Van Buren County, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
75,795
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,114/yr
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
37,405
0.4% year-over-year change

Van Buren County population

How many people live in Van Buren County

Van Buren County is home to 75,795 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Van Buren County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
75,795
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
37,797
Female
50.1%
37,998
Value Percent YoY change
Male 37,797 49.9% 0.2%
Female 37,998 50.1% 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 Van Buren County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.9% are children under 15, then 11.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.8% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.9%
15 to 24
11.4%
25 to 44
23.8%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
19.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 14,323 18.9% -0.6%
15 to 24 8,637 11.4% -0.9%
25 to 44 18,019 23.8% 1.3%
45 to 64 19,738 26% -1.8%
Over 65 15,078 19.9% 2.8%
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 Van Buren County, 94.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.2% of locals are Caucasian, 3.6% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
2.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 71,944 94.9% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,821 2.4% 9.5%
Non-citizens 2,030 2.7% -11.6%
Racial breakdown
White
80.2%
Black or African American
3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.3%
Other
4.6%
Value Percent
White 60,819 80.2%
Black or African American 2,689 3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 592 0.8%
Asian 400 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6 0%
Two or more races 7,804 10.3%
Other 3,485 4.6%

Households in Van Buren County

A peek inside Van Buren County households

Van Buren County has 30,622 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.6% are families, while the remaining 32.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
30,622
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,931
Family households
20,691
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,931 32.4% 8.0%
Family households 20,691 67.6% -1.0%
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 Van Buren County

The housing landscape of Van Buren County

Van Buren County's housing consists of 37,405 units, with 78.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.1% 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 11.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
37,405
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 29,262 78.2%
1 unit, attached 407 1.1%
2 units 501 1.3%
3 or 4 units 435 1.2%
5 to 9 units 1,018 2.7%
10 to 19 units 676 1.8%
20 to 49 units 668 1.8%
50 or more units 263 0.7%
Mobile home 4,156 11.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 19 0%
Homes built since 2020
491
62.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Van Buren County

In Van Buren County, the median construction year is 1978. About 17.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,610 17.7% -0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,024 5.4% 2.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,605 9.6% -2.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,758 7.4% -7.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,914 13.1% -2.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,644 12.4% 5.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,823 15.6% -4.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,588 12.3% 3.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,948 5.2% 14.2%
Built in 2020 or later 491 1.3% 62.0%
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.

Van Buren County occupancy rates

Out of the 30,622 occupied housing units in Van Buren County, 80.6% are owner-occupied, while 19.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
30,622
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,951
Owner occupied
24,671
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,951 19.4% 1.2%
Owner occupied 24,671 80.6% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
18.1%
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.

Van Buren County housing costs

Housing costs in Van Buren County come to a median of $993 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $870.

Median housing costs per month
$993/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 Van Buren County
$870/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 Van Buren County

Van Buren County education at a glance

About 41.5% of the population in Van Buren County went to high school, while 23.7% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 13.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,366 4% -3.3%
High school diploma 24,262 41.5% -0.5%
College diploma 13,857 23.7% 2.8%
Associate degree 5,403 9.2% -0.2%
Bachelor's degree 8,063 13.8% 1.2%
Graduate degree 4,459 7.6% -0.4%
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 Van Buren County

How much people earn in Van Buren County

The average annual household income in Van Buren County was $85,909 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,114, reflecting a +1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Van Buren County
$85,909/year
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Van Buren County
$68,114/year
1.8% year-over-year change

Van Buren County income by age

In Van Buren County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,175. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $84,335 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $35,278, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,532 in earnings. Overall, 85.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $35,278 -4.3%
25 - 44 $75,175 1.5%
45 - 64 $84,335 2.4%
Over 65 $49,532 0.9%
Above poverty level
63,799
Below poverty level
10,524
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 63,799 85.8% -0.3%
Below poverty level 10,524 14.2% 3.2%

Employment in Van Buren County

Workforce and job types in Van Buren County

The job market in Van Buren County is powered by 33,869 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.6% run their own businesses, 71% are employed by private companies, and 11.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
33,869
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
23,103
Blue collar
10,766
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 23,103 68.2% 1.2%
Blue collar 10,766 31.8% 0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.6%
Private companies
71%
Governmental workers
11.8%
Not for profit companies
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,237 9.6% -9.6%
Private companies 24,041 71% 4.2%
Governmental workers 3,987 11.8% -3.2%
Not for profit companies 2,604 7.7% -6.2%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
-5.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Van Buren County stands at 4.2%, 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 Van Buren County

How people get around in Van Buren County

Commuting methods vary: 86.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% 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 28,803 86.5% -0.7%
Taxicab 3 0% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 129 0.4% 29.0%
Subway or elevated 5 0% N/A
Railroad 5 0% 0.0%
Ferryboat 9 0% 200.0%
Motorcycle 13 0% N/A
Bicycle 74 0.2% 138.7%
Walk 621 1.9% -27.8%
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 Van Buren County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49013 5,346 1,942 $55,349 $68,106
49026 1,754 741 $68,203 $72,945
49027 267 60 $108,333 $82,278
49043 2,102 796 $36,280 $49,469
49045 5,321 2,281 $57,436 $76,477
49055 5,941 2,478 $62,083 $77,470
49056 4,478 1,385 $63,438 $90,785
49057 6,434 2,301 $51,345 $72,167
49064 3,635 1,469 $68,607 $81,765
49065 7,092 2,915 $71,447 $90,563

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FAQs about Van Buren County demographics 

What is the total population of Van Buren County?

Van Buren County has a total population of 75,795 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 Van Buren County?

The gender ratio in Van Buren County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (37,797 residents)
  • 50.1% females (37,998 residents)

What is the median age in Van Buren County?

The median age in Van Buren County is 41.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Van Buren County?

The age distribution in Van Buren County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.9% (14,323 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.4% (8,637 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.8% (18,019 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (19,738 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.9% (15,078 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Van Buren County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Van Buren County is as follows:
  • White: 80.2% (60,819 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.6% (2,689 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (592 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (400 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (6 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.3% (7,804 residents)
  • Other: 4.6% (3,485 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.9% of the population in Van Buren County.

How many housing units are there in Van Buren County?

There are 37,405 housing units in Van Buren County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Van Buren County has a total of 30,622 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Van Buren County?

Van Buren County has a median household income of $68,114, representing a +1.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.8% in Van Buren County, with a workforce of 33,869 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.2% (23,103 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.8% (10,766 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.6% (3,237 residents)
  • Private companies: 71% (24,041 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.8% (3,987 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.7% (2,604 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