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

Total population
5,850
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,398/yr
4.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,238
-0.3% year-over-year change

Ontonagon County population

How many people live in Ontonagon County

Ontonagon County is home to 5,850 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.6% of Ontonagon County locals are male, and 48.4% are female.

Total population
5,850
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.6%
3,016
Female
48.4%
2,834
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,016 51.6% 0.8%
Female 2,834 48.4% -1.5%
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 Ontonagon County is 60, with the population distributed as follows: about 8.7% are children under 15, then 7.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 14.5% of the population, while another 31% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 38.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
59.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
8.7%
15 to 24
7.6%
25 to 44
14.5%
45 to 64
31%
Over 65
38.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 509 8.7% -1.7%
15 to 24 446 7.6% -6.9%
25 to 44 846 14.5% 3.7%
45 to 64 1,813 31% -1.5%
Over 65 2,236 38.2% 0.9%
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 Ontonagon County, 98.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.6% of locals are Caucasian, 0.5% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.3%
Non-citizens
0.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,770 98.6% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 74 1.3% -6.3%
Non-citizens 6 0.1% -57.1%
Racial breakdown
White
92.6%
Black or African American
0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.4%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 5,415 92.6%
Black or African American 31 0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 28 0.5%
Asian 24 0.4%
Two or more races 315 5.4%
Other 37 0.6%

Households in Ontonagon County

A peek inside Ontonagon County households

Ontonagon County has 3,149 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.9% are families, while the remaining 40.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,149
5.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,264
Family households
1,885
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,264 40.1% 3.1%
Family households 1,885 59.9% 7.6%
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 Ontonagon County

The housing landscape of Ontonagon County

Ontonagon County's housing consists of 5,238 units, with 89.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.2% 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 5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,238
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,706 89.8%
1 unit, attached 13 0.2%
2 units 31 0.6%
3 or 4 units 116 2.2%
5 to 9 units 30 0.6%
10 to 19 units 41 0.8%
20 to 49 units 40 0.8%
Mobile home 261 5%
Homes built since 2020
17
88.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ontonagon County

In Ontonagon County, the median construction year is 1963. About 23.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,227 23.4% -6.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 601 11.5% 21.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 600 11.4% -14.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 561 10.7% 9.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 708 13.5% -9.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 568 10.8% 6.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 415 7.9% -2.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 424 8.1% 15.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 117 2.2% -2.5%
Built in 2020 or later 17 0.3% 88.9%
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.

Ontonagon County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,149 occupied housing units in Ontonagon County, 87.1% are owner-occupied, while 12.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 39.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,149
5.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
407
Owner occupied
2,742
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 407 12.9% 7.4%
Owner occupied 2,742 87.1% 5.5%
Unoccupied housing units
39.9%
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.

Ontonagon County housing costs

Housing costs in Ontonagon County come to a median of $594 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $540.

Median housing costs per month
$594/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 Ontonagon County
$540/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 Ontonagon County

Ontonagon County education at a glance

About 44.1% of the population in Ontonagon County went to high school, while 24.2% pursued college studies. Another 13.4% earned an associate degree and 11.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 39 0.8% -2.5%
High school diploma 2,287 44.1% -6.3%
College diploma 1,256 24.2% 1.4%
Associate degree 695 13.4% 6.9%
Bachelor's degree 586 11.3% 14.0%
Graduate degree 318 6.1% 3.6%
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 Ontonagon County

How much people earn in Ontonagon County

The average annual household income in Ontonagon County was $67,617 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,398, reflecting a +4.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ontonagon County
$67,617/year
4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ontonagon County
$54,398/year
4.9% year-over-year change

Ontonagon County income by age

In Ontonagon County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,833. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $62,366 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $56,786, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,568 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 $56,786 -26.3%
25 - 44 $65,833 8.5%
45 - 64 $62,366 10.0%
Over 65 $45,568 0.1%
Above poverty level
5,064
Below poverty level
727
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,064 87.4% 0.1%
Below poverty level 727 12.6% -0.6%

Employment in Ontonagon County

Workforce and job types in Ontonagon County

The job market in Ontonagon County is powered by 2,150 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.3% run their own businesses, 49.8% are employed by private companies, and 27% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,150
5.2% year-over-year change
White collar
1,518
Blue collar
632
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,518 70.6% 2.5%
Blue collar 632 29.4% 12.3%
Employer type
Self employees
13.3%
Private companies
49.8%
Governmental workers
27%
Not for profit companies
9.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 286 13.3% 10.4%
Private companies 1,070 49.8% 2.3%
Governmental workers 581 27% 7.6%
Not for profit companies 213 9.9% 7.0%
Unemployment rate
5.3%
-28.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ontonagon County stands at 5.3%, 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 Ontonagon County

How people get around in Ontonagon County

Commuting methods vary: 80.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6% 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 1,687 80.7% -0.3%
Taxicab 2 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 2 0.1% N/A
Railroad 3 0.1% N/A
Ferryboat 4 0.2% N/A
Walk 126 6% 63.6%
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 Ontonagon County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49910 298 169 $39,583 $64,589
49912 834 439 $57,148 $88,231
49925 566 293 $56,250 $67,258
49929 121 73 $42,708 $51,918
49948 581 287 $73,063 $82,798
49953 2,368 1,292 $59,375 $66,452
49960 291 107 $44,018 $48,869
49965 544 279 $78,295 $110,167
49967 383 240 $43,750 $58,786
49971 369 221 $39,861 $46,311

Explore more communities

FAQs about Ontonagon County demographics 

What is the total population of Ontonagon County?

Ontonagon County has a total population of 5,850 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 Ontonagon County?

The gender ratio in Ontonagon County is as follows:
  • 51.6% males (3,016 residents)
  • 48.4% females (2,834 residents)

What is the median age in Ontonagon County?

The median age in Ontonagon County is 59.8.

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

The age distribution in Ontonagon County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 8.7% (509 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.6% (446 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 14.5% (846 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 31% (1,813 residents)
  • Over 65: 38.2% (2,236 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ontonagon County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ontonagon County is as follows:
  • White: 92.6% (5,415 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.5% (31 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (28 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (24 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.4% (315 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (37 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.6% of the population in Ontonagon County.

How many housing units are there in Ontonagon County?

There are 5,238 housing units in Ontonagon County, reflecting a -0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ontonagon County has a total of 3,149 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ontonagon County?

Ontonagon County has a median household income of $54,398, representing a +4.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.7% in Ontonagon County, with a workforce of 2,150 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.6% (1,518 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.4% (632 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.3% (286 residents)
  • Private companies: 49.8% (1,070 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 27% (581 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.9% (213 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