Gladwin County, Michigan Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Gladwin County is located in Michigan with a total population of 25,543. It is the 55th most populous county out of 83 in Michigan. The county encompasses 2 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Gladwin County is 50.8 years. This is 27% higher than the state median of 40.1 years. 10.5% 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 Gladwin County is $55,576. This is 22% lower than the state median of $71,149. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 29% lower. The poverty rate stands at 13.2%. This is 1% higher than the state poverty rate of 13.1%. The unemployment rate is 6.2%. This is 7% higher than the state rate of 5.8%. The median home value is $153,200. Housing costs are 30% lower than the state median of $217,600. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.8x, Gladwin County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 87.1% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 19% higher than the state average of 72.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

Gladwin County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 93.4% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.1%. The Black or African American population (0.3%) is well below the state average of 13.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (2.1%) is well below the state average of 5.7%. The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 3.3%.

Education

15.4% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is among the lowest rates in the state, which may correlate with employment and income patterns. This is 51% lower 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 88.9%.