Inkster, MI
Population 25,602 · Michigan
About Inkster, MI
Inkster is a mid-sized city located in Michigan with a population of 25,602 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $39,632 per year, which is 47% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.4 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 Inkster features a median home value of $75,700, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Inkster one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,127, 3% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 11,497 total housing units, 46% are owner-occupied (4,383 units) and 54% are renter-occupied (5,186 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 Inkster shows an unemployment rate of 12.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 36.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Inkster have an average one-way commute time of 26.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.8% of Inkster 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, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 4.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Inkster Ranks in Michigan
Cost of Living in Inkster, MI
Compared to national averages, Inkster has a median household income of $39,632 (47% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $75,700, which is 69% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,127 is 3% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Inkster's income is 40% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 59% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Inkster, MI?
Inkster offers affordable housing with a median home value of $75,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,127/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($39,632) that falls below the national average. However, Inkster’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Inkster has a population of 25,602 with a median age of 34.4 years. Compare Inkster with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Inkster
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Okemos | 25,503 | $97,603 | $336,800 | Compare |
| Allendale | 25,741 | $68,449 | $287,600 | Compare |
| Holt | 25,275 | $87,827 | $213,200 | Compare |
| Walker | 25,201 | $73,835 | $266,400 | Compare |
| Norton Shores | 25,000 | $73,390 | $214,000 | Compare |
| Romulus | 24,951 | $72,235 | $149,100 | Compare |
| Auburn Hills | 24,911 | $78,727 | $233,900 | Compare |
| Wyandotte | 24,593 | $67,846 | $159,700 | 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 Inkster With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Inkster
What is the population of Inkster, MI?
The population of Inkster, MI is 25,602 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 Inkster?
The median household income in Inkster, MI is $39,632 per year, which is 47% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Inkster?
The median home value in Inkster, MI is $75,700, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Inkster?
The median monthly rent in Inkster, MI is $1,127, which is 3% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Inkster?
The unemployment rate in Inkster, MI is 12.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Inkster, MI a good place to live?
Inkster offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 25,602 and a median age of 34.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Inkster, MI?
11.8% of residents in Inkster 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 Inkster?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Inkster, MI: median home value is $75,700 (69% below national), median rent is $1,127/month, and median household income is $39,632. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Inkster?
The poverty rate in Inkster, MI is 36.3%, 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 Inkster, MI?
Inkster's population is 1.2% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 72.3% two or more races. 4.9% of residents are foreign-born.