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

Total population
175,961
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,024/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
75,266
0.4% year-over-year change

Muskegon County population

How many people live in Muskegon County

Muskegon County is home to 175,961 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Muskegon County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
175,961
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
87,788
Female
50.1%
88,173
Value Percent YoY change
Male 87,788 49.9% 0.3%
Female 88,173 50.1% 0.3%
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 Muskegon County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 12% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.8% of the population, while another 25.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
40
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
12%
25 to 44
25.8%
45 to 64
25.2%
Over 65
18.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 32,446 18.4% -0.8%
15 to 24 21,123 12% -0.7%
25 to 44 45,487 25.8% 1.3%
45 to 64 44,417 25.2% -1.1%
Over 65 32,488 18.5% 2.8%
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 Muskegon County, 97.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77% of locals are Caucasian, 12.1% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 171,524 97.5% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,847 1.6% -0.6%
Non-citizens 1,590 0.9% -7.2%
Racial breakdown
White
77%
Black or African American
12.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.6%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 135,479 77%
Black or African American 21,276 12.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 920 0.5%
Asian 1,147 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 89 0%
Two or more races 15,050 8.6%
Other 2,000 1.1%

Households in Muskegon County

A peek inside Muskegon County households

Muskegon County has 67,732 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67.5% are families, while the remaining 32.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
67,732
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
21,983
Family households
45,749
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 21,983 32.5% -1.2%
Family households 45,749 67.5% 2.0%
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 Muskegon County

The housing landscape of Muskegon County

Muskegon County's housing consists of 75,266 units, with 77.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 6.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
75,266
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 58,657 77.9%
1 unit, attached 1,689 2.2%
2 units 1,441 1.9%
3 or 4 units 1,435 1.9%
5 to 9 units 1,545 2%
10 to 19 units 1,879 2.5%
20 to 49 units 1,314 1.8%
50 or more units 2,140 2.8%
Mobile home 5,141 6.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 25 0%
Homes built since 2020
570
99.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Muskegon County

In Muskegon County, the median construction year is 1969. About 15.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 11,821 15.7% -2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 7,600 10.1% -2.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 11,066 14.7% -0.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 7,655 10.2% -0.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 10,191 13.5% 1.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,960 7.9% 7.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,794 13% 0.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7,527 10% -1.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,082 4.1% 3.2%
Built in 2020 or later 570 0.8% 99.3%
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.

Muskegon County occupancy rates

Out of the 67,732 occupied housing units in Muskegon County, 78.1% are owner-occupied, while 21.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
67,732
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
14,861
Owner occupied
52,871
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 14,861 21.9% 1.9%
Owner occupied 52,871 78.1% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
10.0%
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.

Muskegon County housing costs

Housing costs in Muskegon County come to a median of $963 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,028.

Median housing costs per month
$963/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 Muskegon County
$1,028/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 Muskegon County

Muskegon County education at a glance

About 42.1% of the population in Muskegon County went to high school, while 24.5% pursued college studies. Another 11.5% earned an associate degree and 14.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,690 2% -4.4%
High school diploma 57,444 42.1% 1.4%
College diploma 33,424 24.5% -0.3%
Associate degree 15,729 11.5% -0.6%
Bachelor's degree 19,226 14.1% 1.5%
Graduate degree 7,930 5.8% 1.3%
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 Muskegon County

How much people earn in Muskegon County

The average annual household income in Muskegon County was $81,950 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,024, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Muskegon County
$81,950/year
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Muskegon County
$65,024/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Muskegon County income by age

In Muskegon County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,370. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,570 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,782, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,423 in earnings. Overall, 86% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,782 -13.8%
25 - 44 $68,370 1.4%
45 - 64 $78,570 4.2%
Over 65 $49,423 3.2%
Above poverty level
145,199
Below poverty level
23,563
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 145,199 86% -1.2%
Below poverty level 23,563 14% 12.2%

Employment in Muskegon County

Workforce and job types in Muskegon County

The job market in Muskegon County is powered by 78,530 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.9% run their own businesses, 71.2% are employed by private companies, and 11.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
78,530
1.3% year-over-year change
White collar
53,860
Blue collar
24,670
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 53,860 68.6% 2.5%
Blue collar 24,670 31.4% -1.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7.9%
Private companies
71.2%
Governmental workers
11.6%
Not for profit companies
9.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,203 7.9% 2.3%
Private companies 55,949 71.2% 0.1%
Governmental workers 9,094 11.6% 6.5%
Not for profit companies 7,284 9.3% 4.1%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
-5.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Muskegon 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 Muskegon County

How people get around in Muskegon County

In Muskegon County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
-3.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 69,215 90.3% -0.6%
Taxicab 68 0.1% -6.8%
Bus or trolleybus 41 0% -58.6%
Motorcycle 58 0.1% 7.4%
Bicycle 149 0.2% 25.2%
Walk 957 1.2% 4.0%
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 Muskegon County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49415 6,330 2,602 $81,908 $106,090
49425 3,520 1,258 $62,841 $79,642
49437 6,895 2,652 $82,805 $106,422
49440 1,492 761 $46,808 $79,290
49441 36,779 14,976 $67,427 $81,218
49442 44,766 16,417 $48,563 $61,866
49444 26,372 10,192 $53,054 $70,248
49445 21,289 8,225 $84,877 $103,285
49303 772 239 $78,917 $87,888
49318 1,604 518 $81,591 $97,080

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FAQs about Muskegon County demographics 

What is the total population of Muskegon County?

Muskegon County has a total population of 175,961 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 Muskegon County?

The gender ratio in Muskegon County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (87,788 residents)
  • 50.1% females (88,173 residents)

What is the median age in Muskegon County?

The median age in Muskegon County is 40.

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

The age distribution in Muskegon County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (32,446 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12% (21,123 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.8% (45,487 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.2% (44,417 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.5% (32,488 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Muskegon County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Muskegon County is as follows:
  • White: 77% (135,479 residents)
  • Black or African American: 12.1% (21,276 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (920 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (1,147 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (89 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.6% (15,050 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (2,000 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.5% of the population in Muskegon County.

How many housing units are there in Muskegon County?

There are 75,266 housing units in Muskegon 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 Muskegon County and what is the average household size?

Muskegon County has a total of 67,732 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Muskegon County?

Muskegon County has a median household income of $65,024, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.6% in Muskegon County, with a workforce of 78,530 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.6% (53,860 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.4% (24,670 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.9% (6,203 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.2% (55,949 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.6% (9,094 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.3% (7,284 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