Big Bay, MI
Population 307 · Michigan
About Big Bay, MI
Big Bay is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 307 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,672 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 53.2 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Big Bay features a median home value of $261,400, which is 7% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Big Bay in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 292 total housing units, 82% are owner-occupied (108 units) and 18% are renter-occupied (23 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Big Bay shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 22.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Big Bay have an average one-way commute time of 24.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
37.9% of Big Bay residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Big Bay, MI
Compared to national averages, Big Bay has a median household income of $48,672 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $261,400, which is 7% above the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Big Bay's income is 26% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 43% above the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Big Bay, MI?
Big Bay offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%, and a well-educated community where 37.9% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 24.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,672) that falls below the national average. However, Big Bay’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Big Bay has a population of 307 with a median age of 53.2 years. Compare Big Bay with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Big Bay
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alba | 304 | $91,458 | $48,600 | Compare |
| Eastlake | 304 | $50,139 | $117,900 | Compare |
| Akron | 312 | $57,500 | $75,500 | Compare |
| Beal City | 312 | $73,333 | $200,600 | Compare |
| Glen Arbor | 313 | $178,750 | $690,200 | Compare |
| Boyne Falls | 315 | $46,250 | $160,400 | Compare |
| Breedsville | 315 | $76,250 | $210,300 | Compare |
| Dodgeville | 298 | $92,188 | $209,600 | 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 Big Bay With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Big Bay
What is the population of Big Bay, MI?
The population of Big Bay, MI is 307 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Big Bay?
The median household income in Big Bay, MI is $48,672 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Big Bay?
The median home value in Big Bay, MI is $261,400, which is 7% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Big Bay?
The median monthly rent in Big Bay, MI is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Big Bay?
The unemployment rate in Big Bay, MI is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Big Bay, MI a good place to live?
Big Bay offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 307 and a median age of 53.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Big Bay, MI?
37.9% of residents in Big Bay aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Big Bay?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Big Bay, MI: median home value is $261,400 (7% above national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $48,672. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.4x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Big Bay?
The poverty rate in Big Bay, MI is 22.0%, 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 Big Bay, MI?
Big Bay's population is 0.0% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.