As we enter 2025, Grand Traverse County, Michigan, presents a compelling statistical snapshot that highlights significant demographic and economic trends. The county's population has experienced remarkable growth, increasing 246% from 39,175 in 1970 to 96,421 in 2023. In contrast, Michigan's overall population grew only 2% from 2010 to 2020, emphasizing the unique growth trajectory of this region [5189736d].
Garfield Township has emerged as a notable area within the county, boasting a population of 20,032, which surpasses that of Traverse City, which has 15,707 residents. The demographic composition of Grand Traverse County is predominantly Non-Hispanic White, making up 91.8% of the population, with a median age of 43.1 years. Notably, seniors aged 65 and older account for 22.8% of the population, indicating a significant aging demographic [5189736d].
The county's economy is robust, with approximately 48,500 individuals employed across various sectors. The largest industries include Health Care and Social Assistance, employing 8,051 people, and Retail Trade, which has 6,514 employees. Tourism plays a crucial role in the local economy, contributing an impressive $1.4 billion in economic impact [5189736d].
However, the housing market presents challenges, with an average home value of $393,322 and a shortage of 7,900 for-sale residences and 3,600 rental units. Additionally, 30% of renters are spending nearly 50% of their income on housing, highlighting a pressing social issue within the community [5189736d].
