Elsie, MI
Population 951 · Michigan
About Elsie, MI
Elsie is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 951 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,000 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42 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 Elsie features a median home value of $107,600, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Elsie one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $692, 40% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 444 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (337 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (83 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Elsie shows an unemployment rate of 25.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Elsie have an average one-way commute time of 30.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
7.6% of Elsie 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, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 0.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Elsie, MI
Compared to national averages, Elsie has a median household income of $55,000 (27% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $107,600, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $692 is 40% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Elsie's income is 17% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 41% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Elsie, MI?
Elsie offers affordable housing with a median home value of $107,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $692/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,000) that falls below the national average. However, Elsie’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Elsie has a population of 951 with a median age of 42 years. Compare Elsie with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Elsie
What is the population of Elsie, MI?
The population of Elsie, MI is 951 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 Elsie?
The median household income in Elsie, MI is $55,000 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Elsie?
The median home value in Elsie, MI is $107,600, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Elsie?
The median monthly rent in Elsie, MI is $692, which is 40% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Elsie?
The unemployment rate in Elsie, MI is 25.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Elsie, MI a good place to live?
Elsie offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 951 and a median age of 42, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Elsie, MI?
7.6% of residents in Elsie 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 Elsie?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Elsie, MI: median home value is $107,600 (56% below national), median rent is $692/month, and median household income is $55,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Elsie?
The poverty rate in Elsie, MI is 13.0%, 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 Elsie, MI?
Elsie's population is 2.8% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 1.1% two or more races. 0.2% of residents are foreign-born.