RANK #86 / 996 · POP 282,540 · MI
PROJECTED GROWTH: +3.0%
Home to Michigan State University, Ingham County offers a blend of academic energy and community living in Mid-Michigan. The county seat is Mason, though Lansing, the state capital, is largely within Ingham County, a unique arrangement as Lansing is not its own county seat. Commuting within the county is facilitated by the Capital Area Transportation Authority (CATA), which provides fixed routes, curb-to-curb services, and specialized transportation options. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and winter sports at various parks, including Burchfield Park and Lake Lansing North.
Life in Ingham County appeals to a mix of families, young professionals, and those connected to Michigan State University. The public school districts, such as Okemos, East Lansing, and Williamston, are recognized for their quality. The economy is diverse, with significant employment in educational services and healthcare. Recent economic developments include investments in advanced manufacturing and medical technology, alongside initiatives to address affordable housing.
Well below national median
Harsh climate or flat terrain
Housing looks undervalued at 2.6x — home prices are low relative to local economic output. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
| PROJECT | AMOUNT | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Ingham County Solar Project
Undisclosed Developer (filed with MPSC)
|
$150M | Proposed |
|
Acceleration Solar Project
Ranger Power
|
$100M | Proposed |
|
T B Simon Power Plant (Natural Gas)
Michigan State University
|
$50M | Operating |
|
Kalamink Wind Project
Apex Clean Energy
|
$50M | Proposed |
|
Holmes & Pleasant Grove Housing Development
Ingham County Land Bank
|
$50M | Planned |
Source: public records, news, corporate announcements. Amounts are estimates where noted.
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Ingham County has a Boom Town Index score of 92/100, ranking #86 among 996 U.S. counties. With job growth at +1.2% and a median household income of $62,548, it's an above-average county on economic indicators.
The median home value in Ingham County is $173,600 with median rent at $1,027/month. The income-to-home-value ratio is 0.3603, which is more affordable than the national average.
Population growth: -1.1% year-over-year. Job growth: +1.2%. Home values changed +3.9% in the past 12 months.
Yes — 7.25% of Ingham County's population moved from another state, which is above the national average and indicates strong in-migration.