Houghton County, Michigan Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Houghton County is located in Michigan with a total population of 37,428. It is the 42nd most populous county out of 83 in Michigan. The county encompasses 2 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Houghton County is 32.3 years. This is 19% lower than the state median of 40.1 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Houghton County is $56,573. This is 20% lower than the state median of $71,149. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 28% lower. The poverty rate stands at 15.9%. This is 22% higher than the state poverty rate of 13.1%. The unemployment rate is 5.7%. This is 3% lower than the state rate of 5.8%. The median home value is $140,300. Housing costs are 36% lower than the state median of $217,600. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.5x, Houghton County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 71.2% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 2% lower than the state average of 72.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

Houghton County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 91.2% of all residents. Asian residents account for 2.8%. The Black or African American population (1.1%) is well below the state average of 13.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.8%) is well below the state average of 5.7%.

Education

36.6% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 15% 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 94.5%. Notably, 16.1% of adults hold a graduate or professional degree, indicating a highly educated workforce.