Greater Grand Rapids, West Michigan, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
444,866
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$84,846/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
175,391
1.0% year-over-year change

Greater Grand Rapids population

How many people live in Greater Grand Rapids

Greater Grand Rapids is home to 444,866 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Greater Grand Rapids locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
444,866
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
222,130
Female
50.1%
222,736
Value Percent YoY change
Male 222,130 49.9% 0.6%
Female 222,736 50.1% 0.7%
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 Greater Grand Rapids is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 20% are children under 15, then 12.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.2% of the population, while another 24.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
20%
15 to 24
12.7%
25 to 44
27.2%
45 to 64
24.6%
Over 65
15.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 88,789 20% 0.2%
15 to 24 56,398 12.7% -0.8%
25 to 44 120,922 27.2% 1.2%
45 to 64 109,214 24.6% -1.0%
Over 65 69,544 15.6% 4.1%
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 Greater Grand Rapids, 91% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77% of locals are Caucasian, 7% are African American and 3.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.9%
Non-citizens
4.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 404,782 91% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 21,954 4.9% 3.3%
Non-citizens 18,130 4.1% 7.4%
Racial breakdown
White
77%
Black or African American
7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
3.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.4%
Other
2.9%
Value Percent
White 342,343 77%
Black or African American 31,030 7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,953 0.4%
Asian 14,771 3.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 114 0%
Two or more races 41,662 9.4%
Other 12,993 2.9%

Households in Greater Grand Rapids

A peek inside Greater Grand Rapids households

Greater Grand Rapids has 167,740 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 70% are families, while the remaining 30% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
167,740
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
50,328
Family households
117,412
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 50,328 30% 1.4%
Family households 117,412 70% 0.3%
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 Greater Grand Rapids

The housing landscape of Greater Grand Rapids

Greater Grand Rapids's housing consists of 175,391 units, with 68.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.2% 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 5.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
175,391
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 119,655 68.2%
1 unit, attached 12,553 7.2%
2 units 2,398 1.4%
3 or 4 units 3,786 2.2%
5 to 9 units 6,640 3.8%
10 to 19 units 11,323 6.5%
20 to 49 units 4,985 2.8%
50 or more units 4,652 2.6%
Mobile home 9,367 5.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 33 0%
Homes built since 2020
3,308
63.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Greater Grand Rapids

In Greater Grand Rapids, the median construction year is 1985. About 7.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 13,389 7.6% 1.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 6,891 3.9% 3.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 16,073 9.2% -1.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 17,350 9.9% 2.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 24,464 14% -2.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 22,379 12.8% 0.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 29,222 16.7% -3.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 25,792 14.7% 2.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 16,522 9.4% 4.9%
Built in 2020 or later 3,308 1.9% 63.1%
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.

Greater Grand Rapids occupancy rates

Out of the 167,740 occupied housing units in Greater Grand Rapids, 77% are owner-occupied, while 23% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
167,740
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
38,535
Owner occupied
129,204
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 38,535 23% -0.4%
Owner occupied 129,204 77% 1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
4.4%
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.

Greater Grand Rapids housing costs

Housing costs in Greater Grand Rapids come to a median of $1,208 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,249.

Median housing costs per month
$1,208/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 Greater Grand Rapids
$1,249/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 Greater Grand Rapids

Greater Grand Rapids education at a glance

About 30.2% of the population in Greater Grand Rapids went to high school, while 20.4% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 24.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 9,580 2.8% 11.8%
High school diploma 101,752 30.2% -0.0%
College diploma 68,782 20.4% -4.6%
Associate degree 30,509 9.1% 1.2%
Bachelor's degree 81,827 24.3% 3.4%
Graduate degree 44,007 13.1% 3.5%
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 Greater Grand Rapids

How much people earn in Greater Grand Rapids

The average annual household income in Greater Grand Rapids was $124,898 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $84,846, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Greater Grand Rapids
$124,898/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Greater Grand Rapids
$84,846/year
1.6% year-over-year change

Greater Grand Rapids income by age

In Greater Grand Rapids, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $102,500. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $107,662 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,971, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $61,010 in earnings. Overall, 92.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,971 1.9%
25 - 44 $102,500 2.3%
45 - 64 $107,662 2.2%
Over 65 $61,010 9.1%
Above poverty level
401,563
Below poverty level
32,430
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 401,563 92.5% 0.6%
Below poverty level 32,430 7.5% 0.6%

Employment in Greater Grand Rapids

Workforce and job types in Greater Grand Rapids

76.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 70.3% are employed by private companies, and 8.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
174,919
Blue collar
54,384
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 174,919 76.3% 1.1%
Blue collar 54,384 23.7% -3.1%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
70.3%
Governmental workers
8.1%
Not for profit companies
12.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 20,463 8.9% -0.8%
Private companies 161,207 70.3% -0.4%
Governmental workers 18,572 8.1% 2.6%
Not for profit companies 29,061 12.7% 1.5%

Transportation in Greater Grand Rapids

How people get around in Greater Grand Rapids

In Greater Grand Rapids, the average commute time is 209 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 97% 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
209 min
14.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 186,105 97% -1.8%
Taxicab 258 0.1% 24.6%
Bus or trolleybus 1,856 1% -10.0%
Ferryboat 41 0% 156.2%
Motorcycle 133 0.1% 37.1%
Bicycle 449 0.2% -25.9%
Walk 3,030 1.6% 1.8%
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 Greater Grand Rapids by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49301 19,846 6,884 $183,125 $242,333
49302 9,754 3,052 $134,722 $152,248
49306 11,028 4,129 $115,039 $159,223
49315 27,091 9,515 $113,346 $142,351
49316 26,427 9,626 $103,238 $131,896
49319 18,802 7,061 $78,951 $109,693
49321 15,970 6,431 $77,870 $94,079
49326 3,980 1,390 $84,000 $97,647
49330 5,599 1,987 $75,794 $91,239
49331 17,661 6,825 $91,800 $104,617

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FAQs about Greater Grand Rapids demographics 

What is the total population of Greater Grand Rapids?

Greater Grand Rapids has a total population of 444,866 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Greater Grand Rapids?

The gender ratio in Greater Grand Rapids is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (222,130 residents)
  • 50.1% females (222,736 residents)

What is the median age in Greater Grand Rapids?

The median age in Greater Grand Rapids is 39.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Greater Grand Rapids?

The age distribution in Greater Grand Rapids is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20% (88,789 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.7% (56,398 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.2% (120,922 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.6% (109,214 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.6% (69,544 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Grand Rapids?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Grand Rapids is as follows:
  • White: 77% (342,343 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7% (31,030 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (1,953 residents)
  • Asian: 3.3% (14,771 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (114 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.4% (41,662 residents)
  • Other: 2.9% (12,993 residents)

What percentage of the population in Greater Grand Rapids are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91% of the population in Greater Grand Rapids.

How many housing units are there in Greater Grand Rapids?

There are 175,391 housing units in Greater Grand Rapids, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Greater Grand Rapids and what is the average household size?

Greater Grand Rapids has a total of 167,740 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Greater Grand Rapids?

Greater Grand Rapids has a median household income of $84,846, representing a +1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Greater Grand Rapids?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.3% (174,919 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.7% (54,384 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (20,463 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.3% (161,207 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.1% (18,572 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.7% (29,061 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