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photo courtesy of Ottawa County

Ottawa County Population Saw Continued Growth in 2025

By Mary Ellen Murphy Apr 21, 2026 | 6:26 AM

Ottawa County, MI (WGHN) – The U.S. Census Bureau just released its latest population estimates, and the numbers show Ottawa County is still on the rise.

The county’s population is now estimated at 308,459—that’s about 2,200 more people than last year alone. That growth comes from a mix of more births than deaths, along with people continuing to move into the area.

Zoom out a bit, and the trend becomes even clearer. Since 2020, Ottawa County has added more than 11,500 residents, holding onto its spot as the seventh-largest county in Michigan.

It’s not just growing—it’s growing faster than most. Between 2020 and 2025, the county’s population climbed nearly 4%, making it the 10th fastest-growing county in the state. And when you look at Michigan’s biggest counties, Ottawa actually leads the pack in growth.

Nearby, Kent County and Livingston County are also seeing gains, but at a slower pace—growing about 2.5% and 1.7% over that same stretch.

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