Kalkaska, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,539
7.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,143/yr
33.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,191
8.0% year-over-year change

Kalkaska population

How many people live in Kalkaska

Kalkaska is home to 2,539 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Kalkaska locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
2,539
7.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
1,235
Female
51.4%
1,304
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,235 48.6% 13.7%
Female 1,304 51.4% 1.6%
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 is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.1% are children under 15, then 9.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.1% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.1%
15 to 24
9.8%
25 to 44
27.1%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
21.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 409 16.1% -7.5%
15 to 24 250 9.8% -8.4%
25 to 44 687 27.1% 3.6%
45 to 64 649 25.6% 21.5%
Over 65 544 21.4% 18.8%
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, 95.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.7% of locals are Caucasian, 3% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.1%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,417 95.2% 7.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 79 3.1% 0.0%
Non-citizens 43 1.7% -2.3%
Racial breakdown
White
87.7%
Black or African American
3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.2%
Other
2%
Value Percent
White 2,226 87.7%
Black or African American 76 3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 7 0.3%
Asian 21 0.8%
Two or more races 158 6.2%
Other 51 2%

Households in Kalkaska

A peek inside Kalkaska households

Kalkaska has 1,118 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.9% are families, while the remaining 44.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,118
8.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
493
Family households
625
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 493 44.1% -4.3%
Family households 625 55.9% 20.4%
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 Kalkaska

The housing landscape of Kalkaska

Kalkaska's housing consists of 1,191 units, with 67.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,191
8.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 803 67.4%
2 units 16 1.3%
3 or 4 units 14 1.2%
5 to 9 units 141 11.8%
10 to 19 units 66 5.5%
20 to 49 units 61 5.1%
50 or more units 6 0.5%
Mobile home 84 7%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kalkaska

In Kalkaska, the median construction year is 1967. About 17.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.1% 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 204 17.1% 12.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 61 5.1% 510.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 236 19.8% 19.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 130 10.9% 5.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 226 19% -5.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 209 17.6% -14.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 48 4% 84.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 69 5.8% -16.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8 0.7% N/A
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 1,118 occupied housing units in Kalkaska, 66.8% are owner-occupied, while 33.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,118
8.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
371
Owner occupied
747
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 371 33.2% -10.2%
Owner occupied 747 66.8% 20.3%
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.

Kalkaska housing costs

Housing costs in Kalkaska come to a median of $684 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $633.

Median housing costs per month
$684/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
$633/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

Kalkaska education at a glance

About 48.8% of the population in Kalkaska went to high school, while 20.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.4% earned an associate degree and 12.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 73 3.7% 49.0%
High school diploma 972 48.8% 1.0%
College diploma 410 20.6% 11.4%
Associate degree 188 9.4% 80.8%
Bachelor's degree 252 12.6% 33.3%
Graduate degree 98 4.9% -29.5%
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

How much people earn in Kalkaska

The average annual household income in Kalkaska was $70,218 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +30.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,143, reflecting a +33% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kalkaska
$70,218/year
30.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kalkaska
$57,143/year
33.0% year-over-year change

Kalkaska income by age

In Kalkaska, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,396. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,787 overall. Overall, 86.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $62,396 15.3%
45 - 64 $78,787 74.1%
Over 65 $45,536 6.2%
Above poverty level
2,079
Below poverty level
321
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,079 86.6% 14.4%
Below poverty level 321 13.4% -30.5%

Average renter income in Kalkaska

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Kalkaska, their median household income was $24,856 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,856
Rent-to-income ratio
30.6%
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 Kalkaska

Workforce and job types in Kalkaska

The job market in Kalkaska is powered by 1,098 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.7% run their own businesses, 74% are employed by private companies, and 10% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,098
18.2% year-over-year change
White collar
690
Blue collar
408
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 690 62.8% 16.2%
Blue collar 408 37.2% 21.8%
Employer type
Self employees
6.7%
Private companies
74%
Governmental workers
10%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 74 6.7% 25.4%
Private companies 813 74% 18.5%
Governmental workers 110 10% 50.7%
Not for profit companies 101 9.2% -9.0%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
-13.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kalkaska stands at 3.4%, 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 Kalkaska

How people get around in Kalkaska

Commuting methods vary: 93.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.1% 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 1,010 93.4% 19.1%
Walk 55 5.1% 83.3%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49646 8,852 3,979 $64,863 $73,815

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FAQs about Kalkaska demographics 

What is the total population of Kalkaska?

Kalkaska has a total population of 2,539 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 +7.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kalkaska?

The gender ratio in Kalkaska is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (1,235 residents)
  • 51.4% females (1,304 residents)

What is the median age in Kalkaska?

The median age in Kalkaska is 43.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kalkaska?

The age distribution in Kalkaska is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.1% (409 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.8% (250 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.1% (687 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (649 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.4% (544 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kalkaska?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kalkaska is as follows:
  • White: 87.7% (2,226 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3% (76 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (7 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (21 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.2% (158 residents)
  • Other: 2% (51 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.2% of the population in Kalkaska.

How many housing units are there in Kalkaska?

There are 1,191 housing units in Kalkaska, reflecting a +8.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kalkaska has a total of 1,118 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kalkaska?

Kalkaska has a median household income of $57,143, representing a +33.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.6% in Kalkaska, with a workforce of 1,098 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62.8% (690 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37.2% (408 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.7% (74 residents)
  • Private companies: 74% (813 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10% (110 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (101 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