Fenton, MI
Population 11,950 · Michigan
About Fenton, MI
Fenton is a mid-sized city located in Michigan with a population of 11,950 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $83,077 per year, which is 11% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Fenton features a median home value of $211,700, which is 14% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Fenton in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,323, 14% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,322 total housing units, 65% are owner-occupied (3,346 units) and 35% are renter-occupied (1,768 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Fenton shows an unemployment rate of 8.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 6.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Fenton have an average one-way commute time of 31.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
34.8% of Fenton residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 1.2% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 3.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Fenton, MI
Compared to national averages, Fenton has a median household income of $83,077 (11% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $211,700, which is 14% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,323 is 14% above the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Fenton's income is 26% above the state average of $66,017, and home values are 15% above the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Fenton, MI?
Fenton offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $83,077, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $211,700, below the US average of $244,900, and a well-educated community where 34.8% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 6.3%, better than the national average.
Fenton has a population of 11,950 with a median age of 38.3 years. Compare Fenton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Fenton
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Baltimore | 12,060 | $97,027 | $309,800 | Compare |
| Niles | 11,838 | $47,815 | $115,400 | Compare |
| South Lyon | 11,825 | $83,822 | $280,900 | Compare |
| Riverview | 12,269 | $71,783 | $200,500 | Compare |
| Escanaba | 12,374 | $40,169 | $116,600 | Compare |
| Farmington | 11,472 | $94,115 | $273,000 | Compare |
| East Grand Rapids | 11,394 | $168,487 | $488,500 | Compare |
| Grosse Pointe Park | 11,394 | $121,796 | $460,500 | 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 Fenton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Fenton
What is the population of Fenton, MI?
The population of Fenton, MI is 11,950 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Fenton?
The median household income in Fenton, MI is $83,077 per year, which is 11% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Fenton?
The median home value in Fenton, MI is $211,700, which is 14% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Fenton?
The median monthly rent in Fenton, MI is $1,323, which is 14% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Fenton?
The unemployment rate in Fenton, MI is 8.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Fenton, MI a good place to live?
Fenton offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 11,950 and a median age of 38.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Fenton, MI?
34.8% of residents in Fenton aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Fenton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Fenton, MI: median home value is $211,700 (14% below national), median rent is $1,323/month, and median household income is $83,077. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Fenton?
The poverty rate in Fenton, MI is 6.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Fenton, MI?
Fenton's population is 1.2% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 2.2% two or more races. 3.6% of residents are foreign-born.