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

Total population
41,242
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,951/yr
5.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,139
0.5% year-over-year change

Mecosta County population

How many people live in Mecosta County

Mecosta County is home to 41,242 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Mecosta County locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
41,242
2.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
20,696
Female
49.8%
20,546
Value Percent YoY change
Male 20,696 50.2% 2.9%
Female 20,546 49.8% 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 Mecosta County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.6% are children under 15, then 18.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21% of the population, while another 24.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
40
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.6%
15 to 24
18.7%
25 to 44
21%
45 to 64
24.4%
Over 65
20.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,429 15.6% 0.1%
15 to 24 7,699 18.7% 8.2%
25 to 44 8,642 21% 1.7%
45 to 64 10,073 24.4% -0.8%
Over 65 8,399 20.4% 3.3%
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 Mecosta County, 97.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.2% of locals are Caucasian, 2.2% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
1.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 40,070 97.2% 1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 717 1.7% -3.4%
Non-citizens 455 1.1% 79.8%
Racial breakdown
White
90.2%
Black or African American
2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.5%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 37,208 90.2%
Black or African American 905 2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 212 0.5%
Asian 299 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0%
Two or more races 2,277 5.5%
Other 337 0.8%

Households in Mecosta County

A peek inside Mecosta County households

Mecosta County has 16,708 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.6% are families, while the remaining 38.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
16,708
2.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,409
Family households
10,299
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,409 38.4% -0.1%
Family households 10,299 61.6% 4.1%
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 Mecosta County

The housing landscape of Mecosta County

Mecosta County's housing consists of 21,139 units, with 72.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 14.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,139
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 15,380 72.8%
1 unit, attached 253 1.2%
2 units 518 2.4%
3 or 4 units 534 2.5%
5 to 9 units 499 2.4%
10 to 19 units 595 2.8%
20 to 49 units 197 0.9%
50 or more units 77 0.4%
Mobile home 3,069 14.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 17 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
117
165.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mecosta County

In Mecosta County, the median construction year is 1979. About 12.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,703 12.8% 9.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 991 4.7% 11.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,428 6.8% 5.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,942 9.2% -1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,816 18% 1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,776 13.1% -6.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,234 15.3% -10.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,797 13.2% -1.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,335 6.3% 15.5%
Built in 2020 or later 117 0.6% 165.9%
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.

Mecosta County occupancy rates

Out of the 16,708 occupied housing units in Mecosta County, 76.9% are owner-occupied, while 23.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 21% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
16,708
2.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,857
Owner occupied
12,851
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,857 23.1% -1.8%
Owner occupied 12,851 76.9% 3.8%
Unoccupied housing units
21.0%
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.

Mecosta County housing costs

Housing costs in Mecosta County come to a median of $863 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $934.

Median housing costs per month
$863/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 Mecosta County
$934/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 Mecosta County

Mecosta County education at a glance

About 39.5% of the population in Mecosta County went to high school, while 27.7% pursued college studies. Another 9.7% earned an associate degree and 13.7% 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 1,034 3.1% 12.6%
High school diploma 13,186 39.5% 4.5%
College diploma 9,231 27.7% 2.6%
Associate degree 3,232 9.7% 1.4%
Bachelor's degree 4,564 13.7% 2.4%
Graduate degree 2,119 6.4% -5.6%
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 Mecosta County

How much people earn in Mecosta County

The average annual household income in Mecosta County was $74,241 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,951, reflecting a +5.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mecosta County
$74,241/year
5.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mecosta County
$60,951/year
5.5% year-over-year change

Mecosta County income by age

In Mecosta County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,225. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,109 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,932, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,827 in earnings. Overall, 80.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,932 9.9%
25 - 44 $69,225 9.3%
45 - 64 $76,109 5.7%
Over 65 $51,827 3.6%
Above poverty level
31,035
Below poverty level
7,614
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 31,035 80.3% 1.7%
Below poverty level 7,614 19.7% 7.1%

Employment in Mecosta County

Workforce and job types in Mecosta County

The job market in Mecosta County is powered by 17,918 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 65.8% are employed by private companies, and 16.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,918
4.6% year-over-year change
White collar
12,432
Blue collar
5,486
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,432 69.4% 4.3%
Blue collar 5,486 30.6% 5.3%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
65.8%
Governmental workers
16.9%
Not for profit companies
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,513 8.4% 8.2%
Private companies 11,788 65.8% 4.3%
Governmental workers 3,025 16.9% 9.3%
Not for profit companies 1,592 8.9% -4.1%
Unemployment rate
4.0%
-17.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mecosta County stands at 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 Mecosta County

How people get around in Mecosta County

In Mecosta County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
-0.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 14,754 84.8% 2.9%
Taxicab 16 0.1% -5.9%
Bus or trolleybus 67 0.4% -16.2%
Bicycle 53 0.3% 39.5%
Walk 758 4.4% -8.1%
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 Mecosta County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48850 4,659 1,639 $68,047 $79,863
49340 2,437 1,071 $54,417 $71,832
49342 1,527 700 $53,971 $73,802
49305 2,378 1,057 $51,875 $68,152
49307 18,407 7,137 $60,358 $74,871
49310 3,183 1,059 $64,420 $73,852
49320 157 72 $63,929 $61,114
49332 3,044 1,433 $59,509 $69,578
49336 4,860 1,540 $54,522 $74,981
49338 1,971 710 $69,375 $72,677

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FAQs about Mecosta County demographics 

What is the total population of Mecosta County?

Mecosta County has a total population of 41,242 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 +2.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mecosta County?

The gender ratio in Mecosta County is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (20,696 residents)
  • 49.8% females (20,546 residents)

What is the median age in Mecosta County?

The median age in Mecosta County is 40.

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

The age distribution in Mecosta County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.6% (6,429 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.7% (7,699 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21% (8,642 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.4% (10,073 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.4% (8,399 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mecosta County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mecosta County is as follows:
  • White: 90.2% (37,208 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.2% (905 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (212 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (299 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.5% (2,277 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (337 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.2% of the population in Mecosta County.

How many housing units are there in Mecosta County?

There are 21,139 housing units in Mecosta 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 Mecosta County and what is the average household size?

Mecosta County has a total of 16,708 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mecosta County?

Mecosta County has a median household income of $60,951, representing a +5.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96% in Mecosta County, with a workforce of 17,918 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.4% (12,432 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.6% (5,486 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (1,513 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.8% (11,788 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.9% (3,025 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.9% (1,592 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