Brown City, MI
Population 1,211 · Michigan
About Brown City, MI
Brown City is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 1,211 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,357 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.8 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Brown City features a median home value of $121,400, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Brown City one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $805, 31% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 520 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (347 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (155 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Brown City shows an unemployment rate of 9.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Brown City have an average one-way commute time of 33.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.0% of Brown City 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 6.2% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Brown City, MI
Compared to national averages, Brown City has a median household income of $60,357 (20% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $121,400, which is 50% below the national median. Monthly rent at $805 is 31% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Brown City's income is 9% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 34% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Brown City, MI?
Brown City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $121,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $805/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,357) that falls below the national average. However, Brown City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Brown City has a population of 1,211 with a median age of 41.8 years. Compare Brown City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Brown City
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weidman | 1,217 | $49,545 | $104,200 | Compare |
| Kent City | 1,218 | $74,375 | $134,100 | Compare |
| Luna Pier | 1,204 | $51,830 | $176,000 | Compare |
| North Branch | 1,199 | $42,500 | $121,400 | Compare |
| Grass Lake | 1,235 | $74,306 | $199,400 | Compare |
| Stockbridge | 1,235 | $49,875 | $184,200 | Compare |
| Birch Run | 1,236 | $65,313 | $185,900 | Compare |
| Lawrence | 1,186 | $36,188 | $106,700 | 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 Brown City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Brown City
What is the population of Brown City, MI?
The population of Brown City, MI is 1,211 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 Brown City?
The median household income in Brown City, MI is $60,357 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Brown City?
The median home value in Brown City, MI is $121,400, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Brown City?
The median monthly rent in Brown City, MI is $805, which is 31% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Brown City?
The unemployment rate in Brown City, MI is 9.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Brown City, MI a good place to live?
Brown City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,211 and a median age of 41.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Brown City, MI?
12.0% of residents in Brown City 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 Brown City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Brown City, MI: median home value is $121,400 (50% below national), median rent is $805/month, and median household income is $60,357. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Brown City?
The poverty rate in Brown City, 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 Brown City, MI?
Brown City's population is 6.2% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 0.7% of residents are foreign-born.