Galien, MI
Population 519 · Michigan
About Galien, MI
Galien is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 519 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $51,458 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.9 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 Galien features a median home value of $126,300, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Galien one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $993, 15% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 220 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (147 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (64 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Galien shows an unemployment rate of 7.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Galien have an average one-way commute time of 27.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.2% of Galien 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 1.2% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Galien, MI
Compared to national averages, Galien has a median household income of $51,458 (32% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $126,300, which is 48% below the national median. Monthly rent at $993 is 15% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Galien's income is 22% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 31% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Galien, MI?
Galien offers affordable housing with a median home value of $126,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $993/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($51,458) that falls below the national average. However, Galien’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Galien has a population of 519 with a median age of 31.9 years. Compare Galien with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Galien
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kaleva | 520 | $43,333 | $88,500 | Compare |
| South Boardman | 521 | $80,781 | $182,700 | Compare |
| Atlantic Mine | 513 | $47,361 | $90,000 | Compare |
| Peck | 525 | $52,204 | $101,200 | Compare |
| Pewamo | 511 | $76,250 | $179,500 | Compare |
| Mecosta | 509 | $70,069 | $92,200 | Compare |
| Republic | 530 | $41,136 | $60,700 | Compare |
| Thompsonville | 508 | $62,083 | $100,700 | 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 Galien With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Galien
What is the population of Galien, MI?
The population of Galien, MI is 519 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 Galien?
The median household income in Galien, MI is $51,458 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Galien?
The median home value in Galien, MI is $126,300, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Galien?
The median monthly rent in Galien, MI is $993, which is 15% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Galien?
The unemployment rate in Galien, MI is 7.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Galien, MI a good place to live?
Galien offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 519 and a median age of 31.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Galien, MI?
12.2% of residents in Galien 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 Galien?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Galien, MI: median home value is $126,300 (48% below national), median rent is $993/month, and median household income is $51,458. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Galien?
The poverty rate in Galien, MI is 17.7%, 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 Galien, MI?
Galien's population is 1.2% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.7% of residents are foreign-born.