Brighton, MI
Population 7,576 · Michigan
About Brighton, MI
Brighton is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 7,576 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $81,772 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 46.7 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 Brighton features a median home value of $302,800, which is 24% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Brighton in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,248, 7% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,967 total housing units, 67% are owner-occupied (2,490 units) and 33% are renter-occupied (1,241 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Brighton shows an unemployment rate of 2.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Brighton have an average one-way commute time of 24.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
47.3% of Brighton residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 1.3% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 5.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Brighton, MI
Compared to national averages, Brighton has a median household income of $81,772 (9% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $302,800, which is 24% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,248 is 7% above the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Brighton's income is 24% above the state average of $66,017, and home values are 65% above the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Brighton, MI?
Brighton offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $81,772, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.7%, and a well-educated community where 47.3% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 6.1%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24.2 minutes.
Brighton has a population of 7,576 with a median age of 46.7 years. Compare Brighton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Brighton
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freeland | 7,562 | $103,431 | $241,400 | Compare |
| Albion | 7,608 | $40,040 | $91,100 | Compare |
| Hastings | 7,515 | $56,309 | $159,000 | Compare |
| Iron Mountain | 7,508 | $56,622 | $117,600 | Compare |
| Ludington | 7,664 | $44,471 | $192,800 | Compare |
| Hudsonville | 7,711 | $88,606 | $260,500 | Compare |
| St. Johns | 7,712 | $63,030 | $175,300 | Compare |
| Grand Ledge | 7,797 | $66,515 | $189,300 | 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 Brighton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Brighton
What is the population of Brighton, MI?
The population of Brighton, MI is 7,576 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 Brighton?
The median household income in Brighton, MI is $81,772 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Brighton?
The median home value in Brighton, MI is $302,800, which is 24% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Brighton?
The median monthly rent in Brighton, MI is $1,248, which is 7% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Brighton?
The unemployment rate in Brighton, MI is 2.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Brighton, MI a good place to live?
Brighton offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 7,576 and a median age of 46.7, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Brighton, MI?
47.3% of residents in Brighton 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 Brighton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Brighton, MI: median home value is $302,800 (24% above national), median rent is $1,248/month, and median household income is $81,772. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Brighton?
The poverty rate in Brighton, MI is 6.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Brighton, MI?
Brighton's population is 1.3% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.1% two or more races. 5.6% of residents are foreign-born.