Carleton, MI
Population 2,635 · Michigan
About Carleton, MI
Carleton is a small community in Michigan with a population of 2,635 residents. The median household income is $63,826 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Carleton is 38.8 years.
Housing in Carleton has a median home value of $177,800 and median monthly rent of $871. Of the 1,044 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 766 owner-occupied and 219 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Carleton is 6.0% and the poverty rate is 11.0%. 9.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 31.3 minutes.
Cost of Living in Carleton, MI
Compared to national averages, Carleton has a median household income of $63,826 (15% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $177,800, which is 27% below the national median. Monthly rent at $871 is 25% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Carleton's income is 3% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 3% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Carleton, MI?
Carleton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $177,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $871/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.0%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,826) that falls below the national average. However, Carleton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Carleton has a population of 2,635 with a median age of 38.8 years. Compare Carleton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Carleton
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montague | 2,630 | $69,375 | $184,700 | Compare |
| Mattawan | 2,615 | $82,026 | $177,500 | Compare |
| Franklin | 2,610 | $176,571 | $696,700 | Compare |
| Pleasant Ridge | 2,607 | $161,058 | $435,500 | Compare |
| Croswell | 2,667 | $55,101 | $136,500 | Compare |
| Village of Grosse Pointe Shores | 2,589 | $182,000 | $671,600 | Compare |
| East Tawas | 2,686 | $41,619 | $114,400 | Compare |
| Sandusky | 2,692 | $60,625 | $112,300 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Carleton
What is the population of Carleton, MI?
The population of Carleton, MI is 2,635 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Carleton?
The median household income in Carleton, MI is $63,826 per year.
What is the median home value in Carleton?
The median home value in Carleton, MI is $177,800.
What is the average rent in Carleton?
The median monthly rent in Carleton, MI is $871.
What is the unemployment rate in Carleton?
The unemployment rate in Carleton, MI is 6.0%.