Alpena, MI
Population 10,178 · Michigan
About Alpena, MI
Alpena is a mid-sized city in Michigan with a population of 10,178 residents. The median household income is $47,604 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Alpena is 45.2 years.
Housing in Alpena has a median home value of $110,400 and median monthly rent of $599. Of the 5,444 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 3,159 owner-occupied and 1,697 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Alpena is 8.8% and the poverty rate is 19.2%. 15.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 11.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Alpena, MI
Compared to national averages, Alpena has a median household income of $47,604 (37% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $110,400, which is 55% below the national median. Monthly rent at $599 is 48% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Alpena's income is 28% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 40% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Alpena, MI?
Alpena offers affordable housing with a median home value of $110,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $599/month, and short commute times averaging just 11.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,604) that falls below the national average. However, Alpena’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Alpena has a population of 10,178 with a median age of 45.2 years. Compare Alpena with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Alpena
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Howell | 10,074 | $57,122 | $240,700 | Compare |
| Comstock Park | 10,306 | $54,871 | $216,600 | Compare |
| Grosse Pointe Farms | 9,957 | $160,589 | $418,600 | Compare |
| Cadillac | 10,404 | $50,512 | $117,500 | Compare |
| Marysville | 9,942 | $69,661 | $185,500 | Compare |
| Flat Rock | 10,418 | $73,288 | $201,400 | Compare |
| Muskegon Heights | 9,902 | $33,780 | $55,800 | Compare |
| Beverly Hills | 10,507 | $175,460 | $488,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Michigan
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Alpena
What is the population of Alpena, MI?
The population of Alpena, MI is 10,178 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Alpena?
The median household income in Alpena, MI is $47,604 per year.
What is the median home value in Alpena?
The median home value in Alpena, MI is $110,400.
What is the average rent in Alpena?
The median monthly rent in Alpena, MI is $599.
What is the unemployment rate in Alpena?
The unemployment rate in Alpena, MI is 8.8%.