Howard City, MI
Population 1,683 · Michigan
About Howard City, MI
Howard City is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 1,683 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $52,663 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.6 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 Howard City features a median home value of $143,800, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Howard City one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $708, 39% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 754 total housing units, 74% are owner-occupied (526 units) and 26% are renter-occupied (189 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Howard City shows an unemployment rate of 2.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 19.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Howard City have an average one-way commute time of 30.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.0% of Howard City 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 1.1% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, and 2.9% Asian residents, with 1.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Howard City, MI
Compared to national averages, Howard City has a median household income of $52,663 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $143,800, which is 41% below the national median. Monthly rent at $708 is 39% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Howard City's income is 20% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 22% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Howard City, MI?
Howard City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $143,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $708/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.0%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,663) that falls below the national average. However, Howard City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Howard City has a population of 1,683 with a median age of 32.6 years. Compare Howard City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Howard City
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wacousta | 1,686 | $126,471 | $271,200 | Compare |
| Sylvan Lake | 1,672 | $106,806 | $356,800 | Compare |
| Zilwaukee | 1,696 | $57,449 | $87,900 | Compare |
| Tawas City | 1,654 | $46,797 | $124,000 | Compare |
| Bingham Farms | 1,652 | $218,750 | $570,900 | Compare |
| Morrice | 1,647 | $63,611 | $114,900 | Compare |
| Laingsburg | 1,640 | $75,547 | $202,600 | Compare |
| Grayling | 1,638 | $31,719 | $131,800 | 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 Howard City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Howard City
What is the population of Howard City, MI?
The population of Howard City, MI is 1,683 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 Howard City?
The median household income in Howard City, MI is $52,663 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Howard City?
The median home value in Howard City, MI is $143,800, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Howard City?
The median monthly rent in Howard City, MI is $708, which is 39% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Howard City?
The unemployment rate in Howard City, MI is 2.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Howard City, MI a good place to live?
Howard City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,683 and a median age of 32.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Howard City, MI?
8.0% of residents in Howard City 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 Howard City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Howard City, MI: median home value is $143,800 (41% below national), median rent is $708/month, and median household income is $52,663. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Howard City?
The poverty rate in Howard City, MI is 19.9%, 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 Howard City, MI?
Howard City's population is 1.1% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, 2.9% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 1.8% of residents are foreign-born.