Benton Harbor, MI
Population 9,023 · Michigan
About Benton Harbor, MI
Benton Harbor is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 9,023 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $29,652 per year, which is 61% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.2 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Benton Harbor features a median home value of $75,500, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Benton Harbor one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $775, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,324 total housing units, 36% are owner-occupied (1,364 units) and 64% are renter-occupied (2,375 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Benton Harbor shows an unemployment rate of 20.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 41.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Benton Harbor have an average one-way commute time of 18.3 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
7.8% of Benton Harbor 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 4.9% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.1% Asian residents, with 1.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Benton Harbor Ranks in Michigan
Cost of Living in Benton Harbor, MI
Compared to national averages, Benton Harbor has a median household income of $29,652 (61% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $75,500, which is 69% below the national median. Monthly rent at $775 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Benton Harbor's income is 55% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 59% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Benton Harbor, MI?
Benton Harbor offers affordable housing with a median home value of $75,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $775/month, and short commute times averaging just 18.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($29,652) that falls below the national average. However, Benton Harbor’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Benton Harbor has a population of 9,023 with a median age of 33.2 years. Compare Benton Harbor with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Benton Harbor
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lapeer | 9,053 | $53,038 | $165,300 | Compare |
| Saline | 8,976 | $90,662 | $310,600 | Compare |
| Westwood | 8,968 | $62,408 | $187,300 | Compare |
| Greenville | 8,897 | $55,477 | $160,600 | Compare |
| Ecorse | 9,170 | $45,082 | $59,400 | Compare |
| Plymouth | 9,234 | $111,742 | $418,200 | Compare |
| Highland Park | 8,798 | $27,582 | $75,800 | Compare |
| Charlotte | 9,269 | $63,385 | $140,500 | 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 Benton Harbor With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Benton Harbor
What is the population of Benton Harbor, MI?
The population of Benton Harbor, MI is 9,023 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 Benton Harbor?
The median household income in Benton Harbor, MI is $29,652 per year, which is 61% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Benton Harbor?
The median home value in Benton Harbor, MI is $75,500, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Benton Harbor?
The median monthly rent in Benton Harbor, MI is $775, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Benton Harbor?
The unemployment rate in Benton Harbor, MI is 20.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Benton Harbor, MI a good place to live?
Benton Harbor offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 9,023 and a median age of 33.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Benton Harbor, MI?
7.8% of residents in Benton Harbor 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 Benton Harbor?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Benton Harbor, MI: median home value is $75,500 (69% below national), median rent is $775/month, and median household income is $29,652. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Benton Harbor?
The poverty rate in Benton Harbor, MI is 41.9%, 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 Benton Harbor, MI?
Benton Harbor's population is 4.9% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, and 80.2% two or more races. 1.1% of residents are foreign-born.