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

Total population
8,628
-1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$29,309/yr
6.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,660
-0.6% year-over-year change

Highland Park population

How many people live in Highland Park

Highland Park is home to 8,628 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Highland Park locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
8,628
-1.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
4,224
Female
51%
4,404
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,224 49% 3.4%
Female 4,404 51% -6.6%
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 Highland Park is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.6% are children under 15, then 13.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.6% of the population, while another 24.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.6%
15 to 24
13.2%
25 to 44
22.6%
45 to 64
24.4%
Over 65
24.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,346 15.6% -8.7%
15 to 24 1,135 13.2% 3.4%
25 to 44 1,953 22.6% 7.8%
45 to 64 2,106 24.4% -11.4%
Over 65 2,088 24.2% 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 Highland Park, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 11.5% of locals are Caucasian, 82.3% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
0.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,363 96.9% -2.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 224 2.6% 25.8%
Non-citizens 41 0.5% -25.4%
Racial breakdown
White
11.5%
Black or African American
82.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.1%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 992 11.5%
Black or African American 7,097 82.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 13 0.2%
Asian 9 0.1%
Two or more races 442 5.1%
Other 75 0.9%

Households in Highland Park

A peek inside Highland Park households

Highland Park has 3,825 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 38.4% are families, while the remaining 61.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,825
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,356
Family households
1,469
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,356 61.6% 3.6%
Family households 1,469 38.4% -4.8%
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 Highland Park

The housing landscape of Highland Park

Highland Park's housing consists of 5,660 units, with 51.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.8% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,660
-0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,894 51.1%
1 unit, attached 217 3.8%
2 units 470 8.3%
3 or 4 units 231 4.1%
5 to 9 units 344 6.1%
10 to 19 units 139 2.5%
20 to 49 units 230 4.1%
50 or more units 1,128 19.9%
Mobile home 7 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
41
95.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Highland Park

In Highland Park, the median construction year is 1944. About 46.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 0.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,611 46.1% 8.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 498 8.8% -9.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 617 10.9% 3.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 276 4.9% -36.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 753 13.3% -2.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 171 3% -14.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 184 3.2% -37.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 463 8.2% 12.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 46 0.8% 820.0%
Built in 2020 or later 41 0.7% 95.2%
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.

Highland Park occupancy rates

Out of the 3,825 occupied housing units in Highland Park, 44.5% are owner-occupied, while 55.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 32.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,825
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,124
Owner occupied
1,701
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,124 55.5% 1.9%
Owner occupied 1,701 44.5% -1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
32.4%
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.

Highland Park housing costs

Housing costs in Highland Park come to a median of $683 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $688.

Median housing costs per month
$683/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 Highland Park
$688/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 Highland Park

Highland Park education at a glance

About 42.6% of the population in Highland Park went to high school, while 28% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 9.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 321 4.6% 5.9%
High school diploma 2,980 42.6% -6.3%
College diploma 1,957 28% 8.8%
Associate degree 634 9.1% -7.7%
Bachelor's degree 653 9.3% 7.4%
Graduate degree 455 6.5% -3.6%
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 Highland Park

How much people earn in Highland Park

The average annual household income in Highland Park was $60,451 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +13.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $29,309, reflecting a +6.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Highland Park
$60,451/year
13.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Highland Park
$29,309/year
6.3% year-over-year change

Highland Park income by age

In Highland Park, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $41,821. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $37,703 overall. Overall, 59.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $41,821 15.5%
45 - 64 $37,703 28.4%
Over 65 $21,121 -4.9%
Above poverty level
4,959
Below poverty level
3,408
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,959 59.3% -0.4%
Below poverty level 3,408 40.7% -2.9%

Average renter income in Highland Park

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Highland Park, their median household income was $16,081 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 51.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$16,081
Rent-to-income ratio
51.3%
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 Highland Park

Workforce and job types in Highland Park

The job market in Highland Park is powered by 2,984 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5% run their own businesses, 68.8% are employed by private companies, and 14.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,984
-2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
2,210
Blue collar
774
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,210 74.1% -4.3%
Blue collar 774 25.9% 3.9%
Employer type
Self employees
5%
Private companies
68.8%
Governmental workers
14.2%
Not for profit companies
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 150 5% -8.5%
Private companies 2,054 68.8% -7.1%
Governmental workers 424 14.2% 4.2%
Not for profit companies 356 11.9% 29.9%
Unemployment rate
18.7%
3.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Highland Park stands at 18.7%, 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 Highland Park

How people get around in Highland Park

In Highland Park, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 71.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
-7.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,075 71.9% -4.2%
Taxicab 55 1.9% 816.7%
Bus or trolleybus 322 11.2% -11.8%
Walk 95 3.3% 39.7%
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 Highland Park by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
48203 20,049 8,534 $38,404 $60,358

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FAQs about Highland Park demographics 

What is the total population of Highland Park?

Highland Park has a total population of 8,628 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 -1.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Highland Park?

The gender ratio in Highland Park is as follows:
  • 49% males (4,224 residents)
  • 51% females (4,404 residents)

What is the median age in Highland Park?

The median age in Highland Park is 42.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Highland Park?

The age distribution in Highland Park is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.6% (1,346 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.2% (1,135 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.6% (1,953 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.4% (2,106 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.2% (2,088 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Highland Park?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Highland Park is as follows:
  • White: 11.5% (992 residents)
  • Black or African American: 82.3% (7,097 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (13 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (9 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.1% (442 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (75 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Highland Park.

How many housing units are there in Highland Park?

There are 5,660 housing units in Highland Park, 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 Highland Park and what is the average household size?

Highland Park has a total of 3,825 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Highland Park?

Highland Park has a median household income of $29,309, representing a +6.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Highland Park?

The employment rate is 81.3% in Highland Park, with a workforce of 2,984 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.1% (2,210 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.9% (774 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5% (150 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.8% (2,054 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.2% (424 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.9% (356 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