Houghton Lake, MI
Population 5,761 · Michigan
About Houghton Lake, MI
Houghton Lake is a small community in Michigan with a population of 5,761 residents. The median household income is $50,861 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Houghton Lake is 54.5 years.
Housing in Houghton Lake has a median home value of $122,800 and median monthly rent of $791. Of the 4,514 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 2,197 owner-occupied and 566 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Houghton Lake is 2.7% and the poverty rate is 21.7%. 17.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 25.3 minutes.
Cost of Living in Houghton Lake, MI
Compared to national averages, Houghton Lake has a median household income of $50,861 (32% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $122,800, which is 50% below the national median. Monthly rent at $791 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Houghton Lake's income is 23% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 33% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Houghton Lake, MI?
Houghton Lake offers affordable housing with a median home value of $122,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $791/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.7%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($50,861) that falls below the national average. However, Houghton Lake’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Houghton Lake has a population of 5,761 with a median age of 54.5 years. Compare Houghton Lake with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Houghton Lake
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zeeland | 5,691 | $49,367 | $248,100 | Compare |
| Richmond | 5,839 | $61,715 | $228,000 | Compare |
| Dowagiac | 5,677 | $38,433 | $110,300 | Compare |
| Petoskey | 5,851 | $71,783 | $319,300 | Compare |
| Swartz Creek | 5,856 | $73,862 | $168,900 | Compare |
| Buena Vista | 5,904 | $38,835 | $51,800 | Compare |
| Dundee | 5,584 | $71,058 | $233,000 | Compare |
| St. Clair | 5,581 | $68,482 | $241,700 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Houghton Lake
What is the population of Houghton Lake, MI?
The population of Houghton Lake, MI is 5,761 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Houghton Lake?
The median household income in Houghton Lake, MI is $50,861 per year.
What is the median home value in Houghton Lake?
The median home value in Houghton Lake, MI is $122,800.
What is the average rent in Houghton Lake?
The median monthly rent in Houghton Lake, MI is $791.
What is the unemployment rate in Houghton Lake?
The unemployment rate in Houghton Lake, MI is 2.7%.