Belding, MI
Population 5,949 · Michigan
About Belding, MI
Belding is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 5,949 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,895 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Belding features a median home value of $152,700, which is 38% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Belding in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $693, 40% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,280 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (1,459 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (695 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Belding shows an unemployment rate of 6.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Belding have an average one-way commute time of 27.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.0% of Belding residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 6.8% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 0.2% Asian residents, with 1.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Belding, MI
Compared to national averages, Belding has a median household income of $55,895 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $152,700, which is 38% below the national median. Monthly rent at $693 is 40% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Belding's income is 15% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 17% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Belding, MI?
Belding offers affordable housing with a median home value of $152,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $693/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,895) that falls below the national average. However, Belding’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Belding has a population of 5,949 with a median age of 37.2 years. Compare Belding with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Belding
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holly | 5,971 | $61,221 | $174,900 | Compare |
| Buena Vista | 5,904 | $38,835 | $51,800 | Compare |
| Swartz Creek | 5,856 | $73,862 | $168,900 | Compare |
| Petoskey | 5,851 | $71,783 | $319,300 | Compare |
| Richmond | 5,839 | $61,715 | $228,000 | Compare |
| Milan | 6,070 | $93,016 | $233,700 | Compare |
| Northville | 6,080 | $143,875 | $455,100 | Compare |
| Houghton Lake | 5,761 | $50,861 | $122,800 | 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.
Compare Belding With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Belding
What is the population of Belding, MI?
The population of Belding, MI is 5,949 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Belding?
The median household income in Belding, MI is $55,895 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Belding?
The median home value in Belding, MI is $152,700, which is 38% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Belding?
The median monthly rent in Belding, MI is $693, which is 40% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Belding?
The unemployment rate in Belding, MI is 6.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Belding, MI a good place to live?
Belding offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 5,949 and a median age of 37.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Belding, MI?
15.0% of residents in Belding aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Belding?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Belding, MI: median home value is $152,700 (38% below national), median rent is $693/month, and median household income is $55,895. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Belding?
The poverty rate in Belding, MI is 17.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Belding, MI?
Belding's population is 6.8% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 1.2% two or more races. 1.7% of residents are foreign-born.