Ontonagon County, Michigan Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Ontonagon County is located in Michigan with a total population of 5,870. It is the 82nd most populous county out of 83 in Michigan.

Age Demographics

The median age in Ontonagon County is 59.4 years. This is 48% higher than the state median of 40.1 years. Only 11.6% of residents are under 18, indicating fewer families with children. 15.6% 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 Ontonagon County is $51,844. This is 27% lower than the state median of $71,149. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 34% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.6%. This is 4% lower than the state poverty rate of 13.1%. The unemployment rate is 7.6%. This is 31% higher than the state rate of 5.8%. The median home value is $101,000. Housing costs are 54% lower than the state median of $217,600. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.9x, Ontonagon County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 87.3% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 20% higher than the state average of 72.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

Ontonagon County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 93.1% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.7%. The Black or African American population (0.8%) is well below the state average of 13.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.7%) is well below the state average of 5.7%. The Asian population (0.5%) is well below the state average of 3.3%.

Education

16.7% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 47% 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 94.1%.