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

Total population
52,980
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,811/yr
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
24,011
0.0% year-over-year change

Tuscola County population

How many people live in Tuscola County

Tuscola County is home to 52,980 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Tuscola County locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
52,980
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
26,939
Female
49.2%
26,041
Value Percent YoY change
Male 26,939 50.8% -0.1%
Female 26,041 49.2% -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 Tuscola County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 10.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.1% of the population, while another 27.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
10.9%
25 to 44
23.1%
45 to 64
27.9%
Over 65
21.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,567 16.2% -1.4%
15 to 24 5,781 10.9% -0.2%
25 to 44 12,246 23.1% 0.2%
45 to 64 14,767 27.9% -1.4%
Over 65 11,619 21.9% 2.0%
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 Tuscola County, 98.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 93% of locals are Caucasian, 1.2% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
0.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 52,309 98.7% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 496 0.9% 0.4%
Non-citizens 175 0.3% -11.2%
Racial breakdown
White
93%
Black or African American
1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.3%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 49,299 93%
Black or African American 620 1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 139 0.3%
Asian 190 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6 0%
Two or more races 2,284 4.3%
Other 442 0.8%

Households in Tuscola County

A peek inside Tuscola County households

Tuscola County has 21,498 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.9% are families, while the remaining 36.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
21,498
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,770
Family households
13,728
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,770 36.1% 3.5%
Family households 13,728 63.9% -1.7%
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 Tuscola County

The housing landscape of Tuscola County

Tuscola County's housing consists of 24,011 units, with 82.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 8.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
24,011
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 19,912 82.9%
1 unit, attached 294 1.2%
2 units 271 1.1%
3 or 4 units 459 1.9%
5 to 9 units 481 2%
10 to 19 units 136 0.6%
20 to 49 units 187 0.8%
50 or more units 124 0.5%
Mobile home 2,147 8.9%
Homes built since 2020
88
109.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Tuscola County

In Tuscola County, the median construction year is 1971. About 20.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2% 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 4,902 20.4% 2.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,669 7% -9.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,701 11.2% -5.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,393 10% 1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,637 19.3% 0.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,251 9.4% -2.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,064 12.8% 2.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,822 7.6% 5.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 484 2% 5.5%
Built in 2020 or later 88 0.4% 109.5%
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.

Tuscola County occupancy rates

Out of the 21,498 occupied housing units in Tuscola County, 86.4% are owner-occupied, while 13.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
21,498
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,921
Owner occupied
18,577
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,921 13.6% -8.0%
Owner occupied 18,577 86.4% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
10.5%
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.

Tuscola County housing costs

Housing costs in Tuscola County come to a median of $807 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $819.

Median housing costs per month
$807/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 Tuscola County
$819/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 Tuscola County

Tuscola County education at a glance

About 52.1% of the population in Tuscola County went to high school, while 20.7% pursued college studies. Another 10.2% earned an associate degree and 9.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 702 1.7% -7.3%
High school diploma 22,068 52.1% -1.5%
College diploma 8,770 20.7% -1.9%
Associate degree 4,309 10.2% 5.8%
Bachelor's degree 4,204 9.9% 0.5%
Graduate degree 2,288 5.4% 16.9%
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 Tuscola County

How much people earn in Tuscola County

The average annual household income in Tuscola County was $77,133 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,811, reflecting a +1.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Tuscola County
$77,133/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Tuscola County
$63,811/year
1.5% year-over-year change

Tuscola County income by age

In Tuscola County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,242. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $72,017 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,024, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,146 in earnings. Overall, 87.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,024 6.3%
25 - 44 $77,242 3.6%
45 - 64 $72,017 0.9%
Over 65 $50,146 3.6%
Above poverty level
45,212
Below poverty level
6,678
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 45,212 87.1% -0.5%
Below poverty level 6,678 12.9% 1.9%

Employment in Tuscola County

Workforce and job types in Tuscola County

The job market in Tuscola County is powered by 22,434 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.7% run their own businesses, 72.3% are employed by private companies, and 12.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
22,434
-1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
14,502
Blue collar
7,932
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 14,502 64.6% -0.3%
Blue collar 7,932 35.4% -2.8%
Employer type
Self employees
7.7%
Private companies
72.3%
Governmental workers
12.2%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,734 7.7% -14.9%
Private companies 16,229 72.3% -1.0%
Governmental workers 2,725 12.2% 5.7%
Not for profit companies 1,746 7.8% 3.6%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
-4.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Tuscola County stands at 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 Tuscola County

How people get around in Tuscola County

Commuting methods vary: 92.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% 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 20,275 92.3% -1.4%
Taxicab 3 0% -25.0%
Bus or trolleybus 61 0.3% 38.6%
Railroad 8 0% 14.3%
Motorcycle 23 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 26 0.1% -21.2%
Walk 323 1.5% -8.8%
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 Tuscola County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48701 1,399 625 $62,969 $89,412
48723 11,678 4,801 $55,779 $69,822
48726 5,872 2,231 $65,087 $78,401
48727 958 362 $64,583 $81,259
48729 1,555 628 $60,776 $84,144
48435 2,547 838 $86,905 $96,030
48464 2,152 855 $81,417 $104,114
48733 1,648 678 $60,500 $72,534
48734 7,746 3,480 $91,032 $119,557
48735 933 412 $61,364 $75,005

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FAQs about Tuscola County demographics 

What is the total population of Tuscola County?

Tuscola County has a total population of 52,980 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Tuscola County?

The gender ratio in Tuscola County is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (26,939 residents)
  • 49.2% females (26,041 residents)

What is the median age in Tuscola County?

The median age in Tuscola County is 44.8.

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

The age distribution in Tuscola County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (8,567 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.9% (5,781 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.1% (12,246 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.9% (14,767 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.9% (11,619 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Tuscola County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Tuscola County is as follows:
  • White: 93% (49,299 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.2% (620 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (139 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (190 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (6 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.3% (2,284 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (442 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.7% of the population in Tuscola County.

How many housing units are there in Tuscola County?

There are 24,011 housing units in Tuscola County, reflecting a +0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Tuscola County has a total of 21,498 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Tuscola County?

Tuscola County has a median household income of $63,811, representing a +1.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94% in Tuscola County, with a workforce of 22,434 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.6% (14,502 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.4% (7,932 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.7% (1,734 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.3% (16,229 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.2% (2,725 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (1,746 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