Clare, MI
Population 3,341 · Michigan
About Clare, MI
Clare is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 3,341 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $43,105 per year, which is 43% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.9 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 Clare features a median home value of $124,800, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Clare one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $792, 32% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,665 total housing units, 56% are owner-occupied (792 units) and 44% are renter-occupied (617 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Clare shows an unemployment rate of 7.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 19.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Clare have an average one-way commute time of 22.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.9% of Clare 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 2.8% White, 3.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.1% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Clare, MI
Compared to national averages, Clare has a median household income of $43,105 (43% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $124,800, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $792 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Clare's income is 35% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 32% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Clare, MI?
Clare offers affordable housing with a median home value of $124,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $792/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($43,105) that falls below the national average. However, Clare’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Clare has a population of 3,341 with a median age of 43.9 years. Compare Clare with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Clare
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essexville | 3,344 | $76,182 | $121,200 | Compare |
| Level Park-Oak Park | 3,367 | $70,051 | $128,100 | Compare |
| Paw Paw | 3,277 | $38,989 | $133,600 | Compare |
| Blissfield | 3,236 | $62,386 | $164,600 | Compare |
| Oxford | 3,478 | $88,214 | $351,300 | Compare |
| Durand | 3,485 | $60,032 | $123,900 | Compare |
| Rockwood | 3,189 | $85,391 | $180,000 | Compare |
| Mount Morris | 3,130 | $42,886 | $79,500 | 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 Clare With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Clare
What is the population of Clare, MI?
The population of Clare, MI is 3,341 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 Clare?
The median household income in Clare, MI is $43,105 per year, which is 43% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Clare?
The median home value in Clare, MI is $124,800, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Clare?
The median monthly rent in Clare, MI is $792, which is 32% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Clare?
The unemployment rate in Clare, MI is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Clare, MI a good place to live?
Clare offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,341 and a median age of 43.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Clare, MI?
18.9% of residents in Clare 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 Clare?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Clare, MI: median home value is $124,800 (49% below national), median rent is $792/month, and median household income is $43,105. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Clare?
The poverty rate in Clare, MI is 19.1%, 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 Clare, MI?
Clare's population is 2.8% White, 3.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, and 0.5% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.