Brethren, MI
Population 405 · Michigan
About Brethren, MI
Brethren is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 405 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $42,434 per year, which is 44% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Brethren features a median home value of $104,500, which is 57% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Brethren one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 204 total housing units, 95% are owner-occupied (139 units) and 5% are renter-occupied (8 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Brethren 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 17.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Brethren have an average one-way commute time of 24.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.0% of Brethren 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 1.5% White, 2.7% 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 Brethren, MI
Compared to national averages, Brethren has a median household income of $42,434 (44% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $104,500, which is 57% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Brethren's income is 36% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 43% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Brethren, MI?
Brethren offers affordable housing with a median home value of $104,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 24.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($42,434) that falls below the national average. However, Brethren’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Brethren has a population of 405 with a median age of 41.3 years. Compare Brethren with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Brethren
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barryton | 405 | $47,857 | $77,900 | Compare |
| Estral Beach | 406 | $63,462 | $207,900 | Compare |
| White Pine | 404 | $39,792 | $59,700 | Compare |
| Carp Lake | 407 | $27,318 | $170,800 | Compare |
| Clarksville | 403 | $69,375 | $169,800 | Compare |
| Lost Lake Woods | 407 | $69,375 | $172,000 | Compare |
| Palo | 409 | $34,403 | $92,600 | Compare |
| Kingston | 398 | $46,964 | $88,800 | 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 Brethren With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Brethren
What is the population of Brethren, MI?
The population of Brethren, MI is 405 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 Brethren?
The median household income in Brethren, MI is $42,434 per year, which is 44% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Brethren?
The median home value in Brethren, MI is $104,500, which is 57% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Brethren?
The median monthly rent in Brethren, MI is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Brethren?
The unemployment rate in Brethren, 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 Brethren, MI a good place to live?
Brethren offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 405 and a median age of 41.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Brethren, MI?
8.0% of residents in Brethren 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 Brethren?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Brethren, MI: median home value is $104,500 (57% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $42,434. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Brethren?
The poverty rate in Brethren, MI is 17.0%, 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 Brethren, MI?
Brethren's population is 1.5% White, 2.7% 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.