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

Total population
67,816
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$67,344/yr
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
28,147
0.4% year-over-year change

Montcalm County population

How many people live in Montcalm County

Montcalm County is home to 67,816 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53.6% of Montcalm County locals are male, and 46.4% are female.

Total population
67,816
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53.6%
36,359
Female
46.4%
31,457
Value Percent YoY change
Male 36,359 53.6% 1.0%
Female 31,457 46.4% 0.9%
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 Montcalm County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 17% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.4% of the population, while another 26.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
17%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
26.4%
45 to 64
26.9%
Over 65
17.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 11,534 17% -0.1%
15 to 24 8,023 11.8% 1.2%
25 to 44 17,890 26.4% 1.1%
45 to 64 18,256 26.9% 0.4%
Over 65 12,113 17.9% 2.5%
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 Montcalm County, 97.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.3% of locals are Caucasian, 3.2% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 66,041 97.4% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 694 1% -10.8%
Non-citizens 1,081 1.6% 3.8%
Racial breakdown
White
88.3%
Black or African American
3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.6%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 59,859 88.3%
Black or African American 2,190 3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 165 0.2%
Asian 149 0.2%
Two or more races 4,481 6.6%
Other 972 1.4%

Households in Montcalm County

A peek inside Montcalm County households

Montcalm County has 24,511 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67.7% are families, while the remaining 32.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
24,511
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
7,913
Family households
16,598
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,913 32.3% 4.3%
Family households 16,598 67.7% 0.2%
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 Montcalm County

The housing landscape of Montcalm County

Montcalm County's housing consists of 28,147 units, with 76.4% 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 13.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
28,147
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 21,511 76.4%
1 unit, attached 331 1.2%
2 units 486 1.7%
3 or 4 units 495 1.8%
5 to 9 units 592 2.1%
10 to 19 units 308 1.1%
20 to 49 units 481 1.7%
50 or more units 59 0.2%
Mobile home 3,863 13.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 21 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
285
39.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Montcalm County

In Montcalm County, the median construction year is 1977. About 16.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.2% 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 4,687 16.6% 2.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,227 4.4% -9.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,476 8.8% -5.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,613 9.3% -1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,168 14.8% 2.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,918 10.4% 1.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,377 15.6% -4.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,941 14% 0.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,455 5.2% 15.2%
Built in 2020 or later 285 1% 39.0%
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.

Montcalm County occupancy rates

Out of the 24,511 occupied housing units in Montcalm County, 83.2% are owner-occupied, while 16.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
24,511
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,131
Owner occupied
20,380
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,131 16.8% -4.0%
Owner occupied 20,380 83.2% 2.7%
Unoccupied housing units
12.9%
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.

Montcalm County housing costs

Housing costs in Montcalm County come to a median of $906 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $869.

Median housing costs per month
$906/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 Montcalm County
$869/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 Montcalm County

Montcalm County education at a glance

About 47.9% of the population in Montcalm County went to high school, while 23.1% pursued college studies. Another 10.3% earned an associate degree and 10% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,229 4.2% 15.9%
High school diploma 25,704 47.9% -1.5%
College diploma 12,418 23.1% -1.0%
Associate degree 5,525 10.3% 4.3%
Bachelor's degree 5,354 10% 10.9%
Graduate degree 2,449 4.6% 5.4%
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 Montcalm County

How much people earn in Montcalm County

The average annual household income in Montcalm County was $79,730 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $67,344, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Montcalm County
$79,730/year
4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Montcalm County
$67,344/year
3.8% year-over-year change

Montcalm County income by age

In Montcalm County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $79,467. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,116 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,269, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,706 in earnings. Overall, 87.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,269 3.2%
25 - 44 $79,467 7.2%
45 - 64 $77,116 3.5%
Over 65 $48,706 2.9%
Above poverty level
56,238
Below poverty level
8,088
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 56,238 87.4% 0.1%
Below poverty level 8,088 12.6% 5.9%

Employment in Montcalm County

Workforce and job types in Montcalm County

The job market in Montcalm County is powered by 29,374 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 61.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 38.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.1% run their own businesses, 71.7% are employed by private companies, and 10.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
29,374
0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
18,004
Blue collar
11,370
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 18,004 61.3% 1.1%
Blue collar 11,370 38.7% -1.2%
Employer type
Self employees
10.1%
Private companies
71.7%
Governmental workers
10.4%
Not for profit companies
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,978 10.1% -1.6%
Private companies 21,066 71.7% 0.3%
Governmental workers 3,061 10.4% 3.4%
Not for profit companies 2,269 7.7% -2.3%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
26.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Montcalm County stands at 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 Montcalm County

How people get around in Montcalm County

Commuting methods vary: 90.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% 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 26,191 90.3% -0.4%
Ferryboat 6 0% 20.0%
Motorcycle 24 0.1% 118.2%
Bicycle 44 0.2% 46.7%
Walk 406 1.4% -28.3%
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 Montcalm County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48811 7,440 1,926 $70,625 $79,132
48818 2,554 925 $55,924 $76,341
48829 3,652 1,295 $63,750 $69,427
48834 2,139 828 $53,958 $69,231
48838 18,212 7,278 $70,176 $79,940
48845 1,218 361 $86,042 $88,448
48850 4,659 1,639 $68,047 $79,863
48852 145 58 $41,875 $52,457
48877 1,962 815 $64,653 $117,488
48884 5,091 1,717 $62,750 $83,571

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FAQs about Montcalm County demographics 

What is the total population of Montcalm County?

Montcalm County has a total population of 67,816 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Montcalm County?

The gender ratio in Montcalm County is as follows:
  • 53.6% males (36,359 residents)
  • 46.4% females (31,457 residents)

What is the median age in Montcalm County?

The median age in Montcalm County is 40.4.

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

The age distribution in Montcalm County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17% (11,534 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (8,023 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.4% (17,890 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.9% (18,256 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.9% (12,113 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Montcalm County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Montcalm County is as follows:
  • White: 88.3% (59,859 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.2% (2,190 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (165 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (149 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.6% (4,481 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (972 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.4% of the population in Montcalm County.

How many housing units are there in Montcalm County?

There are 28,147 housing units in Montcalm County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Montcalm County has a total of 24,511 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Montcalm County?

Montcalm County has a median household income of $67,344, representing a +3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95% in Montcalm County, with a workforce of 29,374 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 61.3% (18,004 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 38.7% (11,370 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.1% (2,978 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.7% (21,066 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.4% (3,061 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.7% (2,269 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