East Lansing, MI
Population 45,394 · Michigan
About East Lansing, MI
East Lansing is a mid-sized city in Michigan with a population of 45,394 residents. The median household income is $43,547 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in East Lansing is 21.3 years.
Housing in East Lansing has a median home value of $251,600 and median monthly rent of $1,122. Of the 15,693 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 5,406 owner-occupied and 8,508 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in East Lansing is 6.9% and the poverty rate is 34.1%. 67.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 16.8 minutes.
How East Lansing Ranks in Michigan
Cost of Living in East Lansing, MI
Compared to national averages, East Lansing has a median household income of $43,547 (42% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $251,600, which is 3% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,122 is 4% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, East Lansing's income is 34% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 37% above the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in East Lansing, MI?
East Lansing offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,122/month, and a well-educated community where 67.4% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 16.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($43,547) that falls below the national average. However, East Lansing’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
East Lansing has a population of 45,394 with a median age of 21.3 years. Compare East Lansing with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near East Lansing
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saginaw | 43,879 | $37,298 | $54,000 | Compare |
| Roseville | 47,240 | $61,222 | $142,700 | Compare |
| Midland | 42,461 | $74,906 | $192,400 | Compare |
| Portage | 49,015 | $79,529 | $243,400 | Compare |
| Lincoln Park | 39,511 | $57,183 | $117,400 | Compare |
| Battle Creek | 52,392 | $51,699 | $127,600 | Compare |
| Muskegon | 37,203 | $46,342 | $121,800 | Compare |
| Kentwood | 54,114 | $73,647 | $249,000 | 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 East Lansing
What is the population of East Lansing, MI?
The population of East Lansing, MI is 45,394 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in East Lansing?
The median household income in East Lansing, MI is $43,547 per year.
What is the median home value in East Lansing?
The median home value in East Lansing, MI is $251,600.
What is the average rent in East Lansing?
The median monthly rent in East Lansing, MI is $1,122.
What is the unemployment rate in East Lansing?
The unemployment rate in East Lansing, MI is 6.9%.