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

Total population
1,279,825
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$97,760/yr
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
561,348
0.6% year-over-year change

Oakland County population

How many people live in Oakland County

Oakland County is home to 1,279,825 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Oakland County locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
1,279,825
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
632,158
Female
50.6%
647,667
Value Percent YoY change
Male 632,158 49.4% 0.6%
Female 647,667 50.6% 0.6%
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 Oakland County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.5% are children under 15, then 11.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.5% of the population, while another 27% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.5%
15 to 24
11.6%
25 to 44
26.5%
45 to 64
27%
Over 65
18.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 211,094 16.5% -0.5%
15 to 24 148,463 11.6% -0.3%
25 to 44 339,325 26.5% 1.8%
45 to 64 345,887 27% -1.2%
Over 65 235,056 18.4% 3.1%
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 Oakland County, 85.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.2% of locals are Caucasian, 12.8% are African American and 8.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.2%
Non-citizens
6.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,096,141 85.6% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 105,380 8.2% 1.1%
Non-citizens 78,304 6.1% 2.2%
Racial breakdown
White
69.2%
Black or African American
12.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
8.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.5%
Other
1.7%
Value Percent
White 885,044 69.2%
Black or African American 164,389 12.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,045 0.2%
Asian 109,982 8.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 419 0%
Two or more races 96,559 7.5%
Other 21,387 1.7%

Households in Oakland County

A peek inside Oakland County households

Oakland County has 530,460 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.8% are families, while the remaining 38.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
530,460
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
202,369
Family households
328,091
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 202,369 38.2% 0.8%
Family households 328,091 61.8% 0.1%
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 Oakland County

The housing landscape of Oakland County

Oakland County's housing consists of 561,348 units, with 67.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.5% 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 2.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
561,348
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 380,136 67.7%
1 unit, attached 36,541 6.5%
2 units 6,903 1.2%
3 or 4 units 18,391 3.3%
5 to 9 units 35,444 6.3%
10 to 19 units 25,082 4.5%
20 to 49 units 15,923 2.8%
50 or more units 27,102 4.8%
Mobile home 15,544 2.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 282 0%
Homes built since 2020
6,162
83.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Oakland County

In Oakland County, the median construction year is 1975. About 7.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 41,079 7.3% -0.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 30,287 5.4% -1.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 84,483 15% 0.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 70,468 12.6% -1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 99,542 17.7% -1.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 71,134 12.7% 1.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 74,513 13.3% -1.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 52,410 9.3% 3.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 31,270 5.6% 6.6%
Built in 2020 or later 6,162 1.1% 83.5%
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.

Oakland County occupancy rates

Out of the 530,460 occupied housing units in Oakland County, 72.7% are owner-occupied, while 27.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
530,460
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
144,960
Owner occupied
385,500
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 144,960 27.3% -1.1%
Owner occupied 385,500 72.7% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
5.5%
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.

Oakland County housing costs

Housing costs in Oakland County come to a median of $1,458 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,376.

Median housing costs per month
$1,458/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 Oakland County
$1,376/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 Oakland County

Oakland County education at a glance

About 22.8% of the population in Oakland County went to high school, while 19.6% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 27.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 20.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 17,709 1.7% -0.7%
High school diploma 232,670 22.8% 0.1%
College diploma 199,689 19.6% -2.4%
Associate degree 79,169 7.8% 0.2%
Bachelor's degree 284,808 27.9% 2.7%
Graduate degree 206,446 20.2% 3.0%
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 Oakland County

How much people earn in Oakland County

The average annual household income in Oakland County was $134,116 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $97,760, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Oakland County
$134,116/year
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Oakland County
$97,760/year
2.6% year-over-year change

Oakland County income by age

In Oakland County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $107,802. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $125,235 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $57,661, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $67,387 in earnings. Overall, 92.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,661 10.3%
25 - 44 $107,802 3.1%
45 - 64 $125,235 2.8%
Over 65 $67,387 2.2%
Above poverty level
1,158,582
Below poverty level
97,264
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,158,582 92.3% 0.6%
Below poverty level 97,264 7.7% 1.4%

Employment in Oakland County

Workforce and job types in Oakland County

The job market in Oakland County is powered by 663,819 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 85.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.5% run their own businesses, 72.2% are employed by private companies, and 9.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
663,819
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
566,535
Blue collar
97,284
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 566,535 85.3% 0.4%
Blue collar 97,284 14.7% 0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.5%
Private companies
72.2%
Governmental workers
9.2%
Not for profit companies
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 63,137 9.5% -1.4%
Private companies 479,277 72.2% 0.0%
Governmental workers 61,257 9.2% 3.8%
Not for profit companies 60,148 9.1% 3.4%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
1.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Oakland County stands at 4.8%, 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 Oakland County

How people get around in Oakland County

In Oakland County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 77.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
-0.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 502,531 77.2% -2.3%
Taxicab 703 0.1% 47.7%
Bus or trolleybus 2,062 0.3% -1.4%
Subway or elevated 51 0% N/A
Railroad 12 0% -47.8%
Ferryboat 94 0% 44.6%
Motorcycle 144 0% -22.6%
Bicycle 1,122 0.2% 0.7%
Walk 7,159 1.1% -2.8%
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 Oakland County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48009 21,772 9,449 $153,401 $248,443
48017 11,350 5,659 $88,812 $103,400
48025 14,734 5,598 $185,000 $241,434
48030 14,963 6,804 $67,073 $81,992
48033 17,277 8,485 $61,016 $78,955
48034 14,796 7,752 $62,938 $82,113
48067 24,868 12,777 $112,840 $139,920
48069 2,602 1,139 $171,125 $203,485
48070 6,328 2,356 $190,150 $233,441
48071 28,419 13,620 $69,503 $85,135

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FAQs about Oakland County demographics 

What is the total population of Oakland County?

Oakland County has a total population of 1,279,825 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Oakland County?

The gender ratio in Oakland County is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (632,158 residents)
  • 50.6% females (647,667 residents)

What is the median age in Oakland County?

The median age in Oakland County is 41.3.

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

The age distribution in Oakland County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.5% (211,094 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.6% (148,463 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.5% (339,325 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27% (345,887 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.4% (235,056 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Oakland County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Oakland County is as follows:
  • White: 69.2% (885,044 residents)
  • Black or African American: 12.8% (164,389 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (2,045 residents)
  • Asian: 8.6% (109,982 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (419 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.5% (96,559 residents)
  • Other: 1.7% (21,387 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.6% of the population in Oakland County.

How many housing units are there in Oakland County?

There are 561,348 housing units in Oakland County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Oakland County has a total of 530,460 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Oakland County?

Oakland County has a median household income of $97,760, representing a +2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.2% in Oakland County, with a workforce of 663,819 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.3% (566,535 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.7% (97,284 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.5% (63,137 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.2% (479,277 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.2% (61,257 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.1% (60,148 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