| Statistic | Alpena | Michigan | National |
| Population | 9,987 | 9,986,857 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,222 | 178 | 91 |
| Median age | 44.1 | 39.5 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 51% | 55% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 44% | 41% | 43% |
| Speak English | 98% | 91% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 1% | 3% | 13% |
Understanding the demographics of Alpena is essential for gaining insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of any city, town or village. This knowledge empowers planners, developers and policymakers to strategize effectively, promoting prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Alpena population is 9,987, with a population density of 1,222 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 44.1, and 51% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 44% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Alpena, 32% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 6% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.
Understanding the Alpena racial demographics and ethnic composition is paramount for addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and fortifying communities. In Alpena, the racial breakdown indicates 95.7% White, 1.3% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, 0.2% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 3.1% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Notably, 97.8% of households reported speaking English only, while 0.9% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 0.9% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.
Communities such as Alpena, with population densities higher than the average, play a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability by decreasing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Their compact urban development encourages the adoption of energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling, and public transportation, fostering sustainable lifestyles and minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, densely populated areas tend to cultivate vibrant social and cultural scenes, fueled by a diverse population that contributes to a myriad of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity sparks creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. Alpena has a population density of 1,222, surpassing the national average of 91 people per square mile, as it stands poised to reap the benefits of dense urban living.
Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics can inform policy and decision-making processes at various levels of government, as well as in organizations and businesses. By reporting and analyzing Alpena demographics data, policymakers, government officials and organizational leaders can identify areas of need, allocate resources effectively and develop targeted policies and programs that address the specific needs and priorities of different demographic groups. Alpena demographics can play a crucial role in policy planning by informing resource allocation, evidence-based decision making, identifying priorities, forecasting future trends, monitoring policy impact and promoting equity and inclusion. By leveraging this data effectively, policymakers can develop policies that are targeted, effective and responsive to the needs of diverse communities.
Healthcare Planning: By analyzing the Alpena demographic data, it can potentially inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities, and risk factors. Understanding demographic trends helps healthcare providers and policymakers allocate resources, develop prevention and intervention programs, and address health inequities within communities. By leveraging demographic data, healthcare providers and policymakers can work towards achieving equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive approach to healthcare planning ensures that interventions are targeted, resources are allocated efficiently, and healthcare services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of populations.
Urban Development: Urban planners can leverage demographics data in Alpena to design and develop areas that cater to residents' needs, spanning housing, transportation, and public services, while prioritizing sustainability and enhancing quality of life. Demographic changes can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood evolution, whether in urban or rural contexts. As neighborhoods attract new residents with diverse income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing longstanding residents and reshaping the neighborhood's identity. Understanding population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is essential for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Incorporating Alpena demographics data into planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks.
| Race | Alpena | Michigan | National |
| White | 95.72% | 78.89% | 73.35% |
| Black | 1.27% | 13.89% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.14% | 2.79% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.21% | 0.53% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.03% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 2.54% | 2.74% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.11% | 1.12% | 4.75% |
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