[3] As of the census[1] of 2000, there were 2,741 people, 1,206 households, and 811 families residing in the township.

There were 1,763 housing units at an average density of 247.8 per square mile (95.7/km2).

The racial makeup of the township was 97.67% White, 0.22% African American, 0.80% Native American, 0.26% Asian, 0.15% Pacific Islander, 0.40% from other races, and 0.51% from two or more races.

29.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

The cabin in the woods from the Evil Dead franchise - named Knowby Cabin by one of its owners - is located just outside Elk Rapids Township.