Petoskey, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,856
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,196/yr
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,069
-4.2% year-over-year change

Petoskey population

How many people live in Petoskey

Petoskey is home to 5,856 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.5% of Petoskey locals are male, and 53.5% are female.

Total population
5,856
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.5%
2,723
Female
53.5%
3,133
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,723 46.5% -0.1%
Female 3,133 53.5% 0.2%
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 Petoskey is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.7% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.4% of the population, while another 22.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
41
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.7%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
26.4%
45 to 64
22.6%
Over 65
23.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 861 14.7% 1.5%
15 to 24 763 13% 5.1%
25 to 44 1,547 26.4% -1.0%
45 to 64 1,324 22.6% -7.2%
Over 65 1,361 23.2% 5.7%
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 Petoskey, 95.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1.2% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3%
Non-citizens
1.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,576 95.2% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 177 3% -2.8%
Non-citizens 103 1.8% 25.6%
Racial breakdown
White
87.4%
Black or African American
1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.9%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 5,118 87.4%
Black or African American 71 1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 31 0.5%
Asian 89 1.5%
Two or more races 463 7.9%
Other 84 1.4%

Households in Petoskey

A peek inside Petoskey households

Petoskey has 2,648 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.5% are families, while the remaining 44.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,648
3.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,178
Family households
1,470
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,178 44.5% 3.0%
Family households 1,470 55.5% 3.3%
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 Petoskey

The housing landscape of Petoskey

Petoskey's housing consists of 3,069 units, with 57.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.4% 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 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,069
-4.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,753 57.1%
1 unit, attached 136 4.4%
2 units 244 8%
3 or 4 units 178 5.8%
5 to 9 units 219 7.1%
10 to 19 units 314 10.2%
20 to 49 units 154 5%
50 or more units 52 1.7%
Mobile home 19 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
23
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Petoskey

In Petoskey, the median construction year is 1970. About 30% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3% 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 921 30% 20.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 177 5.8% -42.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 310 10.1% 24.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 116 3.8% 7.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 383 12.5% -22.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 333 10.8% 5.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 498 16.2% -3.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 217 7.1% -40.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 91 3% 7.1%
Built in 2020 or later 23 0.8% N/A
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.

Petoskey occupancy rates

Out of the 2,648 occupied housing units in Petoskey, 61.1% are owner-occupied, while 38.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,648
3.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,029
Owner occupied
1,619
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,029 38.9% 1.0%
Owner occupied 1,619 61.1% 4.6%
Unoccupied housing units
13.7%
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.

Petoskey housing costs

Housing costs in Petoskey come to a median of $1,160 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,006.

Median housing costs per month
$1,160/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 Petoskey
$1,006/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 Petoskey

Petoskey education at a glance

About 21.1% of the population in Petoskey went to high school, while 21% pursued college studies. Another 6.9% earned an associate degree and 26.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 23.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 32 0.7% 146.2%
High school diploma 1,008 21.1% 1.5%
College diploma 1,002 21% -3.0%
Associate degree 331 6.9% 0.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,279 26.8% 9.5%
Graduate degree 1,121 23.5% -9.4%
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 Petoskey

How much people earn in Petoskey

The average annual household income in Petoskey was $122,884 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +10.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,196, reflecting a +3.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Petoskey
$122,884/year
10.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Petoskey
$74,196/year
3.4% year-over-year change

Petoskey income by age

In Petoskey, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,813. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $112,000 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,824, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,322 in earnings. Overall, 90.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,824 N/A
25 - 44 $72,813 4.4%
45 - 64 $112,000 20.1%
Over 65 $56,322 5.8%
Above poverty level
5,028
Below poverty level
503
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,028 90.9% -1.7%
Below poverty level 503 9.1% 7.2%

Average renter income in Petoskey

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Petoskey, their median household income was $46,974 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 25.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$46,974
Rent-to-income ratio
25.7%
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 Petoskey

Workforce and job types in Petoskey

The job market in Petoskey is powered by 3,097 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 86.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.8% run their own businesses, 55% are employed by private companies, and 15.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,097
-1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
2,689
Blue collar
408
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,689 86.8% -1.3%
Blue collar 408 13.2% -1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
12.8%
Private companies
55%
Governmental workers
15.2%
Not for profit companies
16.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 397 12.8% 7.0%
Private companies 1,705 55% -3.6%
Governmental workers 472 15.2% -3.7%
Not for profit companies 523 16.9% 2.4%
Unemployment rate
1.6%
4.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Petoskey stands at 1.6%, 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 Petoskey

How people get around in Petoskey

In Petoskey, the average commute time is 15 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 75.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 9.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
15 min
-8.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,270 75.6% 1.1%
Taxicab 16 0.5% -15.8%
Bicycle 33 1.1% -62.1%
Walk 288 9.6% -23.4%
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 Petoskey by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49770 18,221 7,945 $79,590 $116,112

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FAQs about Petoskey demographics 

What is the total population of Petoskey?

Petoskey has a total population of 5,856 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 Petoskey?

The gender ratio in Petoskey is as follows:
  • 46.5% males (2,723 residents)
  • 53.5% females (3,133 residents)

What is the median age in Petoskey?

The median age in Petoskey is 41.

What is the age distribution of the population in Petoskey?

The age distribution in Petoskey is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.7% (861 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (763 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.4% (1,547 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.6% (1,324 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.2% (1,361 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Petoskey?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Petoskey is as follows:
  • White: 87.4% (5,118 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.2% (71 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (31 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (89 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.9% (463 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (84 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.2% of the population in Petoskey.

How many housing units are there in Petoskey?

There are 3,069 housing units in Petoskey, reflecting a -4.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Petoskey has a total of 2,648 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Petoskey?

Petoskey has a median household income of $74,196, representing a +3.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 98.4% in Petoskey, with a workforce of 3,097 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.8% (2,689 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.2% (408 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.8% (397 residents)
  • Private companies: 55% (1,705 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.2% (472 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 16.9% (523 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