Central Lake, MI
Population 976 · Michigan
About Central Lake, MI
Central Lake is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 976 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $58,900 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.2 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Central Lake features a median home value of $152,800, which is 38% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Central Lake in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $994, 15% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 538 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (268 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (76 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Central Lake shows an unemployment rate of 2.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 8.7%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Central Lake have an average one-way commute time of 23.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
23.7% of Central Lake 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, 2.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.2% Asian residents, with 0.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Central Lake, MI
Compared to national averages, Central Lake has a median household income of $58,900 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $152,800, which is 38% below the national median. Monthly rent at $994 is 15% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Central Lake's income is 11% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 17% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Central Lake, MI?
Central Lake offers affordable housing with a median home value of $152,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $994/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.5%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 8.7%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 23.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,900) that falls below the national average. However, Central Lake’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Central Lake has a population of 976 with a median age of 31.2 years. Compare Central Lake with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Central Lake
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hubbard Lake | 976 | $67,841 | $272,300 | Compare |
| Lewiston | 980 | $41,266 | $159,100 | Compare |
| Mayville | 971 | $50,735 | $108,700 | Compare |
| Au Gres | 982 | $65,852 | $154,300 | Compare |
| Hubbell | 970 | $49,545 | $77,100 | Compare |
| Napoleon | 969 | $50,722 | $123,500 | Compare |
| Crystal | 966 | $50,278 | $192,500 | Compare |
| Otisville | 955 | $60,500 | $102,300 | 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 Central Lake
What is the population of Central Lake, MI?
The population of Central Lake, MI is 976 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 Central Lake?
The median household income in Central Lake, MI is $58,900 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Central Lake?
The median home value in Central Lake, MI is $152,800, which is 38% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Central Lake?
The median monthly rent in Central Lake, MI is $994, which is 15% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Central Lake?
The unemployment rate in Central Lake, MI is 2.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Central Lake, MI a good place to live?
Central Lake offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 976 and a median age of 31.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Central Lake, MI?
23.7% of residents in Central Lake 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 Central Lake?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Central Lake, MI: median home value is $152,800 (38% below national), median rent is $994/month, and median household income is $58,900. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Central Lake?
The poverty rate in Central Lake, MI is 8.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Central Lake, MI?
Central Lake's population is 0.0% White, 2.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 0.5% of residents are foreign-born.