar 2,572 32.4% 4.7%
Employer type
Self employees
9.6%
Private companies
69%
Governmental workers
11.7%
Not for profit companies
9.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 763 9.6% 0.3%
Private companies 5,486 69% 1.3%
Governmental workers 932 11.7% 10.7%
Not for profit companies 770 9.7% 6.8%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-8.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kalkaska County stands at 3.8%, 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 Kalkaska County

How people get around in Kalkaska County

Commuting methods vary: 90.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% 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 7,094 90.6% 2.6%
Taxicab 4 0% 0.0%
Ferryboat 2 0% 100.0%
Motorcycle 3 0% -50.0%
Walk 83 1.1% 10.7%
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 Kalkaska County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49646 8,852 3,979 $64,863 $73,815
49659 7,140 3,022 $62,308 $69,977
49676 3,620 1,579 $75,781 $100,471
49680 2,206 735 $77,216 $82,119
49690 6,657 2,620 $108,712 $137,895
49612 1,220 589 $85,156 $112,434
49633 3,410 1,588 $73,681 $90,826

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FAQs about Kalkaska County demographics 

What is the total population of Kalkaska County?

Kalkaska County has a total population of 18,239 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 Kalkaska County?

The gender ratio in Kalkaska County is as follows:
  • 50.9% males (9,291 residents)
  • 49.1% females (8,948 residents)

What is the median age in Kalkaska County?

The median age in Kalkaska County is 44.4.

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

The age distribution in Kalkaska County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.4% (2,992 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (1,811 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (4,407 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.8% (5,068 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.7% (3,961 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kalkaska County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kalkaska County is as follows:
  • White: 93% (16,970 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (148 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (38 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (91 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.5% (821 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (171 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Kalkaska County?

There are 11,690 housing units in Kalkaska 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 Kalkaska County and what is the average household size?

Kalkaska County has a total of 7,789 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kalkaska County?

Kalkaska County has a median household income of $68,578, representing a +13.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Kalkaska County, with a workforce of 7,951 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.6% (5,379 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.4% (2,572 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.6% (763 residents)
  • Private companies: 69% (5,486 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.7% (932 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.7% (770 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