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

Total population
12,563
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,805/yr
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,461
0.2% year-over-year change

Lake County population

How many people live in Lake County

Lake County is home to 12,563 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53.6% of Lake County locals are male, and 46.4% are female.

Total population
12,563
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53.6%
6,739
Female
46.4%
5,824
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,739 53.6% 0.2%
Female 5,824 46.4% 2.8%
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 Lake County is 50, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.1% are children under 15, then 10.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.1% of the population, while another 28.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 27.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
50.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.1%
15 to 24
10.8%
25 to 44
21.1%
45 to 64
28.7%
Over 65
27.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,521 12.1% -1.9%
15 to 24 1,357 10.8% 11.2%
25 to 44 2,653 21.1% 2.5%
45 to 64 3,609 28.7% -3.5%
Over 65 3,423 27.2% 4.0%
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 Lake County, 98.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.9% of locals are Caucasian, 8% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.3%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,346 98.3% 1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 166 1.3% 1.8%
Non-citizens 51 0.4% -23.9%
Racial breakdown
White
79.9%
Black or African American
8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.3%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 10,038 79.9%
Black or African American 1,005 8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 147 1.2%
Asian 38 0.3%
Two or more races 1,165 9.3%
Other 170 1.4%

Households in Lake County

A peek inside Lake County households

Lake County has 5,190 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.3% are families, while the remaining 41.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,190
5.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,163
Family households
3,027
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,163 41.7% 3.4%
Family households 3,027 58.3% 6.6%
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 Lake County

The housing landscape of Lake County

Lake County's housing consists of 13,461 units, with 71% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.5% 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 26.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,461
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,560 71%
1 unit, attached 64 0.5%
2 units 18 0.1%
3 or 4 units 156 1.2%
5 to 9 units 28 0.2%
10 to 19 units 20 0.2%
20 to 49 units 34 0.2%
Mobile home 3,564 26.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 17 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
153
98.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lake County

In Lake County, the median construction year is 1976. About 7.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,057 7.8% 0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 768 5.7% 28.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,605 11.9% 4.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,604 11.9% 5.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,632 19.6% -6.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,593 11.8% -11.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,996 14.8% -1.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,423 10.6% -4.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 630 4.7% 23.5%
Built in 2020 or later 153 1.1% 98.7%
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.

Lake County occupancy rates

Out of the 5,190 occupied housing units in Lake County, 82% are owner-occupied, while 18% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 61.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,190
5.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
935
Owner occupied
4,255
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 935 18% 0.8%
Owner occupied 4,255 82% 6.3%
Unoccupied housing units
61.4%
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.

Lake County housing costs

Housing costs in Lake County come to a median of $787 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $875.

Median housing costs per month
$787/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 Lake County
$875/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 Lake County

Lake County education at a glance

About 55.9% of the population in Lake County went to high school, while 22.1% pursued college studies. Another 6.7% earned an associate degree and 8.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 386 3.6% -27.0%
High school diploma 5,984 55.9% 5.6%
College diploma 2,363 22.1% -0.9%
Associate degree 716 6.7% 7.2%
Bachelor's degree 909 8.5% -4.6%
Graduate degree 348 3.2% 12.3%
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 Lake County

How much people earn in Lake County

The average annual household income in Lake County was $61,678 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,805, reflecting a +2.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lake County
$61,678/year
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lake County
$50,805/year
2.3% year-over-year change

Lake County income by age

In Lake County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $51,912. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $52,500 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $75,000, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,024 in earnings. Overall, 79.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $75,000 N/A
25 - 44 $51,912 1.5%
45 - 64 $52,500 -8.6%
Over 65 $45,024 4.8%
Above poverty level
9,721
Below poverty level
2,497
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,721 79.6% 1.8%
Below poverty level 2,497 20.4% 0.9%

Employment in Lake County

Workforce and job types in Lake County

The job market in Lake County is powered by 4,526 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.6% run their own businesses, 70.2% are employed by private companies, and 9.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,526
6.9% year-over-year change
White collar
2,927
Blue collar
1,599
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,927 64.7% 3.5%
Blue collar 1,599 35.3% 13.8%
Employer type
Self employees
11.6%
Private companies
70.2%
Governmental workers
9.8%
Not for profit companies
8.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 525 11.6% 10.8%
Private companies 3,179 70.2% 8.7%
Governmental workers 446 9.8% -11.3%
Not for profit companies 376 8.3% 12.9%
Unemployment rate
7.4%
4.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lake County stands at 7.4%, 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 Lake County

How people get around in Lake County

In Lake County, the average commute time is 34 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
34 min
12.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,849 86.6% 6.7%
Taxicab 2 0% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 59 1.3% 25.5%
Bicycle 20 0.4% 122.2%
Walk 37 0.8% -65.1%
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 Lake County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49402 1,411 670 $51,324 $68,233
49642 985 382 $26,950 $44,537
49644 1,715 823 $54,013 $70,954
49656 1,908 708 $56,656 $68,463
49677 7,028 2,861 $59,112 $76,201
49688 2,508 920 $63,875 $79,235
49623 986 426 $60,147 $63,791
49304 5,408 2,220 $45,991 $53,523

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FAQs about Lake County demographics 

What is the total population of Lake County?

Lake County has a total population of 12,563 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 +1.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lake County?

The gender ratio in Lake County is as follows:
  • 53.6% males (6,739 residents)
  • 46.4% females (5,824 residents)

What is the median age in Lake County?

The median age in Lake County is 50.5.

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

The age distribution in Lake County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.1% (1,521 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.8% (1,357 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.1% (2,653 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.7% (3,609 residents)
  • Over 65: 27.2% (3,423 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lake County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lake County is as follows:
  • White: 79.9% (10,038 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8% (1,005 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (147 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (38 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.3% (1,165 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (170 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.3% of the population in Lake County.

How many housing units are there in Lake County?

There are 13,461 housing units in Lake 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 Lake County and what is the average household size?

Lake County has a total of 5,190 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lake County?

Lake County has a median household income of $50,805, representing a +2.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.6% in Lake County, with a workforce of 4,526 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.7% (2,927 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.3% (1,599 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.6% (525 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.2% (3,179 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.8% (446 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.3% (376 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