Chesaning, MI
Population 2,411 · Michigan
About Chesaning, MI
Chesaning is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 2,411 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $57,426 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44.3 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 Chesaning features a median home value of $123,900, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Chesaning one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $679, 42% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,072 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (687 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (318 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Chesaning shows an unemployment rate of 7.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Chesaning have an average one-way commute time of 19.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
17.7% of Chesaning 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, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 1.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Chesaning, MI
Compared to national averages, Chesaning has a median household income of $57,426 (24% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $123,900, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $679 is 42% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Chesaning's income is 13% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 32% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Chesaning, MI?
Chesaning offers affordable housing with a median home value of $123,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $679/month, and short commute times averaging just 19.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($57,426) that falls below the national average. However, Chesaning’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Chesaning has a population of 2,411 with a median age of 44.3 years. Compare Chesaning with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Chesaning
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Ignace | 2,409 | $60,735 | $127,800 | Compare |
| Charlevoix | 2,420 | $52,344 | $294,400 | Compare |
| Hudson | 2,385 | $57,500 | $103,100 | Compare |
| Spring Arbor | 2,385 | $77,721 | $213,100 | Compare |
| Bridgman | 2,383 | $71,435 | $228,800 | Compare |
| Manchester | 2,375 | $81,393 | $222,700 | Compare |
| Kalkaska | 2,370 | $42,955 | $121,300 | Compare |
| Edgemont Park | 2,367 | $62,120 | $161,800 | 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 Chesaning With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Chesaning
What is the population of Chesaning, MI?
The population of Chesaning, MI is 2,411 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 Chesaning?
The median household income in Chesaning, MI is $57,426 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Chesaning?
The median home value in Chesaning, MI is $123,900, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Chesaning?
The median monthly rent in Chesaning, MI is $679, which is 42% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Chesaning?
The unemployment rate in Chesaning, MI is 7.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Chesaning, MI a good place to live?
Chesaning offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,411 and a median age of 44.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Chesaning, MI?
17.7% of residents in Chesaning 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 Chesaning?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Chesaning, MI: median home value is $123,900 (49% below national), median rent is $679/month, and median household income is $57,426. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Chesaning?
The poverty rate in Chesaning, MI is 15.0%, 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 Chesaning, MI?
Chesaning's population is 1.5% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 0.2% two or more races. 1.2% of residents are foreign-born.