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

Total population
188,665
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,622/yr
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
86,208
0.1% year-over-year change

Saginaw County population

How many people live in Saginaw County

Saginaw County is home to 188,665 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Saginaw County locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
188,665
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
92,054
Female
51.2%
96,611
Value Percent YoY change
Male 92,054 48.8% -0.3%
Female 96,611 51.2% -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 Saginaw County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.5% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24% of the population, while another 25.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.5%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
24%
45 to 64
25.1%
Over 65
20.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 33,011 17.5% -1.0%
15 to 24 24,568 13% -0.8%
25 to 44 45,305 24% 0.6%
45 to 64 47,352 25.1% -2.2%
Over 65 38,429 20.4% 1.9%
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 Saginaw County, 97.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 70.7% of locals are Caucasian, 18.6% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.9%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 183,151 97.1% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,612 1.9% 3.5%
Non-citizens 1,902 1% 0.1%
Racial breakdown
White
70.7%
Black or African American
18.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7%
Other
2.2%
Value Percent
White 133,402 70.7%
Black or African American 35,003 18.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 533 0.3%
Asian 2,225 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 61 0%
Two or more races 13,244 7%
Other 4,197 2.2%

Households in Saginaw County

A peek inside Saginaw County households

Saginaw County has 77,958 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.2% are families, while the remaining 38.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
77,958
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
30,252
Family households
47,706
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 30,252 38.8% 0.9%
Family households 47,706 61.2% 0.2%
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 Saginaw County

The housing landscape of Saginaw County

Saginaw County's housing consists of 86,208 units, with 75.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.3% 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 3.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
86,208
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 65,268 75.7%
1 unit, attached 2,847 3.3%
2 units 2,425 2.8%
3 or 4 units 2,077 2.4%
5 to 9 units 3,519 4.1%
10 to 19 units 2,934 3.4%
20 to 49 units 1,352 1.6%
50 or more units 2,507 2.9%
Mobile home 3,269 3.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 10 0%
Homes built since 2020
540
50.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Saginaw County

In Saginaw County, the median construction year is 1968. About 16.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 14,359 16.7% -2.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,918 5.7% -3.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 13,428 15.6% -1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 13,161 15.3% 2.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 15,331 17.8% -3.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,927 8% 4.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 7,273 8.4% -5.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7,411 8.6% 6.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,860 3.3% 19.2%
Built in 2020 or later 540 0.6% 50.8%
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.

Saginaw County occupancy rates

Out of the 77,958 occupied housing units in Saginaw County, 74.1% are owner-occupied, while 25.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
77,958
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
20,188
Owner occupied
57,770
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 20,188 25.9% -1.7%
Owner occupied 57,770 74.1% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
9.6%
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.

Saginaw County housing costs

Housing costs in Saginaw County come to a median of $890 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $947.

Median housing costs per month
$890/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 Saginaw County
$947/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 Saginaw County

Saginaw County education at a glance

About 39% of the population in Saginaw County went to high school, while 26.2% pursued college studies. Another 10.6% earned an associate degree and 14.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,929 2% -2.7%
High school diploma 57,929 39% -2.8%
College diploma 38,805 26.2% 1.2%
Associate degree 15,757 10.6% 0.1%
Bachelor's degree 21,445 14.4% 4.7%
Graduate degree 11,536 7.8% 2.2%
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 Saginaw County

How much people earn in Saginaw County

The average annual household income in Saginaw County was $82,545 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,622, reflecting a +3.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Saginaw County
$82,545/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Saginaw County
$60,622/year
3.9% year-over-year change

Saginaw County income by age

In Saginaw County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,146. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,359 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,995, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,883 in earnings. Overall, 81.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,995 -5.9%
25 - 44 $65,146 4.9%
45 - 64 $75,359 6.2%
Over 65 $49,883 2.4%
Above poverty level
148,137
Below poverty level
32,653
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 148,137 81.9% -0.4%
Below poverty level 32,653 18.1% 0.5%

Employment in Saginaw County

Workforce and job types in Saginaw County

The job market in Saginaw County is powered by 81,990 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.2% run their own businesses, 69.5% are employed by private companies, and 12.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
81,990
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
61,832
Blue collar
20,158
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 61,832 75.4% 0.6%
Blue collar 20,158 24.6% 1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
7.2%
Private companies
69.5%
Governmental workers
12.1%
Not for profit companies
11.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,921 7.2% -2.0%
Private companies 57,014 69.5% -0.1%
Governmental workers 9,892 12.1% 4.8%
Not for profit companies 9,163 11.2% 4.9%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
-3.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Saginaw 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 Saginaw County

How people get around in Saginaw County

Commuting methods vary: 86.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% 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 69,509 86.4% -1.1%
Taxicab 28 0% -68.5%
Bus or trolleybus 243 0.3% -7.2%
Ferryboat 7 0% -36.4%
Motorcycle 61 0.1% 369.2%
Bicycle 224 0.3% 57.8%
Walk 1,794 2.2% 10.1%
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 Saginaw County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48415 8,918 3,618 $79,067 $110,553
48417 2,222 938 $72,422 $85,779
48457 8,770 3,362 $71,090 $85,031
48460 2,701 1,036 $80,000 $91,426
48601 31,601 13,323 $38,900 $50,100
48602 27,127 10,827 $46,984 $58,189
48603 27,757 12,416 $66,352 $91,943
48604 11,011 4,013 $53,042 $79,562
48607 1,614 654 $37,973 $54,923
48609 11,966 5,262 $78,218 $92,013

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FAQs about Saginaw County demographics 

What is the total population of Saginaw County?

Saginaw County has a total population of 188,665 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 Saginaw County?

The gender ratio in Saginaw County is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (92,054 residents)
  • 51.2% females (96,611 residents)

What is the median age in Saginaw County?

The median age in Saginaw County is 41.2.

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

The age distribution in Saginaw County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.5% (33,011 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (24,568 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24% (45,305 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.1% (47,352 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.4% (38,429 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Saginaw County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Saginaw County is as follows:
  • White: 70.7% (133,402 residents)
  • Black or African American: 18.6% (35,003 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (533 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (2,225 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (61 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7% (13,244 residents)
  • Other: 2.2% (4,197 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.1% of the population in Saginaw County.

How many housing units are there in Saginaw County?

There are 86,208 housing units in Saginaw County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Saginaw County has a total of 77,958 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Saginaw County?

Saginaw County has a median household income of $60,622, representing a +3.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.6% in Saginaw County, with a workforce of 81,990 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.4% (61,832 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.6% (20,158 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.2% (5,921 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.5% (57,014 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.1% (9,892 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.2% (9,163 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