Ishpeming, MI
Population 6,173 · Michigan
About Ishpeming, MI
Ishpeming is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 6,173 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $52,717 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.5 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 Ishpeming features a median home value of $109,200, which is 55% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Ishpeming one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $688, 41% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,857 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (1,767 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (721 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ishpeming shows an unemployment rate of 8.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Ishpeming have an average one-way commute time of 18.9 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
26.3% of Ishpeming residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.8% White, 3.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 1.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ishpeming, MI
Compared to national averages, Ishpeming has a median household income of $52,717 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $109,200, which is 55% below the national median. Monthly rent at $688 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Ishpeming's income is 20% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 40% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Ishpeming, MI?
Ishpeming offers affordable housing with a median home value of $109,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $688/month, and short commute times averaging just 18.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,717) that falls below the national average. However, Ishpeming’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ishpeming has a population of 6,173 with a median age of 35.5 years. Compare Ishpeming with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Ishpeming
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Fenton | 6,168 | $112,676 | $372,800 | Compare |
| Rockford | 6,162 | $100,156 | $294,800 | Compare |
| Northville | 6,080 | $143,875 | $455,100 | Compare |
| Manistee | 6,275 | $59,315 | $144,400 | Compare |
| Milan | 6,070 | $93,016 | $233,700 | Compare |
| Huntington Woods | 6,322 | $188,229 | $470,600 | Compare |
| New Haven | 6,341 | $68,203 | $207,600 | Compare |
| Holly | 5,971 | $61,221 | $174,900 | 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 Ishpeming With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Ishpeming
What is the population of Ishpeming, MI?
The population of Ishpeming, MI is 6,173 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 Ishpeming?
The median household income in Ishpeming, MI is $52,717 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ishpeming?
The median home value in Ishpeming, MI is $109,200, which is 55% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Ishpeming?
The median monthly rent in Ishpeming, MI is $688, which is 41% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ishpeming?
The unemployment rate in Ishpeming, MI is 8.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Ishpeming, MI a good place to live?
Ishpeming offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 6,173 and a median age of 35.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Ishpeming, MI?
26.3% of residents in Ishpeming 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 Ishpeming?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ishpeming, MI: median home value is $109,200 (55% below national), median rent is $688/month, and median household income is $52,717. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Ishpeming?
The poverty rate in Ishpeming, MI is 17.5%, 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 Ishpeming, MI?
Ishpeming's population is 0.8% White, 3.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 1.5% of residents are foreign-born.