St. Clair County, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
160,221
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$71,270/yr
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
72,799
0.5% year-over-year change

St. Clair County population

How many people live in St. Clair County

St. Clair County is home to 160,221 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of St. Clair County locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
160,221
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
80,244
Female
49.9%
79,977
Value Percent YoY change
Male 80,244 50.1% 0.3%
Female 79,977 49.9% -0.1%
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 St. Clair County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.3% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.8% of the population, while another 29% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.3%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
22.8%
45 to 64
29%
Over 65
20.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 26,094 16.3% -1.2%
15 to 24 18,487 11.5% -0.7%
25 to 44 36,541 22.8% 0.6%
45 to 64 46,450 29% -1.4%
Over 65 32,649 20.4% 3.2%
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 St. Clair County, 97.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.2% of locals are Caucasian, 2.2% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 155,736 97.2% 0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,182 2% 4.4%
Non-citizens 1,303 0.8% -1.7%
Racial breakdown
White
91.2%
Black or African American
2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.8%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 146,136 91.2%
Black or African American 3,491 2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 271 0.2%
Asian 865 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 15 0%
Two or more races 7,697 4.8%
Other 1,746 1.1%

Households in St. Clair County

A peek inside St. Clair County households

St. Clair County has 67,816 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.7% are families, while the remaining 34.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
67,816
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
23,288
Family households
44,528
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 23,288 34.3% 5.4%
Family households 44,528 65.7% 0.0%
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 St. Clair County

The housing landscape of St. Clair County

St. Clair County's housing consists of 72,799 units, with 79.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.6% 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 6.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
72,799
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 57,583 79.1%
1 unit, attached 1,886 2.6%
2 units 1,788 2.5%
3 or 4 units 1,728 2.4%
5 to 9 units 1,785 2.4%
10 to 19 units 959 1.3%
20 to 49 units 807 1.1%
50 or more units 1,502 2.1%
Mobile home 4,739 6.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 22 0%
Homes built since 2020
744
73.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in St. Clair County

In St. Clair County, the median construction year is 1975. About 17% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 12,381 17% 1.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,917 6.8% 2.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,240 11.3% 0.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,286 8.6% -1.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 9,738 13.4% -3.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7,576 10.4% -0.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11,633 16% -2.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8,763 12% 0.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,521 3.5% 19.2%
Built in 2020 or later 744 1% 73.0%
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.

St. Clair County occupancy rates

Out of the 67,816 occupied housing units in St. Clair County, 80.8% are owner-occupied, while 19.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
67,816
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
13,034
Owner occupied
54,782
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 13,034 19.2% 0.6%
Owner occupied 54,782 80.8% 2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
6.8%
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.

St. Clair County housing costs

Housing costs in St. Clair County come to a median of $1,025 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,029.

Median housing costs per month
$1,025/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 St. Clair County
$1,029/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 St. Clair County

St. Clair County education at a glance

About 40.8% of the population in St. Clair County went to high school, while 26% pursued college studies. Another 12.2% earned an associate degree and 12.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,427 1.9% 8.4%
High school diploma 52,113 40.8% -0.1%
College diploma 33,272 26% -0.2%
Associate degree 15,577 12.2% 2.6%
Bachelor's degree 15,626 12.2% 0.2%
Graduate degree 8,728 6.8% 0.1%
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 St. Clair County

How much people earn in St. Clair County

The average annual household income in St. Clair County was $90,649 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $71,270, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in St. Clair County
$90,649/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in St. Clair County
$71,270/year
2.8% year-over-year change

St. Clair County income by age

In St. Clair County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $82,130. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,992 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,777, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,405 in earnings. Overall, 88.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,777 3.0%
25 - 44 $82,130 7.5%
45 - 64 $87,992 2.2%
Over 65 $53,405 2.9%
Above poverty level
139,078
Below poverty level
17,637
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 139,078 88.8% -0.2%
Below poverty level 17,637 11.2% 2.7%

Employment in St. Clair County

Workforce and job types in St. Clair County

The job market in St. Clair County is powered by 75,692 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 70.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
75,692
1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
51,783
Blue collar
23,909
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 51,783 68.4% 1.1%
Blue collar 23,909 31.6% 2.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
70.7%
Governmental workers
12.4%
Not for profit companies
7.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 7,042 9.3% 0.2%
Private companies 53,546 70.7% 2.4%
Governmental workers 9,424 12.4% 3.1%
Not for profit companies 5,680 7.5% -5.0%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
-9.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in St. Clair County stands at 5.7%, 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 St. Clair County

How people get around in St. Clair County

In St. Clair County, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.7% 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
28 min
-0.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 65,765 88.7% 0.8%
Taxicab 91 0.1% 16.7%
Bus or trolleybus 590 0.8% 32.3%
Ferryboat 221 0.3% 49.3%
Motorcycle 103 0.1% 390.5%
Bicycle 320 0.4% 33.3%
Walk 843 1.1% -10.6%
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 St. Clair County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48001 11,224 5,143 $69,160 $88,484
48002 3,120 1,345 $93,948 $108,196
48006 3,889 1,528 $71,385 $88,329
48014 4,294 1,806 $66,800 $80,923
48022 2,530 1,077 $96,809 $95,205
48023 5,031 2,094 $70,469 $101,198
48027 3,187 1,142 $90,417 $110,053
48028 1,272 684 $109,730 $141,611
48032 1,871 752 $96,875 $96,277
48039 7,437 3,266 $82,755 $95,785

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FAQs about St. Clair County demographics 

What is the total population of St. Clair County?

St. Clair County has a total population of 160,221 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 St. Clair County?

The gender ratio in St. Clair County is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (80,244 residents)
  • 49.9% females (79,977 residents)

What is the median age in St. Clair County?

The median age in St. Clair County is 44.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in St. Clair County?

The age distribution in St. Clair County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.3% (26,094 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (18,487 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.8% (36,541 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29% (46,450 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.4% (32,649 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of St. Clair County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of St. Clair County is as follows:
  • White: 91.2% (146,136 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.2% (3,491 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (271 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (865 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (15 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.8% (7,697 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (1,746 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.2% of the population in St. Clair County.

How many housing units are there in St. Clair County?

There are 72,799 housing units in St. Clair County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in St. Clair County and what is the average household size?

St. Clair County has a total of 67,816 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in St. Clair County?

St. Clair County has a median household income of $71,270, representing a +2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for St. Clair County?

The employment rate is 94.3% in St. Clair County, with a workforce of 75,692 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.4% (51,783 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.6% (23,909 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (7,042 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.7% (53,546 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.4% (9,424 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.5% (5,680 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