Grayling, MI
Population 1,638 · Michigan
About Grayling, MI
Grayling is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 1,638 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $31,719 per year, which is 58% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.8 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Grayling features a median home value of $131,800, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Grayling one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $879, 24% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 798 total housing units, 45% are owner-occupied (322 units) and 55% are renter-occupied (387 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Grayling shows an unemployment rate of 6.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 25.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Grayling have an average one-way commute time of 20.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.8% of Grayling 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 2.4% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 3.7% Asian residents, with 2.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Grayling, MI
Compared to national averages, Grayling has a median household income of $31,719 (58% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $131,800, which is 46% below the national median. Monthly rent at $879 is 24% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Grayling's income is 52% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 28% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Grayling, MI?
Grayling offers affordable housing with a median home value of $131,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $879/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($31,719) that falls below the national average. However, Grayling’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Grayling has a population of 1,638 with a median age of 41.8 years. Compare Grayling with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Grayling
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Pigeon | 1,637 | $44,063 | $143,100 | Compare |
| Laingsburg | 1,640 | $75,547 | $202,600 | Compare |
| Olivet | 1,633 | $44,940 | $137,300 | Compare |
| Morrice | 1,647 | $63,611 | $114,900 | Compare |
| Bingham Farms | 1,652 | $218,750 | $570,900 | Compare |
| Tawas City | 1,654 | $46,797 | $124,000 | Compare |
| Standish | 1,616 | $35,114 | $86,000 | Compare |
| Sylvan Lake | 1,672 | $106,806 | $356,800 | 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 Grayling With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Grayling
What is the population of Grayling, MI?
The population of Grayling, MI is 1,638 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 Grayling?
The median household income in Grayling, MI is $31,719 per year, which is 58% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Grayling?
The median home value in Grayling, MI is $131,800, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Grayling?
The median monthly rent in Grayling, MI is $879, which is 24% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Grayling?
The unemployment rate in Grayling, MI is 6.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Grayling, MI a good place to live?
Grayling offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,638 and a median age of 41.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Grayling, MI?
15.8% of residents in Grayling 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 Grayling?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Grayling, MI: median home value is $131,800 (46% below national), median rent is $879/month, and median household income is $31,719. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.2x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Grayling?
The poverty rate in Grayling, MI is 25.7%, 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 Grayling, MI?
Grayling's population is 2.4% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 3.7% Asian, and 0.9% two or more races. 2.8% of residents are foreign-born.