Saginaw, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
43,536
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$38,579/yr
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,063
0.3% year-over-year change

Saginaw population

How many people live in Saginaw

Saginaw is home to 43,536 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.7% of Saginaw locals are male, and 52.3% are female.

Total population
43,536
-0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.7%
20,784
Female
52.3%
22,752
Value Percent YoY change
Male 20,784 47.7% -2.5%
Female 22,752 52.3% 0.9%
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 Saginaw is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.3% are children under 15, then 12.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.9% of the population, while another 23.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.3%
15 to 24
12.7%
25 to 44
27.9%
45 to 64
23.2%
Over 65
14.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,258 21.3% -0.9%
15 to 24 5,540 12.7% 2.2%
25 to 44 12,149 27.9% 1.1%
45 to 64 10,101 23.2% -4.2%
Over 65 6,488 14.9% -1.0%
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, 98.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 38.1% of locals are Caucasian, 45% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.3%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 42,718 98.1% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 561 1.3% 19.6%
Non-citizens 257 0.6% 10.3%
Racial breakdown
White
38.1%
Black or African American
45%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.2%
Other
4.3%
Value Percent
White 16,587 38.1%
Black or African American 19,615 45%
American Indian and Alaska Native 64 0.2%
Asian 95 0.2%
Two or more races 5,297 12.2%
Other 1,878 4.3%

Households in Saginaw

A peek inside Saginaw households

Saginaw has 17,789 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.6% are families, while the remaining 46.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
17,789
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
8,263
Family households
9,526
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,263 46.4% 2.0%
Family households 9,526 53.6% -1.2%
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

The housing landscape of Saginaw

Saginaw's housing consists of 21,063 units, with 77.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.3% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,063
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 16,381 77.8%
1 unit, attached 488 2.3%
2 units 1,186 5.6%
3 or 4 units 778 3.7%
5 to 9 units 803 3.8%
10 to 19 units 232 1.1%
20 to 49 units 116 0.6%
50 or more units 1,026 4.9%
Mobile home 53 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
82
-5.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Saginaw

In Saginaw, the median construction year is 1949. About 39.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.6% 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 8,347 39.6% -1.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,334 11.1% -0.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,087 19.4% -0.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,841 13.5% -5.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,372 6.5% -12.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 743 3.5% 41.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 336 1.6% 0.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 580 2.8% 63.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 341 1.6% 60.1%
Built in 2020 or later 82 0.4% -5.8%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 17,789 occupied housing units in Saginaw, 60% are owner-occupied, while 40% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
17,789
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,111
Owner occupied
10,678
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,111 40% -2.1%
Owner occupied 10,678 60% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
15.5%
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.

Saginaw housing costs

Housing costs in Saginaw come to a median of $774 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $922.

Median housing costs per month
$774/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
$922/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

Saginaw education at a glance

About 50.1% of the population in Saginaw went to high school, while 25.8% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 8.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 817 2.5% -6.7%
High school diploma 16,225 50.1% -3.1%
College diploma 8,375 25.8% -5.0%
Associate degree 2,959 9.1% 6.1%
Bachelor's degree 2,886 8.9% 19.9%
Graduate degree 1,150 3.6% 0.5%
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

How much people earn in Saginaw

The average annual household income in Saginaw was $50,056 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $38,579, reflecting a +3.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Saginaw
$50,056/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Saginaw
$38,579/year
3.4% year-over-year change

Saginaw income by age

In Saginaw, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $38,073. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $38,184 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $35,037, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,607 in earnings. Overall, 66.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $35,037 -16.2%
25 - 44 $38,073 8.1%
45 - 64 $38,184 0.6%
Over 65 $40,607 4.2%
Above poverty level
27,895
Below poverty level
14,233
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 27,895 66.2% -1.5%
Below poverty level 14,233 33.8% 1.6%

Average renter income in Saginaw

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Saginaw, their median household income was $24,012 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 46.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,012
Rent-to-income ratio
46.1%
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 Saginaw

Workforce and job types in Saginaw

The job market in Saginaw is powered by 16,829 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 4.9% run their own businesses, 73% are employed by private companies, and 11.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,829
4.0% year-over-year change
White collar
12,154
Blue collar
4,675
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,154 72.2% 5.3%
Blue collar 4,675 27.8% 0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
4.9%
Private companies
73%
Governmental workers
11.2%
Not for profit companies
10.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 819 4.9% 10.1%
Private companies 12,286 73% 2.0%
Governmental workers 1,894 11.2% 17.4%
Not for profit companies 1,830 10.9% 2.8%
Unemployment rate
10.1%
-9.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Saginaw stands at 10.1%, 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

How people get around in Saginaw

In Saginaw, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
1.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 14,475 88.2% 2.7%
Bus or trolleybus 112 0.7% -11.8%
Motorcycle 26 0.2% 188.9%
Bicycle 128 0.8% 141.5%
Walk 390 2.4% 34.0%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48601 31,601 13,323 $38,900 $50,100
48602 27,127 10,827 $46,984 $58,189
48607 1,614 654 $37,973 $54,923

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FAQs about Saginaw demographics 

What is the total population of Saginaw?

Saginaw has a total population of 43,536 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 -0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Saginaw?

The gender ratio in Saginaw is as follows:
  • 47.7% males (20,784 residents)
  • 52.3% females (22,752 residents)

What is the median age in Saginaw?

The median age in Saginaw is 35.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Saginaw?

The age distribution in Saginaw is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.3% (9,258 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.7% (5,540 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.9% (12,149 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.2% (10,101 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.9% (6,488 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Saginaw?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Saginaw is as follows:
  • White: 38.1% (16,587 residents)
  • Black or African American: 45% (19,615 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (64 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (95 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.2% (5,297 residents)
  • Other: 4.3% (1,878 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.1% of the population in Saginaw.

How many housing units are there in Saginaw?

There are 21,063 housing units in Saginaw, 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 Saginaw and what is the average household size?

Saginaw has a total of 17,789 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Saginaw?

Saginaw has a median household income of $38,579, 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 Saginaw?

The employment rate is 89.9% in Saginaw, with a workforce of 16,829 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.2% (12,154 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.8% (4,675 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 4.9% (819 residents)
  • Private companies: 73% (12,286 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.2% (1,894 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.9% (1,830 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