Muskegon County, Michigan Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Muskegon County is located in Michigan with a total population of 175,378. It is the 12th most populous county out of 83 in Michigan. The county encompasses 7 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Muskegon County is 39.9 years. This is about average than the state median of 40.1 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Muskegon County is $63,495. This is 11% lower than the state median of $71,149. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 19% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.6%. This is 3% lower than the state poverty rate of 13.1%. The unemployment rate is 6.8%. This is 18% higher than the state rate of 5.8%. The median home value is $180,900. Housing costs are 17% lower than the state median of $217,600. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.8x, Muskegon County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 78.3% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 7% higher than the state average of 72.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Muskegon County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 75.3% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 12.6%. The Asian population (0.6%) is well below the state average of 3.3%.

Education

21.4% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 32% 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 92.5%.