Decatur, MI
Population 1,814 · Michigan
About Decatur, MI
Decatur is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 1,814 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $58,281 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.5 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 Decatur features a median home value of $121,900, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Decatur one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $779, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 838 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (563 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (179 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Decatur shows an unemployment rate of 6.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 21.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Decatur have an average one-way commute time of 25.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.3% of Decatur 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 6.4% White, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 4.1% Asian residents, with 3.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Decatur, MI
Compared to national averages, Decatur has a median household income of $58,281 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $121,900, which is 50% below the national median. Monthly rent at $779 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Decatur's income is 12% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 34% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Decatur, MI?
Decatur offers affordable housing with a median home value of $121,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $779/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,281) that falls below the national average. However, Decatur’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Decatur has a population of 1,814 with a median age of 34.5 years. Compare Decatur with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Decatur
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Union City | 1,814 | $57,016 | $107,000 | Compare |
| Wakefield | 1,789 | $48,413 | $71,400 | Compare |
| Kingsley | 1,783 | $65,714 | $248,900 | Compare |
| Au Sable | 1,780 | $46,369 | $107,900 | Compare |
| Bessemer | 1,778 | $50,792 | $76,100 | Compare |
| East Jordan | 1,776 | $53,929 | $125,100 | Compare |
| Marlette | 1,771 | $44,375 | $116,900 | Compare |
| St. Charles | 1,857 | $49,816 | $106,300 | 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.
Compare Decatur With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Decatur
What is the population of Decatur, MI?
The population of Decatur, MI is 1,814 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 Decatur?
The median household income in Decatur, MI is $58,281 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Decatur?
The median home value in Decatur, MI is $121,900, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Decatur?
The median monthly rent in Decatur, MI is $779, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Decatur?
The unemployment rate in Decatur, MI is 6.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Decatur, MI a good place to live?
Decatur offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,814 and a median age of 34.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Decatur, MI?
14.3% of residents in Decatur 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 Decatur?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Decatur, MI: median home value is $121,900 (50% below national), median rent is $779/month, and median household income is $58,281. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Decatur?
The poverty rate in Decatur, MI is 21.6%, 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 Decatur, MI?
Decatur's population is 6.4% White, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 4.1% Asian, and 2.7% two or more races. 3.7% of residents are foreign-born.