Kentwood, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
54,296
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,373/yr
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
22,322
-0.6% year-over-year change

Kentwood population

How many people live in Kentwood

Kentwood is home to 54,296 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Kentwood locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
54,296
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
26,506
Female
51.2%
27,790
Value Percent YoY change
Male 26,506 48.8% -0.3%
Female 27,790 51.2% 1.0%
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 Kentwood is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.8% are children under 15, then 12.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.4% of the population, while another 21.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.8%
15 to 24
12.6%
25 to 44
31.4%
45 to 64
21.5%
Over 65
14.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 10,732 19.8% -7.3%
15 to 24 6,858 12.6% 10.6%
25 to 44 17,050 31.4% 2.7%
45 to 64 11,691 21.5% -1.8%
Over 65 7,965 14.7% 1.7%
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

In Kentwood, 79.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 53.8% of locals are Caucasian, 22.5% are African American and 10% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
79.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.6%
Non-citizens
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 43,169 79.5% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,783 10.6% 7.3%
Non-citizens 5,344 9.8% 4.9%
Racial breakdown
White
53.8%
Black or African American
22.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
10%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.5%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 29,199 53.8%
Black or African American 12,214 22.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 223 0.4%
Asian 5,422 10%
Two or more races 5,691 10.5%
Other 1,547 2.8%

Households in Kentwood

A peek inside Kentwood households

Kentwood has 21,245 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 60.3% are families, while the remaining 39.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
21,245
-1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
8,429
Family households
12,816
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,429 39.7% 0.1%
Family households 12,816 60.3% -2.9%
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 Kentwood

The housing landscape of Kentwood

Kentwood's housing consists of 22,322 units, with 47.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 12.3% 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 3.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
22,322
-0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,614 47.6%
1 unit, attached 2,741 12.3%
2 units 634 2.8%
3 or 4 units 500 2.2%
5 to 9 units 1,713 7.7%
10 to 19 units 3,259 14.6%
20 to 49 units 975 4.4%
50 or more units 1,104 5%
Mobile home 782 3.5%
Homes built since 2020
300
76.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kentwood

In Kentwood, the median construction year is 1983. About 2.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 508 2.3% 10.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 658 3% -19.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,760 7.9% 18.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,506 11.2% -4.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,603 20.6% -1.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,015 18% 4.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,330 14.9% -6.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,160 14.2% -5.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,482 6.6% 1.2%
Built in 2020 or later 300 1.3% 76.5%
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.

Kentwood occupancy rates

Out of the 21,245 occupied housing units in Kentwood, 61.4% are owner-occupied, while 38.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
21,245
-1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,212
Owner occupied
13,033
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,212 38.6% -4.1%
Owner occupied 13,033 61.4% -0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
4.8%
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.

Kentwood housing costs

Housing costs in Kentwood come to a median of $1,239 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,260.

Median housing costs per month
$1,239/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 Kentwood
$1,260/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 Kentwood

Kentwood education at a glance

About 31.6% of the population in Kentwood went to high school, while 20.8% pursued college studies. Another 8.1% earned an associate degree and 23.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,397 5.8% 20.7%
High school diploma 13,168 31.6% 0.9%
College diploma 8,655 20.8% -2.1%
Associate degree 3,388 8.1% -4.7%
Bachelor's degree 9,727 23.4% 5.4%
Graduate degree 4,304 10.3% 2.9%
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 Kentwood

How much people earn in Kentwood

The average annual household income in Kentwood was $90,940 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,373, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kentwood
$90,940/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kentwood
$74,373/year
1.0% year-over-year change

Kentwood income by age

In Kentwood, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,016. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $99,705 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,705, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,263 in earnings. Overall, 89.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,705 2.0%
25 - 44 $81,016 0.5%
45 - 64 $99,705 11.1%
Over 65 $47,263 -1.2%
Above poverty level
47,969
Below poverty level
5,560
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 47,969 89.6% -0.2%
Below poverty level 5,560 10.4% 10.8%

Average renter income in Kentwood

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Kentwood, their median household income was $46,838 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$46,838
Rent-to-income ratio
32.3%
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 Kentwood

Workforce and job types in Kentwood

The job market in Kentwood is powered by 28,549 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.8% run their own businesses, 73.9% are employed by private companies, and 8.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
28,549
1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
20,152
Blue collar
8,397
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 20,152 70.6% 2.4%
Blue collar 8,397 29.4% -0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
5.8%
Private companies
73.9%
Governmental workers
8.7%
Not for profit companies
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,645 5.8% 7.4%
Private companies 21,093 73.9% 1.5%
Governmental workers 2,488 8.7% 3.9%
Not for profit companies 3,323 11.6% -3.3%
Unemployment rate
4.5%
-6.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kentwood stands at 4.5%, 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 Kentwood

How people get around in Kentwood

In Kentwood, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
-1.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 23,506 84.4% -0.3%
Taxicab 113 0.4% -17.5%
Bus or trolleybus 452 1.6% 27.7%
Motorcycle 8 0% -11.1%
Bicycle 79 0.3% 5.3%
Walk 243 0.9% 102.5%
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 Kentwood by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49508 42,720 15,674 $70,120 $89,029
49512 18,373 8,305 $71,329 $93,906
49546 34,721 13,088 $99,343 $143,139
49548 34,777 12,709 $61,636 $74,723

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Kentwood demographics 

What is the total population of Kentwood?

Kentwood has a total population of 54,296 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kentwood?

The gender ratio in Kentwood is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (26,506 residents)
  • 51.2% females (27,790 residents)

What is the median age in Kentwood?

The median age in Kentwood is 35.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kentwood?

The age distribution in Kentwood is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.8% (10,732 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.6% (6,858 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.4% (17,050 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.5% (11,691 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.7% (7,965 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kentwood?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kentwood is as follows:
  • White: 53.8% (29,199 residents)
  • Black or African American: 22.5% (12,214 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (223 residents)
  • Asian: 10% (5,422 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.5% (5,691 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (1,547 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 79.5% of the population in Kentwood.

How many housing units are there in Kentwood?

There are 22,322 housing units in Kentwood, reflecting a -0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kentwood has a total of 21,245 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kentwood?

Kentwood has a median household income of $74,373, representing a +1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.5% in Kentwood, with a workforce of 28,549 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.6% (20,152 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.4% (8,397 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.8% (1,645 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.9% (21,093 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.7% (2,488 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.6% (3,323 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