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

Total population
1,772,259
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,539/yr
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
801,083
0.6% year-over-year change

Wayne County population

How many people live in Wayne County

Wayne County is home to 1,772,259 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Wayne County locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
1,772,259
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
857,747
Female
51.6%
914,512
Value Percent YoY change
Male 857,747 48.4% -0.1%
Female 914,512 51.6% -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 Wayne County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.5% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
26.5%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
16.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 346,082 19.5% -0.7%
15 to 24 219,678 12.4% -0.5%
25 to 44 470,273 26.5% 0.5%
45 to 64 442,703 25% -1.7%
Over 65 293,523 16.6% 2.5%
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 Wayne County, 88.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 49.2% of locals are Caucasian, 36.8% are African American and 3.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.6%
Non-citizens
4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,567,126 88.4% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 134,960 7.6% 6.3%
Non-citizens 70,173 4% 4.1%
Racial breakdown
White
49.2%
Black or African American
36.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
3.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7%
Other
3%
Value Percent
White 871,884 49.2%
Black or African American 652,168 36.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,741 0.3%
Asian 65,148 3.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 539 0%
Two or more races 124,221 7%
Other 52,558 3%

Households in Wayne County

A peek inside Wayne County households

Wayne County has 700,591 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.3% are families, while the remaining 40.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
700,591
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
284,864
Family households
415,727
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 284,864 40.7% 1.4%
Family households 415,727 59.3% 0.8%
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 Wayne County

The housing landscape of Wayne County

Wayne County's housing consists of 801,083 units, with 69.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 1.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
801,083
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 557,511 69.6%
1 unit, attached 48,319 6%
2 units 30,452 3.8%
3 or 4 units 21,867 2.7%
5 to 9 units 32,483 4%
10 to 19 units 27,423 3.4%
20 to 49 units 21,112 2.6%
50 or more units 47,593 5.9%
Mobile home 14,094 1.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 229 0%
Homes built since 2020
3,229
60.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wayne County

In Wayne County, the median construction year is 1956. About 21.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 14.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.4% 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 170,163 21.2% 3.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 113,558 14.2% 0.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 190,448 23.8% -0.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 89,088 11.1% -0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 80,745 10.1% -2.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 41,761 5.2% 1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 46,710 5.8% -3.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 45,805 5.7% 0.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 19,576 2.4% 7.8%
Built in 2020 or later 3,229 0.4% 60.1%
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.

Wayne County occupancy rates

Out of the 700,591 occupied housing units in Wayne County, 64.8% are owner-occupied, while 35.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
700,591
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
246,939
Owner occupied
453,652
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 246,939 35.2% 0.2%
Owner occupied 453,652 64.8% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
12.5%
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.

Wayne County housing costs

Housing costs in Wayne County come to a median of $1,074 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,132.

Median housing costs per month
$1,074/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 Wayne County
$1,132/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 Wayne County

Wayne County education at a glance

About 38.6% of the population in Wayne County went to high school, while 23.7% pursued college studies. Another 8.2% earned an associate degree and 16% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 49,813 3.7% 0.1%
High school diploma 522,870 38.6% -1.3%
College diploma 320,401 23.7% -1.0%
Associate degree 111,163 8.2% 2.0%
Bachelor's degree 217,013 16% 2.9%
Graduate degree 132,312 9.8% 2.3%
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 Wayne County

How much people earn in Wayne County

The average annual household income in Wayne County was $85,604 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,539, reflecting a +1.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wayne County
$85,604/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wayne County
$60,539/year
1.7% year-over-year change

Wayne County income by age

In Wayne County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $64,726. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,700 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,690, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,784 in earnings. Overall, 79.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,690 6.3%
25 - 44 $64,726 3.0%
45 - 64 $70,700 -0.1%
Over 65 $48,784 1.8%
Above poverty level
1,376,413
Below poverty level
357,537
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,376,413 79.4% -0.8%
Below poverty level 357,537 20.6% 3.2%

Employment in Wayne County

Workforce and job types in Wayne County

The job market in Wayne County is powered by 757,073 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.7% run their own businesses, 72.6% are employed by private companies, and 10.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
757,073
-0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
563,827
Blue collar
193,246
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 563,827 74.5% 0.1%
Blue collar 193,246 25.5% -1.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7.7%
Private companies
72.6%
Governmental workers
10.6%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 58,405 7.7% 6.2%
Private companies 550,034 72.6% -0.9%
Governmental workers 80,642 10.6% 1.2%
Not for profit companies 67,992 9% -1.6%
Unemployment rate
8.7%
-0.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wayne County stands at 8.7%, 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 Wayne County

How people get around in Wayne County

In Wayne County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 80.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
-1.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 593,224 80.3% -1.9%
Taxicab 3,212 0.4% 26.3%
Bus or trolleybus 12,644 1.7% -18.8%
Subway or elevated 46 0% N/A
Railroad 56 0% -24.3%
Ferryboat 27 0% 3.9%
Motorcycle 396 0% 7.6%
Bicycle 1,678 0.2% -5.4%
Walk 12,064 1.6% -4.0%
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 Wayne County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48127 39,646 13,813 $60,742 $80,409
48128 12,624 4,422 $101,037 $121,915
48134 23,935 9,146 $92,076 $108,785
48101 27,925 11,791 $81,655 $100,785
48111 44,709 18,697 $76,595 $98,610
48120 8,323 2,673 $66,006 $103,845
48122 12,554 4,250 $42,185 $58,919
48124 34,479 13,894 $81,796 $100,462
48125 22,125 8,429 $60,195 $75,588
48126 51,997 15,706 $42,140 $64,302

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FAQs about Wayne County demographics 

What is the total population of Wayne County?

Wayne County has a total population of 1,772,259 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 Wayne County?

The gender ratio in Wayne County is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (857,747 residents)
  • 51.6% females (914,512 residents)

What is the median age in Wayne County?

The median age in Wayne County is 37.9.

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

The age distribution in Wayne County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (346,082 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (219,678 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.5% (470,273 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (442,703 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.6% (293,523 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wayne County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wayne County is as follows:
  • White: 49.2% (871,884 residents)
  • Black or African American: 36.8% (652,168 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (5,741 residents)
  • Asian: 3.7% (65,148 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (539 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7% (124,221 residents)
  • Other: 3% (52,558 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.4% of the population in Wayne County.

How many housing units are there in Wayne County?

There are 801,083 housing units in Wayne County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wayne County has a total of 700,591 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wayne County?

Wayne County has a median household income of $60,539, representing a +1.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.3% in Wayne County, with a workforce of 757,073 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.5% (563,827 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.5% (193,246 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.7% (58,405 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.6% (550,034 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.6% (80,642 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (67,992 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