Jackson, MI
Population 31,206 · Michigan
About Jackson, MI
Jackson is a mid-sized city located in Michigan with a population of 31,206 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $42,848 per year, which is 43% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.9 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 Jackson features a median home value of $94,700, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Jackson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $874, 25% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 14,811 total housing units, 54% are owner-occupied (7,073 units) and 46% are renter-occupied (6,051 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Jackson shows an unemployment rate of 10.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 25.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Jackson have an average one-way commute time of 16.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
15.3% of Jackson 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 4.7% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, and 0.5% Asian residents, with 2.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Jackson Ranks in Michigan
Cost of Living in Jackson, MI
Compared to national averages, Jackson has a median household income of $42,848 (43% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $94,700, which is 61% below the national median. Monthly rent at $874 is 25% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Jackson's income is 35% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 48% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Jackson, MI?
Jackson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $94,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $874/month, and short commute times averaging just 16.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($42,848) that falls below the national average. However, Jackson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Jackson has a population of 31,206 with a median age of 34.9 years. Compare Jackson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Jackson
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bay City | 32,445 | $47,904 | $89,900 | Compare |
| Southgate | 29,551 | $64,635 | $165,400 | Compare |
| Burton | 29,529 | $57,767 | $131,200 | Compare |
| Oak Park | 29,370 | $65,882 | $198,500 | Compare |
| Port Huron | 28,724 | $49,377 | $136,000 | Compare |
| Forest Hills | 28,494 | $156,618 | $474,800 | Compare |
| Madison Heights | 28,411 | $66,726 | $190,300 | Compare |
| Eastpointe | 34,003 | $58,196 | $129,100 | 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 Jackson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Jackson
What is the population of Jackson, MI?
The population of Jackson, MI is 31,206 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 Jackson?
The median household income in Jackson, MI is $42,848 per year, which is 43% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Jackson?
The median home value in Jackson, MI is $94,700, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Jackson?
The median monthly rent in Jackson, MI is $874, which is 25% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Jackson?
The unemployment rate in Jackson, MI is 10.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Jackson, MI a good place to live?
Jackson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 31,206 and a median age of 34.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Jackson, MI?
15.3% of residents in Jackson 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 Jackson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Jackson, MI: median home value is $94,700 (61% below national), median rent is $874/month, and median household income is $42,848. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Jackson?
The poverty rate in Jackson, MI is 25.5%, 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 Jackson, MI?
Jackson's population is 4.7% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 20.7% two or more races. 2.0% of residents are foreign-born.