Greater Muskegon, West Michigan, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
148,533
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$78,225/yr
13.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
63,175
0.4% year-over-year change

Greater Muskegon population

How many people live in Greater Muskegon

Greater Muskegon is home to 148,533 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Greater Muskegon locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
148,533
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
74,101
Female
50.1%
74,432
Value Percent YoY change
Male 74,101 49.9% 0.2%
Female 74,432 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 Muskegon is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.6% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.9% of the population, while another 25.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.6%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
25.9%
45 to 64
25.5%
Over 65
18.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 27,689 18.6% -0.2%
15 to 24 17,691 11.9% -0.7%
25 to 44 38,428 25.9% 1.3%
45 to 64 37,835 25.5% -0.7%
Over 65 26,889 18.1% 2.6%
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 Muskegon, 97.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77.1% of locals are Caucasian, 12.2% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 144,839 97.5% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,405 1.6% 2.1%
Non-citizens 1,289 0.9% -3.5%
Racial breakdown
White
77.1%
Black or African American
12.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
8.5%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 114,521 77.1%
Black or African American 18,042 12.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 827 0.6%
Asian 963 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 82 0.1%
Two or more races 12,577 8.5%
Other 1,521 1%

Households in Greater Muskegon

A peek inside Greater Muskegon households

Greater Muskegon has 56,791 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.3% are families, while the remaining 31.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
56,791
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
17,989
Family households
38,802
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 17,989 31.7% -1.6%
Family households 38,802 68.3% 2.1%
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 Muskegon

The housing landscape of Greater Muskegon

Greater Muskegon's housing consists of 63,175 units, with 78.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% 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 7.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
63,175
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 49,787 78.8%
1 unit, attached 1,158 1.8%
2 units 1,123 1.8%
3 or 4 units 1,122 1.8%
5 to 9 units 1,231 2%
10 to 19 units 1,395 2.2%
20 to 49 units 958 1.5%
50 or more units 1,502 2.4%
Mobile home 4,872 7.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 27 0%
Homes built since 2020
576
86.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Greater Muskegon

In Greater Muskegon, the median construction year is 1975. About 15.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 9,744 15.4% -1.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 6,191 9.8% -1.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,045 14.3% -0.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,252 9.9% -0.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,674 13.7% 1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,075 8% 6.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 8,416 13.3% -0.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,594 10.4% -2.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,607 4.1% 2.4%
Built in 2020 or later 576 0.9% 86.4%
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 Muskegon occupancy rates

Out of the 56,791 occupied housing units in Greater Muskegon, 79.1% are owner-occupied, while 20.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
56,791
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
11,865
Owner occupied
44,926
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 11,865 20.9% 1.1%
Owner occupied 44,926 79.1% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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.

Greater Muskegon housing costs

Housing costs in Greater Muskegon come to a median of $993 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $979.

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 Greater Muskegon
$979/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 Muskegon

Greater Muskegon education at a glance

About 43% of the population in Greater Muskegon went to high school, while 24.4% pursued college studies. Another 11.4% earned an associate degree and 13.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,417 2.1% -2.1%
High school diploma 49,392 43% 1.5%
College diploma 28,063 24.4% -0.0%
Associate degree 13,070 11.4% -0.7%
Bachelor's degree 15,523 13.5% 0.7%
Graduate degree 6,432 5.6% 1.0%
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 Muskegon

How much people earn in Greater Muskegon

The average annual household income in Greater Muskegon was $91,295 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $78,225, reflecting a +13.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Greater Muskegon
$91,295/year
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Greater Muskegon
$78,225/year
13.5% year-over-year change

Greater Muskegon income by age

In Greater Muskegon, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,983. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,479 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,868, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,458 in earnings. Overall, 86% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,868 -6.5%
25 - 44 $83,983 19.3%
45 - 64 $89,479 3.5%
Over 65 $56,458 5.4%
Above poverty level
122,473
Below poverty level
19,979
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 122,473 86% -0.8%
Below poverty level 19,979 14% 10.5%

Employment in Greater Muskegon

Workforce and job types in Greater Muskegon

67.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8% run their own businesses, 71.5% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
44,786
Blue collar
21,427
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 44,786 67.6% 2.3%
Blue collar 21,427 32.4% -0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
8%
Private companies
71.5%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,305 8% 4.1%
Private companies 47,315 71.5% -0.1%
Governmental workers 7,606 11.5% 6.4%
Not for profit companies 5,987 9% 4.2%

Transportation in Greater Muskegon

How people get around in Greater Muskegon

In Greater Muskegon, the average commute time is 75 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 98.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
75 min
-39.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 58,435 98.2% -0.6%
Taxicab 55 0.1% 3.8%
Bus or trolleybus 27 0% -65.8%
Motorcycle 51 0.1% 6.2%
Bicycle 119 0.2% 32.2%
Walk 845 1.4% 1.2%
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 Muskegon by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49415 6,330 2,602 $81,908 $106,090
49425 3,520 1,258 $62,841 $79,642
49437 6,895 2,652 $82,805 $106,422
49440 1,492 761 $46,808 $79,290
49441 36,779 14,976 $67,427 $81,218
49442 44,766 16,417 $48,563 $61,866
49444 26,372 10,192 $53,054 $70,248
49445 21,289 8,225 $84,877 $103,285
49303 772 239 $78,917 $87,888
49318 1,604 518 $81,591 $97,080

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FAQs about Greater Muskegon demographics 

What is the total population of Greater Muskegon?

Greater Muskegon has a total population of 148,533 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Greater Muskegon?

The gender ratio in Greater Muskegon is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (74,101 residents)
  • 50.1% females (74,432 residents)

What is the median age in Greater Muskegon?

The median age in Greater Muskegon is 39.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Greater Muskegon?

The age distribution in Greater Muskegon is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.6% (27,689 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (17,691 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.9% (38,428 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.5% (37,835 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.1% (26,889 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Muskegon?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Muskegon is as follows:
  • White: 77.1% (114,521 residents)
  • Black or African American: 12.2% (18,042 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (827 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (963 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (82 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.5% (12,577 residents)
  • Other: 1% (1,521 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.5% of the population in Greater Muskegon.

How many housing units are there in Greater Muskegon?

There are 63,175 housing units in Greater Muskegon, 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 Greater Muskegon and what is the average household size?

Greater Muskegon has a total of 56,791 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Greater Muskegon?

Greater Muskegon has a median household income of $78,225, representing a +13.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Greater Muskegon?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.6% (44,786 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.4% (21,427 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8% (5,305 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.5% (47,315 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (7,606 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (5,987 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