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

Total population
25,350
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,516/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,713
0.5% year-over-year change

Manistee County population

How many people live in Manistee County

Manistee County is home to 25,350 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.4% of Manistee County locals are male, and 48.6% are female.

Total population
25,350
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.4%
13,023
Female
48.6%
12,327
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,023 51.4% 0.1%
Female 12,327 48.6% 0.7%
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 Manistee County is 50, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.3% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.4% of the population, while another 27.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 28% are 65 or older.

Median age
50.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.3%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
21.4%
45 to 64
27.4%
Over 65
28%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,372 13.3% -0.8%
15 to 24 2,501 9.9% -0.3%
25 to 44 5,437 21.4% 2.7%
45 to 64 6,945 27.4% -2.7%
Over 65 7,095 28% 2.7%
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 Manistee County, 98.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.5% of locals are Caucasian, 3.4% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. Another 1.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 24,897 98.2% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 296 1.2% -3.6%
Non-citizens 157 0.6% -31.7%
Racial breakdown
White
88.5%
Black or African American
3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 22,442 88.5%
Black or African American 859 3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 324 1.3%
Asian 104 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 14 0.1%
Two or more races 1,515 6%
Other 92 0.4%

Households in Manistee County

A peek inside Manistee County households

Manistee County has 10,561 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.8% are families, while the remaining 37.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
10,561
2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,929
Family households
6,632
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,929 37.2% -0.1%
Family households 6,632 62.8% 3.7%
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 Manistee County

The housing landscape of Manistee County

Manistee County's housing consists of 15,713 units, with 83.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% 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 7.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,713
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,172 83.8%
1 unit, attached 388 2.5%
2 units 204 1.3%
3 or 4 units 247 1.6%
5 to 9 units 131 0.8%
10 to 19 units 63 0.4%
20 to 49 units 209 1.3%
50 or more units 106 0.7%
Mobile home 1,180 7.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 13 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
151
41.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Manistee County

In Manistee County, the median construction year is 1972. About 16.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.7% 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 2,658 16.9% -5.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,015 6.5% -3.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,655 10.5% 3.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,108 13.4% 1.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,278 14.5% -1.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,566 10% -6.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,826 11.6% 2.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,871 11.9% 12.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 585 3.7% 4.1%
Built in 2020 or later 151 1% 41.1%
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.

Manistee County occupancy rates

Out of the 10,561 occupied housing units in Manistee County, 85.8% are owner-occupied, while 14.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 32.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
10,561
2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,504
Owner occupied
9,057
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,504 14.2% 3.1%
Owner occupied 9,057 85.8% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
32.8%
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.

Manistee County housing costs

Housing costs in Manistee County come to a median of $808 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $842.

Median housing costs per month
$808/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 Manistee County
$842/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 Manistee County

Manistee County education at a glance

About 40.4% of the population in Manistee County went to high school, while 24% pursued college studies. Another 9.6% earned an associate degree and 15.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 534 2.5% 11.7%
High school diploma 8,532 40.4% -3.0%
College diploma 5,079 24% -3.3%
Associate degree 2,032 9.6% 10.4%
Bachelor's degree 3,336 15.8% 2.4%
Graduate degree 1,619 7.7% 18.9%
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 Manistee County

How much people earn in Manistee County

The average annual household income in Manistee County was $84,176 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,516, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Manistee County
$84,176/year
3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Manistee County
$63,516/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Manistee County income by age

In Manistee County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,450. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,534 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,989, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,992 in earnings. Overall, 87.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,989 0.9%
25 - 44 $77,450 6.3%
45 - 64 $77,534 6.7%
Over 65 $51,992 5.4%
Above poverty level
20,745
Below poverty level
3,026
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 20,745 87.3% -0.9%
Below poverty level 3,026 12.7% 8.3%

Employment in Manistee County

Workforce and job types in Manistee County

The job market in Manistee County is powered by 10,074 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.2% run their own businesses, 64% are employed by private companies, and 14% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,074
2.5% year-over-year change
White collar
7,316
Blue collar
2,758
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,316 72.6% 2.4%
Blue collar 2,758 27.4% 2.8%
Employer type
Self employees
13.2%
Private companies
64%
Governmental workers
14%
Not for profit companies
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,334 13.2% 0.6%
Private companies 6,448 64% 2.3%
Governmental workers 1,407 14% 6.1%
Not for profit companies 885 8.8% 1.7%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
4.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Manistee 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 Manistee County

How people get around in Manistee County

Commuting methods vary: 85.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% 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 8,403 85.4% 0.6%
Taxicab 9 0.1% 125.0%
Bus or trolleybus 6 0.1% -84.2%
Motorcycle 1 0% 0.0%
Bicycle 81 0.8% 153.1%
Walk 180 1.8% 28.6%
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 Manistee County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49645 1,923 796 $56,300 $64,734
49660 14,578 6,005 $65,205 $89,049
49675 901 445 $64,844 $86,684
49613 528 278 $77,955 $126,426
49614 2,678 1,167 $72,250 $86,373
49619 1,009 399 $62,574 $75,706
49625 1,565 595 $52,583 $59,506
49626 242 117 $50,208 $69,014
49634 178 64 $47,083 $66,334
49638 913 381 $45,625 $62,183

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Manistee County demographics 

What is the total population of Manistee County?

Manistee County has a total population of 25,350 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Manistee County?

The gender ratio in Manistee County is as follows:
  • 51.4% males (13,023 residents)
  • 48.6% females (12,327 residents)

What is the median age in Manistee County?

The median age in Manistee County is 50.3.

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

The age distribution in Manistee County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.3% (3,372 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (2,501 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.4% (5,437 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.4% (6,945 residents)
  • Over 65: 28% (7,095 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Manistee County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Manistee County is as follows:
  • White: 88.5% (22,442 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.4% (859 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (324 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (104 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (14 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6% (1,515 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (92 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.2% of the population in Manistee County.

How many housing units are there in Manistee County?

There are 15,713 housing units in Manistee County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Manistee County has a total of 10,561 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Manistee County?

Manistee County has a median household income of $63,516, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.6% in Manistee County, with a workforce of 10,074 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.6% (7,316 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.4% (2,758 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.2% (1,334 residents)
  • Private companies: 64% (6,448 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14% (1,407 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.8% (885 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