Benzie County, Michigan Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Benzie County is located in Michigan with a total population of 18,177. It is the 65th most populous county out of 83 in Michigan. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Benzie County is 50.6 years. This is 26% higher than the state median of 40.1 years. 11.3% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Benzie County is $72,603. This is 2% higher than the state median of $71,149. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 8% lower. The poverty rate stands at 10.2%. This is 22% lower than the state poverty rate of 13.1%. The unemployment rate is 4.1%. This is 29% lower than the state rate of 5.8%. The median home value is $254,400. Housing costs are 17% higher than the state median of $217,600. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.5x. 87.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 20% higher than the state average of 72.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

Benzie County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 91.6% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.4%. The Black or African American population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 13.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (2.4%) is well below the state average of 5.7%. The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 3.3%.

Education

34.3% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 8% higher than the state rate of 31.8%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 93.9%.