Lansing Region Population Study
A 25-year look at where the tri-county region is headed and what it means for your community. The data is clear. What happens next is up to us.
The big picture Growth is happening, but not where we need it most
The region is projected to add 28,000 residents by 2050, outperforming a state that is expected to shrink. But almost all of that growth is in the senior population, while young workers, families, and school-age children are declining. That imbalance has real consequences.
+28K
Net new residents projected by 2050
5.9%
Regional growth rate vs. Michigan's projected -2%
-10K
Projected loss of residents ages 20-34
2.7%
Current housing availability (5% is healthy)
By 2050, the region is projected to add 30,000 seniors while losing 10,000 young workers and 14,000 school-age children.
POPULATION AGE SHIFT We are growing older faster than we are growing
The region is projected to add 28,000 residents by 2050, outperforming a state that is expected to shrink. But almost all of that growth is in the senior population, while young workers, families, and school-age children are declining. That imbalance has real consequences.
DECLINING — WORKING-AGE ADULTS (20-44)
| Clinton County | -7% |
| Eaton County | -7% |
| Ingham County | -4% |
GROWING RAPIDLY — SENIORS (65+)
| Clinton County | +38% |
| Eaton County | +37% |
| Ingham County | +14% |
WHAT'S AT STAKE Three areas feeling the pressure now
-15%
School-age kids
School-age population declined 12% from 2010 to 2023 and is projected to fall another 15% by 2050, putting pressure on funding, staffing, and facilities.
2.7%
Available housing inventory
Availability is nearly half of what economists consider healthy, making it harder for young workers and families to move into the region.
+30K
Elderly population
A rapidly growing senior population means significantly higher demand for healthcare, transportation, and accessible housing.
LEAP'S RESPONSE This is a challenge and an opportunity
These are projections, not certainties. LEAP's 2050 Economic Vision and 2030 Strategy are designed to move the needle on the metrics that matter most, and community leaders have a seat at that table.
01
Industry investment and jobs diversification
02
Small business & Entrepreneurship support
03
Talent attraction, retention, and workforce development
04
Place-based development and vibrant communities
COMMUNITY PROFILES Download your community's report
Each community has a dedicated profile covering population trends, school enrollment, housing, employment, and more.
Clinton County
Eaton County
Ingham County
GET INVOLVED Bring this conversation to your community
LEAP's regional growth team will come to you. We'll walk through what the data means for your specific community and how the 2030 Strategy creates a path forward, together.
- Population study results and what they mean locally
- Challenges and opportunities specific to your area
- How LEAP can support your community's growth goals
- How to be part of shaping the region's 2050 Vision
