Muskegon, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
37,226
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$44,735/yr
-3.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,245
1.4% year-over-year change

Muskegon population

How many people live in Muskegon

Muskegon is home to 37,226 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Muskegon locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
37,226
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
18,782
Female
49.6%
18,444
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,782 50.4% -1.7%
Female 18,444 49.6% 1.9%
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 Muskegon is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 19% are children under 15, then 14.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.6% of the population, while another 23.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
36
Age breakdown
Under 15
19%
15 to 24
14.5%
25 to 44
28.6%
45 to 64
23.1%
Over 65
14.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,060 19% -1.1%
15 to 24 5,412 14.5% -1.6%
25 to 44 10,647 28.6% 1.7%
45 to 64 8,583 23.1% -1.6%
Over 65 5,524 14.8% 2.9%
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, 96.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 56.1% of locals are Caucasian, 29% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
2.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 35,838 96.3% 1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 589 1.6% -15.4%
Non-citizens 799 2.2% -22.1%
Racial breakdown
White
56.1%
Black or African American
29%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
12%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 20,880 56.1%
Black or African American 10,789 29%
American Indian and Alaska Native 227 0.6%
Asian 237 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 29 0.1%
Two or more races 4,469 12%
Other 595 1.6%

Households in Muskegon

A peek inside Muskegon households

Muskegon has 13,996 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.9% are families, while the remaining 46.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,996
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,455
Family households
7,541
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,455 46.1% 0.9%
Family households 7,541 53.9% 3.0%
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

The housing landscape of Muskegon

Muskegon's housing consists of 16,245 units, with 66.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.7% 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 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,245
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,828 66.6%
1 unit, attached 442 2.7%
2 units 935 5.8%
3 or 4 units 860 5.3%
5 to 9 units 314 1.9%
10 to 19 units 671 4.1%
20 to 49 units 870 5.4%
50 or more units 1,202 7.4%
Mobile home 123 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
57
338.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Muskegon

In Muskegon, the median construction year is 1951. About 32.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 15.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,329 32.8% -3.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,543 15.6% -8.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,407 14.8% 11.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,284 7.9% -0.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,873 11.5% 17.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 615 3.8% 9.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 985 6.1% -0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 722 4.4% -3.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 430 2.6% 9.4%
Built in 2020 or later 57 0.4% 338.5%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 13,996 occupied housing units in Muskegon, 53.1% are owner-occupied, while 46.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,996
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,561
Owner occupied
7,435
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,561 46.9% 4.4%
Owner occupied 7,435 53.1% -0.0%
Unoccupied housing units
13.8%
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.

Muskegon housing costs

Housing costs in Muskegon come to a median of $889 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $996.

Median housing costs per month
$889/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
$996/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

Muskegon education at a glance

About 48.4% of the population in Muskegon went to high school, while 24.2% pursued college studies. Another 9.6% earned an associate degree and 11.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 853 3% -11.2%
High school diploma 13,989 48.4% 0.5%
College diploma 6,997 24.2% 0.5%
Associate degree 2,772 9.6% 1.3%
Bachelor's degree 3,317 11.5% 3.6%
Graduate degree 946 3.3% -4.3%
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

How much people earn in Muskegon

The average annual household income in Muskegon was $59,948 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -5.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $44,735, reflecting a -3.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Muskegon
$59,948/year
-5.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Muskegon
$44,735/year
-3.5% year-over-year change

Muskegon income by age

In Muskegon, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,402. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $53,608 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,048, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $29,625 in earnings. Overall, 75.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,048 -2.8%
25 - 44 $53,402 -1.5%
45 - 64 $53,608 3.8%
Over 65 $29,625 -5.6%
Above poverty level
24,402
Below poverty level
7,981
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 24,402 75.4% -5.2%
Below poverty level 7,981 24.6% 25.0%

Average renter income in Muskegon

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Muskegon, their median household income was $26,181 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 45.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$26,181
Rent-to-income ratio
45.7%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Muskegon

Workforce and job types in Muskegon

The job market in Muskegon is powered by 14,276 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.3% run their own businesses, 72.9% are employed by private companies, and 11.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,276
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
10,151
Blue collar
4,125
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,151 71.1% 4.0%
Blue collar 4,125 28.9% -8.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.3%
Private companies
72.9%
Governmental workers
11.4%
Not for profit companies
9.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 897 6.3% -17.3%
Private companies 10,402 72.9% 1.4%
Governmental workers 1,632 11.4% -3.2%
Not for profit companies 1,345 9.4% 9.6%
Unemployment rate
9.4%
0.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Muskegon stands at 9.4%, 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

How people get around in Muskegon

Commuting methods vary: 88.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.1% 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 12,282 88.9% -2.1%
Taxicab 58 0.4% -14.7%
Bus or trolleybus 13 0.1% -68.3%
Motorcycle 26 0.2% 30.0%
Bicycle 81 0.6% 72.3%
Walk 431 3.1% 22.8%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
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

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FAQs about Muskegon demographics 

What is the total population of Muskegon?

Muskegon has a total population of 37,226 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Muskegon?

The gender ratio in Muskegon is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (18,782 residents)
  • 49.6% females (18,444 residents)

What is the median age in Muskegon?

The median age in Muskegon is 36.

What is the age distribution of the population in Muskegon?

The age distribution in Muskegon is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19% (7,060 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.5% (5,412 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.6% (10,647 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.1% (8,583 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.8% (5,524 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Muskegon?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Muskegon is as follows:
  • White: 56.1% (20,880 residents)
  • Black or African American: 29% (10,789 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (227 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (237 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (29 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12% (4,469 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (595 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.3% of the population in Muskegon.

How many housing units are there in Muskegon?

There are 16,245 housing units in Muskegon, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Muskegon has a total of 13,996 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Muskegon?

Muskegon has a median household income of $44,735, representing a -3.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 90.6% in Muskegon, with a workforce of 14,276 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.1% (10,151 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.9% (4,125 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.3% (897 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.9% (10,402 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.4% (1,632 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.4% (1,345 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